(see: http://sgratrace.appspot
If we assume that the bus captain is the sole breadwinner of the family, the maximum income of $3,500 still places the household in the bottom 20% income group. In comparison, the average monthly household income of the 2nd decile and 3rd decile are $2,985 and $4,290 respectively.
Furthermore, if we assume a household of 4 persons (2 children), the average monthly household income per household member is also in the bottom 20% ($3,500 / 4 = $875). In comparison, the average monthly household income per household member of the 2nd decile and 3rd decile are $780 and $1,080 respectively.
It is sad to see that the average Singaporean bus driver, if he/she is the sole breadwinner and after all the overtime and performance incentives, can only look forward to a maximum income that still places his/her household in the bottom 20% income group.
Is this progressive? In May last year, SMRT announced an upward revision of the basic monthly pay of its Singaporean bus drivers by 35 per cent to S$1,625, which the company said would enable them to take home an average of about S$2,500 each month after factoring in overtime, allowances and incentives.
What about the current wage adjustment?
What is the base salary now?
Only if SMRT reveals the current base salary and other remuneration details, can we do a fair analysis.