RWS88 : The memories

On 30th Jan 2010, SMRT Buses introduced RWS88. It was introduced in support of the Government's effort to make public transport the preferred mode to visit Resorts World Sentosa (RWS).

There were two other RWS shuttle services, RWS8 and RWS68 planned. Only RWS8 went into operation.

• RWS8 which operates between Habourfront and RWS. It is still in operation.

RWS8 when first introduced in 09 Jan 2010

RWS8 with the current signage indicating Resorts World Sentosa.

• RWS68, which was planned to be between Outram Park and RWS. The service never materialised.

RWS68, which was never introduced.

Photographed RWS88 on the second last day of operations.

Resorts World Sentosa signage.

City Hall (Loop) signage.

RWS88 rear signage.

A sign directing commuters boarding RWS88 to The Adelphi Lifestyle Mall bus stop

It was withdrawn due to low demand on 26th Dec 2010, which seemingly scrapped the plans of introducing RWS68.

Resort Worlds Sentosa to stop free shuttles immediately: Governmment

This afternoon, the Casino Regulatory Authority issued directives to stop the heartland shuttles with immediate effect.

A Yutong coach operating on a free Choa Chu Kang/Bukit Panjang - RWS shuttle.

The Ministry of Community Development, Youth and Sports (MCYS) announced on Wednesday that they are investigating the free shuttles possibly enticing Singaporeans to gamble in the casinos. Resorts World Sentosa responded with a notice of termination of their free shuttle services by Sunday night. But with the directive in efffect, the service is now terminated earlier than expected without any advance notifications.

The sudden termination today suprised many visitors to RWS. According to a news site, many were caught off guard and upset that they had to find alternatives transport means.

Demand was still strong today as the directives came into effect, with a long queue formed up at one of the many pick up point opposite Tiong Bahru Plaza. Impact will be mostly felt by the private bus operators which have bought several buses to cater for the substantial passenger load, and with the sudden termination, many drivers and buses are suddenly left out in the cold.