SINGAPORE: Two SMRT bus captains became real-life heroes this year — not in a movie, but right here on our roads. At the recently held Singapore Road Safety Council (SRSC) Fundraising Gala Dinner 2025, Senior Bus Captain Ngui Poh Seng and Bus Captain Yau Minddin Muhamad were honoured with the first-ever SRSC Commendation Award for their brave actions when they helped put out a vehicle fire on August 17, 2025.
Mr Ngui and Mr Yau chose to act when many others might have panicked or stayed back. They rushed to assist, keeping calm under pressure and helping to keep others safe. Ultimately, their quick thinking could have made all the difference that day.
The awards were presented by Senior Minister of State for Foreign Affairs and Home Affairs, Ms Sim Ann, who attended the event as Guest-of-Honour. It was a proud moment not just for the two captains but for the whole SMRT family as a whole; it was a reminder that courage and care are at the heart of what keeps our city running safely.
Adding to the celebration, SMRT Buses was also recognised as a Gold Donor at the event, with Mr Tan Peng Kuan, President of STRIDES, receiving the token of appreciation. The recognition puts emphasis on SMRT’s ongoing commitment to road safety education and its efforts to make Singapore’s roads safer for everyone.
Why this matters to Singapore and everyday commuters
If you’ve ever taken the bus to work or school, you’ll know how much we rely on bus captains to get us to our destinations safely, regardless of whether it’s raining or shining, or if it’s early in the morning or late in the evening. Behind every smooth journey are people like Mr Ngui and Mr Yau, who do more than just drive; they look out for their passengers and for others on the road.
Stories like this are a good reminder that safety isn’t just about strict rules or fancy technology, but it’s really about the people behind the wheel and those working quietly behind the scenes to keep everything running smoothly.
For many Singaporeans, taking the bus is just part of daily life because it serves as a ride to work, school, or home after a long day, but knowing that there are bus captains like Mr Ngui and Mr Yau may give commuters a real sense of comfort and trust.
SMRT’s recognition as a Gold Donor at the gala also shows that their commitment to safety doesn’t stop with their own buses. They’re helping to build a stronger, safer road culture across Singapore that benefits every road user, whether they’re behind the wheel, on a bike, or simply crossing the street.
