The festive spirit of Hari Raya Aidilfitri was in full swing at Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Saleha (RIPAS) Hospital Blood Donation Centre yesterday, as donors were welcomed into a Hari Raya-themed setting.
Among those donating was Kenny, a long-time platelet donor from Tutong District. Inspired by his father, a retired blood donor, Kenny has been donating blood since his school years and continues to do so whenever there is a need.
“I feel like I help a lot of people, I feel happy and satisfied, but not for selfish reasons. I try to tell my friends to donate blood most of the time, as much as we can, and they did, including during Ramadhan where they would donate in the evening,” he said.
Meanwhile, Hernie Haji Othman, a 45-year-old government servant, marked her 18th blood donation at the event. She donates every four months but sometimes faces temporary ineligibility due to low haemoglobin levels. “I encourage others to donate when regular donors like me are temporarily unable to. It’s a simple act that can save up to three lives, and you never know – it could be a friend or relative who needs it,” she said.
She urged more people to come forward, emphasising that donating blood is a small sacrifice with a significant impact. “It doesn’t take much, just a bit of your time. If you cannot attend external blood donation campaigns, you can always visit the RIPAS Hospital Blood Donation Centre at your convenience,” she added.
Scientific Officer Nur Afiqah binti Abdullah said the initiative was launched to address the increasing demand for blood, particularly after the three-day public holiday.
The centre anticipated at least 50 donors on the first day and another 50 the following day. “We also have some refreshments and gifts for donors in conjunction with the Hari Raya celebration,” she added.
To ensure a good turnout, the organisers promoted the event through social media, corporate communications and direct invitations to regular donors. “We also encourage donors to visit, get to know each other, and build a strong community of blood donors who support our mission,” she said.
Encouraging greater participation, Nur Afiqah urged regular donors to donate every two to three months to maintain a stable blood supply. She also appealed to young and healthy individuals aged 18 and above to take the initiative and become first-time donors. “New donors are crucial to sustaining blood stocks and ensuring future generations continue this life-saving tradition,” she said. She further noted the benefits of donating blood, including a complimentary health check-up provided by the centre’s doctors. “Regular donors tend to be more mindful of their health, and there is great satisfaction in knowing you are helping someone in need,” she said.
Organised in collaboration with the Brunei Darussalam Association of Medical Laboratory Scientists (BAMLS), the event aimed to replenish blood supplies while celebrating the joyous occasion. As the event continues, organisers remain hopeful that more people will embrace the spirit of giving and contribute to the nation’s blood supply, ensuring that patients in need receive timely assistance. – Lyna Mohamad
