Budget 2027: RM1,000 aid to help school bus drivers weather holiday income slump

School bus operators have welcomed the government’s RM1,000 special financial assistance, saying it will help drivers manage reduced earnings during school holidays. — Bernama pic

First Published: Saturday, 07 Nov 2026 12:36 PM MYT

JOHOR BAHRU, Nov 7 — The special financial assistance of RM1,000 for school bus drivers, announced in the Budget 2027, is considered timely particularly in helping them navigate cash flow challenges when the school term ends.

Dr M. Muruga, president of the Malaysian School Bus Operators and Drivers Association, said the aid is highly significant, given that school bus fare collections typically take a temporary hit during school holidays.

Dr. Muruga, who also serves as the chairman of the Johor State School Bus Operators and Drivers Association, added that the assistance serves as a meaningful recognition for school bus drivers, who have long hoped for specific attention and support from the government.

“This is a form of recognition from the government, and we are very proud that, after such a long time, the welfare of school bus drivers has finally received attention through the Budget 2027,” he said when contacted by Bernama.

According to him, the coalition has over 3,000 registered school bus driver members nationwide, 60 per cent of whom are women.

At the same time, he urged drivers who have not yet registered to join the association in their respective states, ensuring they do not miss out on any information or assistance initiatives.

Meanwhile, Mohd Suhaimi Saidi, chairman of a coalition representing three Johor Bahru–Singapore cross-border taxi associations, noted that the assistance would help ease the financial burden on taxi drivers, especially amidst a challenging economic climate and rising costs of living.

He added that the grant is also highly significant for taxi drivers, helping them cover vehicle maintenance costs as well as daily living expenses.

“This is a godsend for us, as taxi drivers are also facing threats from e-hailing services.

“This assistance goes a long way in easing their burden, especially since it is being provided just ahead of the Deepavali festival,” he said, noting that the association has a total of 189 members.

The government is distributing a one-off special financial aid of RM1,000 to 38,000 taxi drivers including those operating rental cars as well as 15,000 school bus drivers nationwide, funded by proceeds from the sale of special ‘H’ series vehicle registration numbers.

While tabling the Budget 2027, Anwar said this aid is being provided as part of an effort to return such revenue to the people. — Bernama