SIBU: The Sibu Hospital Blood Bank managed to collect 8,671 pints of blood and supplied 6,590 to patients last year.
According to Sibu Hospital deputy director Dr Rachel Teng, in 2021, they had collected 8,020 pints of blood and supplied 5,316 units.
But in 2022, the collection increased to 9,403 units, with 6,206 units supplied.
“The increase in both collection and supply over the years reflects the growing demand for blood in medical treatments and emergencies,” she said in her welcoming speech at the Malaysian Red Crescent Society (MRCS) Sibu branch World Blood Donor Day at a hotel here Sunday (June 9).


Dr Teng, who is also the organising chairperson, said that according to the recorded data, there is a growing reliance on mobile donations, which have consistently contributed the majority of the blood supply.
She said that in 2021, 69.8 per cent of the blood was collected through mobile donations, while 77.3 per cent was recorded in 2022, and it increased to 79.6 per cent in 2023.
Meanwhile, on regular blood donors, she said in 2021, 84.9 per cent of their donors were regular donors, and 15.1 per cent were new donors.
“In 2022, regular donors were 83.7 per cent, while new donors increased to 16.3 per cent. In 2023, regular donors rose to 86.5 per cent, with new donors at 13.5 per cent,” she added.
She stressed that while regular blood donors are crucial in maintaining a stable blood supply; they need to consistently attract new donors.
“I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to our blood donation organisers and blood donors, both present and past. Your dedication is truly inspiring, and your contributions are a beacon of hope for patients and families in need.
“To the healthcare professionals and volunteers who work tirelessly to support blood donation initiatives, your efforts are indispensable, and your passion for this cause is deeply appreciated,” she added.
Meanwhile, according to Assistant Director of MRCS Sarawak Chapter Ng Pei Sze, the total pints collected by MRCS Sarawak and its branches in 2023 stood at 26,092.
“I am proud of all branches and chapters that collected more than 20,000 pints in 2023. MRCS Sarawak Chapter and its branches cooperated with local non-governmental organisations, community leaders, associations, and other non-profit organisations to enhance the effectiveness of their blood donation campaigns throughout the year.
“We aimed to increase the number of new donors to replenish the diminishing pool of ageing blood donors. We also targeted existing donors who were encouraged to donate blood voluntarily every three to six months, as well as potential new donors,” she added.
Also present Deputy Speaker of the Dewan Rakyat and Lanang MP Alice Lau, Bukit Assek assemblyman Joseph Chieng, and MRCS Sibu Branch Chairman Penghulu Chua Hiong Kee.