KUCHING: A community-based initiative aimed at strengthening public awareness on organ and tissue donation through trained volunteers was launched here Sunday.
Sarawak LifeLink Team Awareness Training is a joint initiative by the Malaysian Red Crescent Society (MRCS) Stampin Branch and Sarawak General Hospital (SGH).
The half-day programme organised in collaboration with the Organ & Tissue Procurement Unit (UPOH) of SGH involved MRCS members aged 18 and above.
The initiative focuses on empowering non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and community volunteers to become informed and culturally sensitive advocates for organ donation.
Sarawak LifeLink is spearheaded by Dr Uma Devi Ramadass, clinical manager of UPOH, who also serves as Sarawak’s head of organ and tissue procurement coordination.
MRCS Stampin branch chairperson, Chew Kim Soon, said the training marked the beginning of a long-term partnership centred on education and community outreach.
“This programme marks the beginning of a long-term collaboration rooted in education, trust, and compassion.
“The Red Crescent aims to equip its volunteers with accurate information to engage the public respectfully,” he said.
Chew also said the MRCS Stampin was honoured to work with medical professionals from Sarawak General Hospital to bridge clinical expertise with community advocacy.
The training modules, conceptualised and delivered by Dr Uma, covered the fundamentals of organ and tissue donation, common myths and misconceptions, community advocacy skills and the operational role of LifeLink volunteers.
Dr Uma said Malaysia continues to face a shortage of organ donors, and the initiative aims to build trusted community advocates who can support informed conversations and improve awareness.
“Through Sarawak LifeLink, we are building a network of trusted community advocates who can engage meaningfully with the public, promote informed conversations, and help improve awareness and consent for organ donation,” she said.
Upon completing the training, participants will be recognised as members of the Sarawak LifeLink Team and will support awareness and outreach activities in coordination with UPOH, while observing strict ethical, cultural and professional boundaries.
MRCS Stampin and Sarawak General Hospital said they are committed to expanding the initiative in the coming months to foster a more informed and compassionate donor culture in Sarawak.
