Stomper praises 'exceptionally kind' SBS Transit bus captain who helped commuters with payment issues
A bus captain went above and beyond for his passengers, leaving one of them deeply touched.
Stomper Jun Jie wrote in to Stomp to share his appreciation for the SBS Transit bus captain of bus service 59 after an encounter on Nov 18.
Jun Jie had boarded the double-decker bus (SG6176A) outside Tampines West Station Exit B at around 10.18am. However, his payment did not work "for reasons he could not explain".
"Instead of rushing me or showing frustration, the bus captain — a Chinese gentleman, slim build, short crew-cut and wearing sunglasses — was extremely patient and understanding," the Stomper recounted.
"He kindly explained that I could try using other bank cards as cash payment would be slightly more expensive, and he also took the time to explain the distance to my stop, so I would know the correct fare. His tone was calm, reassuring, and genuinely helpful.
"After I was seated, I witnessed another passenger whose card had also failed. She walked to the back of the bus to look for someone who might lend her cash.
"Before she found anyone, the bus captain took money from his own pocket and paid the fare on her behalf, reassuring her that such things happen to anyone. The passenger later managed to get cash and tried to return it, though I am unsure whether he accepted it. Nevertheless, the sincerity of his gesture deeply touched me."
Praising the bus captain for "his exceptional kindness and professionalism", Jun Jie added: "This was far beyond his duties and it really stood out to me.
"In today's fast-paced world, where people are often in a hurry, seeing someone show such empathy, patience, and generosity was incredibly heartwarming. He made a difference not just to one passenger, but to everyone who witnessed his actions — including me.
"I hope that this wonderful bus captain can be formally recognised for embodying the true spirit of service and compassion. He is a shining example of the values we hope to see in our public transport system, and I am grateful to have crossed paths with him."
Jun Jie hopes his commendation can reach the bus captain.
His story is a contrast to two earlier Stomp articles in which parents complained about bus captains lacking compassion. One alleged his 11-year-old son was told to get off the bus as he did not have enough for his fare, while another claimed her 12-year-old daughter was told to 'get out' over an EZ-Link card error.
In response, a third Stomper spoke up for bus captains and shared her positive experiences with them.
