Union calls for public transport workers to get better wages, bonuses following fare hikes

SINGAPORE: Higher public transport fares should translate into better wages, annual increments and bonuses for transport workers, the National Transport Workers' Union (NTWU) said on Wednesday (Sep 30).

The union was responding to the Public Transport Council’s (PTC) announcement on Tuesday of fare adjustments that will take effect this year. From Dec 26, public transport fares will rise by 12 to 13 cents per journey for adult card users - a record increase in cash terms.

The council attributed the higher fare formula output to a "substantial increase" in energy prices between July 2025 and June 2026 as a result of the Middle East conflict.

"NTWU believes that when fare adjustments take into account rising costs, including wages and energy costs, the public transport workforce should also share meaningfully in the additional revenue generated," the NTWU said in a Facebook post.

“This should translate into better wages, annual increments, bonuses and improvements in workers’ welfare,” the union said, adding that Singapore must continue investing in the people who deliver the service every day.

The union called on public transport operators and tripartite partners to ensure that the benefits arising from the fare adjustments are shared fairly with workers.

Overall, public transport fares will rise by 7 per cent, higher than last year's 5 per cent increase.

The 7 per cent adjustment will translate into about S$176.9 million more in fare revenue a year. 

The increase in annual revenue for SBS Transit Rail and SMRT Trains is S$26.9 million and S$52.9 million respectively, while fare revenue for bus services and the Thomson-East Coast Line collected by the Land Transport Authority will rise by S$97.1 million to sustain the cost of operations. 

"ZERO TOLERANCE" FOR ABUSE OF WORKERS

NTWU also raised its concerns after hearing about instances of harassment and abusive behaviour directed at transport workers following the fare adjustment announcement, calling such behaviour "unacceptable".

"NTWU has zero tolerance for any form of harassment or abuse against transport workers, regardless of any frustrations over fare increases," the union said.

Transport workers deserve to be treated with respect and dignity as they continue serving commuters every day, it added.