Yah Lah But #727: Less Than 1/3 of Bus Captains are S’poreans & Thousands Sign Pickleball Petition
Oct 13, 2025
The discussion kicks off with the alarming statistic that less than a third of bus captains are Singaporeans, raising concerns about recruitment challenges. The hosts explore potential solutions, such as flexible work hours and improving the profession's image. Moving on, a lively petition to extend pickleball court hours garners attention, with over 1,500 signatures highlighting its growing popularity. They delve into the appeal of pickleball and discuss noise concerns, proposing quieter equipment as a viable compromise for urban environments.
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How Bus Contracting Shapes Costs
- Understand that the bus contracting model separates asset ownership (LTA) from operators and sets fares centrally.
- Accept that raising driver pay requires clear communication that fare increases directly fund higher salaries.
Stigma Can Become A Self-Fulfilling Barrier
- The narrative that "Singaporeans won't do bus jobs" can become a self-fulfilling stigma that deters applicants.
- Reframing the role and highlighting pride and perks may attract candidates who value stability and service.
A Bus Captain's Typical Day
- Haresh described a "day in the life" style video showing a bus captain's early start, cafeteria, and a finish around mid-afternoon.
- The captain highlighted fixed hours, pride, incentives, and improved family time compared to F&B work.