Long Queues Form at Hougang for $12 Million Toto Hong Bao Draw

A long line of eager customers snaked outside the Tong Aik Huat Singapore Pools outlet in Hougang as the $12 million Toto Hong Bao Draw drew massive attention. For many hopefuls like 46-year-old Keith Yeo, buying a Toto ticket is about more than just luck – it’s a dream to change their lives. Yeo, who was waiting in line on Friday morning (Feb 7), explained, “Everybody has a dream – to pursue our dreams, we must win.”

Yeo, an event director, shared that he tries his luck every year, pooling together $500 with his friends to have a shot at the massive jackpot. This year, if he wins, Yeo envisions semi-retirement by having someone else manage his business. “I’ll invest most of my winnings into expanding my business,” he said.

The Tong Aik Huat outlet in Hougang has a history of selling winning tickets, with one of the lucky Group 1 tickets from 2024 being sold there. The allure of this year’s $12 million prize has drawn even larger crowds, with queues stretching well into the HDB car park behind the outlet, easily surpassing a hundred people.

Another hopeful, Alvin Chiao, 38, revealed he’s been participating in the Toto Hong Bao Draw for the past 20 years. This year, he’s spending $924 on tickets. Chiao, who plans to donate part of his winnings to charity and take a holiday, expressed confidence in his chances. “I will change my life,” he said, adding with a smile, “but I’ll stay humble.” He further joked, “Buying 4D is to change your life for the week, but buying Toto is to change your life forever.”

Queues were also spotted at other Singapore Pools locations, including Ang Mo Kio Hub and the Delisa Agency in Rochor, as anticipation builds ahead of the draw.

The Toto Hong Bao Draw will take place at 9:30 pm on Friday at the Singapore Pools Building on Middle Road.