HCM CITY — The HCM City Department of Construction and the Public Transport Management Centre has hosted a ceremony to honour 30 outstanding bus drivers and staff as part of efforts to promote service quality and accelerate digital transformation in the city’s public transport sector.

Under the theme 'Gratitude for companionship – smart connection', the event recognised frontline workers for their professionalism, dedication and contributions to a safer, friendlier and more efficient public transport system. Award recipients were praised for their safe driving, punctuality, good deeds and exemplary service, especially in supporting elderly and disadvantaged passengers.

The programme is part of the 2025 communications campaign to modernise public transport and promote digital payment adoption across HCM City. At the event, officials also launched a new emulation campaign titled 'Chạm đều tay – Rinh ngay giải về' (Touch evenly – Win prizes immediately), encouraging drivers and staff to support passengers in using contactless payment methods and improve service standards.

Bus drivers and service staff will be assessed through a set of criteria that includes compliance with traffic laws, passenger safety, on-time performance and contributions to community safety and customer support. Staff on routes with high volumes of cashless transactions — recorded via POS devices — will be eligible for weekly and monthly awards.

Speaking at the event, representatives from the Department of Construction said the initiative aligns with HCM City’s broader goal of building a modern, smart and people-centric public transport network. The city’s bus system is being gradually upgraded with cashless payment capabilities and will integrate with other modes of transport, such as metro lines, water buses and public bicycles.

By honouring drivers and frontline staff, the city hopes to strengthen public confidence, promote positive behaviour and enhance the image of public transport as a safe and reliable choice in daily urban mobility.

The programme reflects the city’s commitment to digital transformation, service excellence and inclusive development as it moves toward becoming a smart, sustainable metropolis. — VNS