Lawmaker calls for upgrades to bus app to improve accuracy and coverage

Nearly a decade after its launch, the “Bus Traveling System” mobile application still lacks full coverage of passenger occupancy data and faces accuracy issues, according to a written inquiry by legislator Leong Pou U.

The app was first introduced as a trial version in July 2016, providing real-time bus arrival information to help residents and tourists plan their journeys. Over time, the government has added functions such as occupancy indicators for selected buses, travel time estimates across the three Macau-Taipa bridges, and traffic updates for key roads.

As of December 31, 2025, the app had been downloaded more than 2.86 million times, Leong noted.

However, he said significant room for improvement remains. Of Macau’s 1,010 public buses, only 348 – about 34.5% – are equipped with passenger occupancy estimation systems. He also said the accuracy of the data is still insufficient for reliable use.

Leong asked whether the government has a concrete timeline for full installation of the system across all buses, as previously indicated by the Transport and Public Works Bureau. He also questioned what measures will be taken to improve accuracy so passengers can better assess crowding levels and choose alternative routes when necessary.

The legislator also raised concerns about inconsistencies in the app’s road congestion feature, noting that the same road at the same time may display different congestion levels depending on the bus route. He asked what steps would be taken to improve consistency and reliability.

In addition, Leong suggested the government consider adding estimated arrival times for each bus at every stop to help residents better plan their travel.

In response, Transport Bureau (DSAT) director Chiang Ngoc Vai said the bureau will continue expanding the passenger occupancy system and upgrading equipment through coordination with the two bus operators under existing service contracts.

He added that the congestion feature and arrival time functions will be improved through the restructuring of the 14-year-old Public Bus Management System, with upgrades to its technical framework. The bureau will also advance digitalization of the transport system and enhance the mobile app’s functionality to improve user experience.

Chiang’s reply, issued under instructions from Chief Executive Sam Hou Fai, responded to the inquiry submitted on March 14 and received by the Chief Executive’s Office on March 20.

The DSAT reaffirmed that improving data accuracy and helping passengers make better-informed travel decisions remain key priorities in the ongoing system upgrade.