How a Lost Lottery Ticket Became the Sweetest Surprise in Singapore
A Bus, a Ticket, and an Unexpected Hero
Picture this: a crowded bus, a struggling student named Bryan Lee, and a pristine 4‑D ticket that no one wanted to touch. Bryan thought the ticket was just another bit of litter, destined for the bin. But a quick glance revealed it was spotless—no creases, no stains. What started as a mundane moment turned into a heart‑warming story of kindness.
The Ticket That Was More Than Just Paper
It turns out the winning ticket had a story that went back a month. Mr. Neo Hock Wah, a 55‑year‑old storekeeper, and his wife had bought the number “1989” for $10 on November 7 after a dreams‑inspired sprint to the shop. They rarely splurged on 4‑D numbers, making this purchase a rare moment of excitement.
On the evening of November 7, Neo’s wife climbed a bus, headed for Yishun and dinner with their son. While alighting at 6 p.m., she dropped her wallet and the ticket probably slipped out, unseen. The next afternoon, after the lottery draw announced winners, the couple celebrated to discover they had won $2,500 – but the physical ticket was gone.
When Hope Faltered
After trying to redeem the prize with a photo and shop footage, the polite couple hit a wall: Singapore Pools didn’t accept the proof. Desperate and sleepless, they turned to friends, who suggested Lianhe Wanbao and the local charity Stomp for help.
Enter the Hero
Coincidentally, on the same day and bus, Bryan Lee saw the Wanbao article. He reached out to the reporter, who bridged the gap between him and Neo’s wife. They met on November 19 at a Burger King in Woodlands.
“My priority was to find the owner,” Bryan told the press. “Just because I could claim the prize didn’t mean it was the right thing to do.” He admitted seeing how sleepless the wife had been, worried about the missing ticket, and felt genuinely thrilled to shed a little light in that dark moment.
A Humble Reward and a Vision for the Future
Grateful, the couple offered Bryan a red packet of $200 as a thank‑you. Bryan initially declined—deflecting the temptation to keep the money—until he accepted it after the couple’s persistence. The storekeeper expressed immense gratitude, telling Bryan that the ticket had been his and that the gesture was pure goodwill.
In a touching interview, Bryan said, “I don’t see this as an act to brag about. Returning a lost item is exactly what I believe everyone should do.” He plans to donate the $200 to a charity he supports.
Why This Story Matters
- It showcases how ordinary kindness can create extraordinary moments.
- The narrative reminds us that sometimes the greatest prize is helping someone else.
- It bridges the gap between a fleeting bus stop and a lifelong family relief.
So, next time you’re on a bus, keep an eye out. You might just find a ticket that’s a bit more valuable than you bargained for.
Originally published in The Straits Times. Permission required for reproduction.
