KUCHING: Regular blood donors are urging more members of the public, especially those who are eligible, to step forward and contribute to the Sarawak General Hospital’s (SGH) Blood Bank to ensure a stable supply for patients in need.
During a donation drive at SGH on Thursday, long-time and newer donors shared their personal motivations and experiences, emphasising that donating blood is safe, straightforward, and vital for saving lives.
For Chin Wei Chien, 40, who has been donating blood since 2010, the act of giving has become both a personal commitment and a social responsibility.
This campaign marks his 11th donation through SGH.
“I donate because the Blood Bank needs to maintain a stable supply, sometimes up to two months’ worth of stock,” he said, adding that his Type O blood is frequently in high demand.
Chin explained that he responds quickly whenever SGH announces shortages, particularly during festive seasons.
“During Ramadan, donations are usually lower, so I try to support when I can,” he added.
He also sought to dispel fears surrounding blood donation.
“Some people are afraid they will lose too much blood, but we only donate a small amount, about 450 to 500 millilitres,” he said.
“For someone like me at 100 kilogrammes, 500 millilitres is nothing. Safety always comes first – if your blood pressure or iron levels aren’t suitable, nurses will not allow you to donate.”
Chin praised the SGH staff for their professionalism, noting that the procedure was quick and nearly painless.
“The donation took around five minutes, and the whole process less than 30 minutes. Afterwards, we get drinks and biscuits. It’s very comfortable,” he said.
He said he would continue donating as long as he remains healthy.
“We never know when we ourselves might need blood one day,” he added. “When things are stable, please donate. It really saves lives.”
Meanwhile, 30-year-old DBKU staff member, Nur Afeeqah, represents a younger generation committed to continuous blood donation.
Since her first contribution in 2019, she has donated 13 times.
“For me, it’s not about inspiration, but necessity,” she added. “Once we know others need blood, it becomes our responsibility to continue.”
Afeeqah usually donates during campaigns and ensures she meets all requirements, including waiting at least three months between donations.
“It’s important to eat and sleep well before coming,” she advised. “The doctors will screen us to ensure we are eligible. If we have a fever or low blood pressure, we won’t be allowed to donate.”
She said the true value of each donation often goes unseen.
“One bag of blood can help save three to four lives. It may look small, but its impact is huge,” she added.
Afeeqah encouraged those who meet the criteria to join her in supporting the Blood Bank.
“For those who are eligible, please donate. Many lives depend on it,” she said.
SGH continues to call for more healthy individuals to donate regularly as part of ongoing efforts to safeguard the state’s blood supply for emergencies, surgeries and critical care.
