SIBU: The contribution of the Malaysian Red Crescent Society (MRCS), particularly in Sibu and Sarawak , is truly remarkable.
Pointing out this, Bukit Assek State Assemblyman, Joseph Chieng Jin Ek stated that for the past years, Sarawak always recorded one of the highest blood donation rates per capita in Malaysia, and also the highest proportion of regular blood donors nationwide.
“This is not an accident, it is the result of strong leadership, effective collaboration and a caring community.
“For example, in last year alone, Sibu Hospital collected more than 8,300 bags of blood while district hospitals across Central Region contributed over 4,500 bags, bringing the total annual collection to 12, 836 bags.
“These numbers represent more than statistics, they represent lives saved, family comforted and hope restored,” he said at the MRCS Sibu Branch’s Appreciation Night held its premises here on Saturday.
According to Chieng, who is also MRCS Sibu Branch honourary advisor, even more encouraging is the fact that, in the year 2024, over 80 per cent of blood donors in Sibu were regular donors, far exceeding the national target of 65 per cent.
Saying that this spoke volumes about the sense of responsibility and compassion among the people of Sibu, he believed that similiar achievements will be made this year.
“However, we must also acknowledge the challenges ahead. As highlighted by the Red Crescent leadership, blood collection trends are facing pressure due to an ageing population and a decline in young donors. This is a reality we cannot ignore.
Therefore, it is crucial that we continue to recruit and nurture new blood donors, especially among the younger generation. We must cultivate a culture where donating blood is seen not only as a medical act, but also as a civic duty, a social responsibility and a source of pride.
“In this regard, the MRCS plays an indispensable role, not only in organising blood donation campaigns, but also in educating the public, mobilising volunteers and building long-term awareness. Your close collaboration with Sibu Hospital, government agencies, non-governmental organisations and community partners has been key to Sarawak’s success story,” he stated.
Firmly believing that organisations like the MRCS are pillars of a resilient and caring society, Chieng assured of his continuous support for initiatives that strenghen volunteerism, promote public health, and safeguard the well-being of the community.
Among those present were MRCS Sibu Branch chairman, Penghulu Chua Hiong Kee and deputy chairman, Hii Sieh Toh.
