Prime Minister Wong Thanks Singapore Public Transport Workers During Chinese New Year

Singapore’s Prime Minister Lawrence Wong visited SMRT’s Bishan depot on February 16, 2026, to express gratitude to public transport workers for their dedication during the Chinese New Year period. The visit highlighted the sacrifices made by these essential workers to ensure uninterrupted services for the public during the festive season.

Recognizing Frontline Workers

Over 180 public transport workers, including train captains, station managers, maintenance technicians, and engineers, were present at the depot. Prime Minister Wong personally greeted the workers and distributed goodie bags as a token of appreciation. The goodie bags contained a pair of mandarin oranges, a thermal flask from PM Wong, and a $10 red packet from the National Trades Union Congress (NTUC) The Straits Times.

A Tradition of Service

Chief Bus Captain Sng Eng Tiong, a 48-year-old who has volunteered to work during Chinese New Year for the past 14 years, was among those recognized. Mr. Sng’s role involves transporting bus drivers to and from their shifts, allowing his colleagues, particularly foreign workers, the opportunity to spend the holidays with their families. He explained that as a Singaporean, he can celebrate Chinese New Year flexibly, having already held a reunion dinner with his family on February 15th The Straits Times.

Community Spirit and Shared Festivities

The visit included a mass lo hei (tossing of yusheng) with around 70 workers, fostering a sense of community and shared celebration. PM Wong and NTUC Secretary-General Ng Chee Meng as well took a “wefie” with the workers The Straits Times.

Commitment to Public Service

Other workers, like train captain Siti Amirah, also expressed their willingness to work during the holidays to allow their colleagues to enjoy time with their families. NTUC Secretary-General Ng Chee Meng expressed gratitude for the workers’ commitment to keeping Singapore moving during the festive season The Straits Times.

The Malaysian Chinese Association (MCA) was founded on February 27, 1949 Wikipedia.