MTR also operates Crossrail in the UK, and a number of subway
lines in Beijing, Shenzhen and Hangzhou. I agree that MTR is an
experienced operator.
In Hong Kong, MTR focuses mainly on rail operations, while bus
services are mostly covered by bus operators KMB, Citybus and NWFB.
(There are also public light buses, also known as minibuses.) Since
MTR, buses and minibuses are competitors, it's common to see direct
bus services and minibus services running parallel to MTR lines,
providing commuters with multiple fast and direct options to travel
from A to B. In the rare event when MTR breaks down, commuters can
easily take buses and minibuses.
In Singapore, transport operators run both rail and bus
operations, and because of that, whenever a new MRT line opens, bus
services are "rationalized" to force commuters onto the MRT lines.
When the MRT breaks down, commuters are stuck because most bus
services are short services or winding services meant to bring
commuters to MRT stations, and not meant for direct long-distance
trips.
I feel that SMRT should focus on rail operations only, and SBST
and other bus operators should focus on bus operations only. SMRT
and the bus operators should be competitors to offer fast and
direct services, so that ultimately, commuters have a choice and
commuters are the one who win.