Express Bus Tickets To Be Sold Exclusively Through APAD-Licensed Terminals Starting 1 November 2026

Starting on November 1, 2026, the Land Public Transport Agency (APAD) will limit express bus ticket sales exclusively to licensed terminals. The agency announced this directive last week on October 16 via a circular to bus operators. Express bus terminals will have sole rights over ticket sales for their services, and a new commercial fee structure will be implemented.

Consequently, express bus terminals will be entirely responsible for trip management, departures, and sales transactions. Moreover, commercial fees for digital platform services will be charged to the operators, not the passengers. Bus operators, however, expressed concerns as no discussions were held with them before the ruling.

Many operators had developed their own platforms for ticket sales. Despite this, passengers can still purchase tickets via online travel agencies (OTAs), bus operator websites, and terminals, provided the terminals are owned by the operators. Transport Minister Anthony Loke explained that the policy targets overseas OTAs that receive commissions but do not offer any services at terminals.

He also noted that the government had set a cap on terminal operator charges and assured that bus companies will not face losses under the new directive. The government plans to hold engagement sessions with industry players to clarify the move.