Local artiste Shukri Mahari praised the active involvement of local associations in supporting blood donation campaigns, which he has seen through social media promotions over the years.
“It’s heartening to see the community come together, regardless of background or beliefs, to assist the Ministry of Health (MoH) in replenishing the blood stock,” he said during a two-day blood donation drive recently.
Having donated blood since 2000, with nine donations to date, Shukri expressed hope that more associations and organisations would host blood donation campaigns, even if just once a year.
“A once-a-year initiative may seem small but when you consider the number of successful donors, it can save over 100 lives, as one pint can save three lives.”
Meanwhile, Head of the Youth Division at the Hokkien Association Brunei Darussalam Chua Teng Kiat highlighted that the event was part of the association’s Silver Jubilee celebrations.
A regular donor himself, Chua shared his personal experiences, adding that blood donation offers numerous health benefits, including improved circulation, reduced cardiovascular disease risks and enhanced energy levels.
He has donated blood 75 times since 2000 and feels it is his responsibility to lead the younger generation in supporting the community through such initiatives.
“We hold blood donation campaigns twice a year as a way to assist the blood bank in meeting the growing demand for blood, especially for patients in critical care,” said Chua.
The campaign exceeded its target of 50 pints on the first day, collecting over 60 pints. On the second day, around 80 people showed up with 68 donating blood.
Meanwhile, Malaysian Wong Ngah Mun who is married to a Bruneian, has also been donating blood regularly since the days of the Blood Book. She now uses the Bloodkad app to track her donations.
”Through the app, I can always see that my blood type, B+, is often in low supply. So, every three months, if I’m available, I make it a point to donate, sometimes bringing my friends along during donation or simply stopping by the Blood Donation Centre,” Wong said.
She recalled her first attempt to donate blood, which was unsuccessful due to not having breakfast, but she persevered and later found it a fulfilling experience knowing her donation could save lives.
Mohd Yusra bin Bujang, a self-employed local in his 30s, also shared his experience to the Bulletin.
“I started donating blood just to try it out, but it has become part of my routine. I feel happy knowing that my donation could help save three lives,” he said.
He added, “It is also my responsibility as a concerned citizen to answer the continuous calls made by the hospital and especially the MoH to have the community come forward and lend a helping hand in replenishing the blood stock.
Some 135 pints of blood were collected during the two-day blood donation drive, held in collaboration with the Blood Donation Centre of Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Saleha Hospital. – Lyna Mohamad
