Malaysian Red Crescent Society a pillar of caring society, says Bukit Assek rep

SIBU (Dec 14): The contributions of volunteers from the Malaysian Red Crescent Society (MRCS) in ensuring an adequate blood supply have saved thousands of lives and become a vital pillar of the public healthcare system, particularly in Sibu and Sarawak as a whole.

Bukit Assek assemblyman Joseph Chieng said the dedication of volunteers, regular blood donors, medical teams and MRCS supporters demonstrated a strong humanitarian spirit and service without regard to background.

“I am firmly convinced that organisations such as the Malaysian Red Crescent Society are pillars of a resilient and caring society.

“I give my assurance of continued support for all initiatives that strengthen volunteerism, promote public health and safeguard the well-being of our community.

“Their contributions may seem small, but their impact is immense,” he said when speaking at MRCS Sibu Branch Appreciation Night 2025 on Saturday night.

According to Chieng, the role played by MRCS in Sibu and Sarawak is a source of pride, as the state has, over the past several years, consistently recorded among the highest per capita blood donation rates in the country, in addition to achieving the highest percentage of regular blood donors at the national level.

He said that in 2024 alone, Sibu Hospital successfully collected more than 8,300 bags of blood, while district hospitals in central Sarawak contributed over 4,500 bags, bringing the total annual collection to 12,836 bags of blood.

“These figures are not merely statistics, but represent thousands of lives saved, families given hope, and the continued well-being of our society,” he said.

He added that more than 80 per cent of blood donors in Sibu are regular donors, far exceeding the national target of 65 per cent, reflecting the high level of awareness and sense of responsibility among the local community.

Chieng also stressed that MRCS plays a crucial role not only in organising blood donation campaigns, but also in educating the public, mobilising volunteers and building long-term awareness through close collaboration with Sibu Hospital, government agencies, non-governmental organisations and community partners.

He also touched on future challenges, particularly the pressure on blood supplies due to an ageing donor population and declining participation among younger people.

In this regard, he called for sustained efforts to attract more young people to step forward as blood donors, while nurturing a culture of blood donation as a civic responsibility and a shared source of pride.

“Your close cooperation with Sibu Hospital, government agencies, non-governmental organisations and community partners is the key to Sarawak’s success,” he said.

The event also saw the presentation of the MRCS National Awards 2024 and 2025, Certificates of Appreciation to MRCS Speakers, Volunteer Certificates, Certificates of Appreciation to Sponsors/Partners, Cadet Unit Certificates of Appreciation and Junior Unit Certificates of Appreciation.

Among those present at the event was MRCS Sibu branch chairman Penghulu Chua Hiong Kee.