Tower Transit Singapore (TTS), a subsidiary of Australian transport services firm Kelsian, is poised to broaden its operational scope by managing eight commercial bus services on Sentosa, the renowned resort island. This marks a significant diversification for TTS,which has exclusively operated public buses since its inception in 2016.

Key Highlights of the Expansion

• New Contract: TTS will operate eight commercial bus services on Sentosa Island starting Oct. 1.
• Diversification: This venture represents TTS’s first foray into commercial bus operations, expanding beyond its public bus service history.
• Additional Responsibilities: The agreement includes managing the Sentosa Beach Shuttle and maintaining over 40 vehicles for the Sentosa Development Corporation (SDC).
• Financial Projections: The five-year contract is projected to generate approximately A$27 million (S$22.4 million), excluding revenue from the beach shuttle service.
• Contract extension: SDC retains the option to extend the contract for an additional five years.

Service Details

The eight bus services managed by TTS will include:

• Five routes dedicated to SDC employees.
• Three complimentary guest bus routes (A, B, and D) operating across the island.

Specific routes include:

• Bus A: Connects Beach Station, Siloso Point, and resorts World Sentosa.
• Bus B: Links Beach Station and Sentosa cove.
• Bus D: Operates between Beach Station and VivoCity shopping complex.

Fleet and Infrastructure

TTS will oversee the maintenance of more than 40 vehicles,including 14 electric buses and 10 electric trams. Notably, the contract is “capital light,” as all vehicles, garaging, and maintenance facilities are owned and provided by SDC.

Operational Timeline

TTS will assume responsibility for bus and maintenance services on Oct. 1. The operation of the Sentosa Beach Shuttle, which runs a circular route with 18 stops at 10- to 15-minute intervals, will commence on Jan. 1, 2026.

Executive Perspective

Mr. Winston Toh, managing director of TTS, emphasized the meaning of this expansion: This is a milestone for TTS as it is our first foray into commercial bus operations. He further added, We will build on our experience as a public bus operator to deliver bus rides that are enjoyable, smooth, safe and that live up to Sentosa’s reputation as a world-class leisure destination.

Transition from Current Operators

Currently, transport services on Sentosa Island are managed by ComfortDelGro Bus, with vehicle maintenance handled by Strides Premier Automotive Services. An SDC spokesperson confirmed that these contracts, which began on July 1, 2020, will conclude on Sept. 30.