SIBU: Malaysian Red Crescent Society (MRCS) Sarawak Chapter chairman Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Dr George Chan Hong Nam has urged volunteers to strengthen their skills and prepare future humanitarian leaders.
He said volunteers remained a vital pillar of Sarawak’s emergency and community response, particularly during disasters such as floods, when they help manage evacuation centres, distribute relief supplies and provide emotional first aid to affected families.
Dr Chan said their selfless service was especially significant as many continued volunteering while balancing commitments to work, studies and family.
“These volunteers are the backbone of our emergency and civil response,” Dr Chan said at the MRCS Sarawak Chapter Volunteers’ Recognition Night (VRN) 2026 hosted by MRCS Sibu Branch at a prominent hotel here Yesterday.
He also paid tribute to volunteers for consistently putting the needs of others before their own despite having to balance commitments to work, studies and family.
He pointed out that much of the volunteers’ work takes place away from the spotlight, including providing first aid coverage at public events, conducting life-saving training, supporting blood donation campaigns and participating in environmental initiatives such as tree planting to help address climate change.
Dr Chan stressed that such contributions reflected the true spirit of humanitarianism, as volunteers willingly give their time and energy without seeking personal reward.
He reminded volunteers that every act of service, regardless of how small it may appear, could make a meaningful difference to individuals, families and the wider community.
At the same time, he urged younger volunteers to step forward, acquire the necessary skills and take on greater leadership responsibilities to ensure the humanitarian movement remains strong and sustainable in the years ahead.
The call was particularly significant as MRCS Sarawak continues to prepare for emerging humanitarian challenges, with volunteers expected to play an increasingly important role in disaster preparedness, community resilience and public health awareness.
The VRN 2026 subsequently honoured volunteers and individuals whose contributions have strengthened the MRCS humanitarian mission throughout Sarawak.
The highlight of the evening was the presentation of the MRCS Sarawak Chapter Awards 2026, recognising outstanding contributions to the movement, together with special medals for distinguished blood donors who had donated 100 pints or more, helping to save countless lives.
The event also brought together MRCS leaders, veterans and volunteers from across the state in a celebration of the dedication and commitment that sustain the organisation’s humanitarian work at grassroots level.
Among those present were Councillor Kevin Lau Kor Jie, representing Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Professor Dr Sim Kui Hian, MRCS Sibu Branch chairman Penghulu Chua Hiong Kee, MRCS officials and other dignitaries.
The proceedings concluded with the symbolic handover of the VRN 2027 and a group photo, signalling the continuation of the chapter’s humanitarian legacy and its commitment to preparing its volunteers for the challenges ahead.
For MRCS Sarawak, the recognition night was more than an awards ceremony — it was a tribute to the men and women who stand ready to serve when communities need help most, and a reminder that humanitarian action begins with people willing to step forward.
