SBS Transit Opens Dedicated Staff Quarters for Bus Captains
First Purpose-Built Residential Facility in Singapore's Public Transport Industry
29 June 2026 - SBS Transit has officially opened Singapore's first purpose-built residential facility for Bus Captains. Located adjacent to the Sengkang West Bus Depot along Seletar West Road 2, the eight-storey facility is known as SQ@Sengkang West.
SQ@Sengkang West marks the first time that the workplace and home have been intentionally brought together by design where close to 200 Bus Captains from China are living just steps away from the depot where they work.
The facility comprises 234 single-bed spread across 39 fully furnished apartments. Each apartment accommodates up to six residents and includes three bedrooms, a shared dining area, kitchen and laundry facilities.
Bedrooms are twin-sharing with air-conditioning, ceiling fans and built-in storage. Kitchens come fully furnished with gas stoves, refrigerators, cookware, crockery and cutlery, while laundry areas include washing machines, dryers and clothing racks.
SBS Transit's Group Chief Executive Officer, Mr Jeffrey Sim, said: "Many of these features were shaped by feedback from our Bus Captains themselves, as we believe that the people who live here are the best people to tell us what makes a place comfortable and welcoming.
"The National Transport Workers' Union, in particular its Executive Secretary, Ms Yeo Wan Ling, also provided many valued and practical inputs to better serve the needs of the residents. This is a testament to the strong tripartite partnership that SBS Transit, the Land Transport Authority and the National Transport Workers' Union share in advancing the well-being and interests of our staff," he added.
Beyond accommodation, SQ@Sengkang West is designed to support rest and well-being while fostering community. Residents can gather in common areas such as a multi-purpose room for games including carrom and table tennis, or unwind in a smart TV lounge. A sick bay with wheelchair access is also available to provide medical support when needed.
Living just next to the depot means almost zero travelling time between home and work for Bus Captains. The time saved can be spent resting, exercising, pursuing hobbies, preparing meals or simply enjoying time with friends and colleagues.
To further enhance the living experience, there will be a grocery delivery service that is operated by the Union, which adds another layer of convenience.
55-year-old Senior Bus Captain Mr Tian Yinfu, who has served with SBS Transit for 17 years, said: "Having a place to stay so close to the depot makes a big difference. With more time and a fully equipped kitchen now, I can prepare my own meals and enjoy familiar food from home. It brings comfort and helps me feel more settled, even though I am thousands of miles away from my family."
SBS Transit has appointed Coliwoo, Singapore's leading co-living operator, to manage and operate SQ@Sengkang West, which was officially opened this afternoon by Ms Yeo Wan Ling, Executive Secretary of the National Transport Workers' Union. This enables SBS Transit to maintain its focus on delivering safe, reliable and dependable public bus services for commuters every day.
