SANDAKAN: The World Blood Donor Day 2026 Sandakan Cluster celebration was held with great significance on Aug 1 to honour the invaluable contributions of voluntary blood donors and recognise the unwavering support of various stakeholders in ensuring a sufficient blood supply for patients in need.
The programme, organised by the Duchess of Kent Hospital (DOK) Sandakan Transfusion Department, was officiated by Dr Mohd Fahmie Othman, Director of Duchess of Kent Hospital, at Dewan Selingan, (DOK).
Also present at the event were Dr Siti Rahayu Sulaiman, Deputy Medical Director II of Duchess of Kent Hospital Sandakan; Dr C Chew Khui Yei, Head of the Department of Transfusion Medicine at Duchess of Kent Hospital Sandakan; representatives from government and private agencies; strategic partners; programme sponsors; and the honoured blood donors.
In his officiating speech, Dr Mohd Fahmie expressed his deepest appreciation to all voluntary blood donors who came forward with sincerity to donate blood to help save the lives of others.
He said the theme for World Blood Donor Day 2026, “One Drop of Humanity. Give Blood. Save Lives,” conveys the message that every drop of donated blood represents humanity, compassion and hope for patients in need.
“Blood cannot be produced in laboratories, and there is no substitute capable of replacing it. Every bag of donated blood is immensely valuable as it provides a second chance to patients in need, including accident victims, surgical patients, cancer patients, Thalassaemia patients, and mothers experiencing complications during childbirth,” he said.
He also extended his highest appreciation to blood donors who consistently support every blood donation campaign organised by the DOK Transfusion Department.
The event also featured the presentation of Appreciation Awards in the Blood Donation Campaign Organiser Category, recognising organisations that have demonstrated commitment, cooperation and continuous support in helping to make mobile blood donation campaigns successful throughout the year.
Government department/agency category – Kem Tentera Sri Kinabatangan (Battalion 22 RAMD), Sandakan District Police Headquarters; NGO/association category – Persatuan Hung Mun Fook Yee Hing, SMK Konven St. Cecilia Sandakan Alumni Association, Tzu Chi Association Bandar Indah Sandakan, Basel Church Sandakan; private company category – Harbour Mall Sandakan, Mydin Hypermarket Sandakan, Mitsubishi Motors TBNC Sandakan, IOI Edible Oil Sdn. Bhd.; higher education institution/school category – Politeknik Sandakan, Industrial Training Institute Sandakan (ILP).
These awards serve as recognition of the efforts and commitment of all parties who have provided space, resources and support to ensure the success of blood donation campaigns.
Special appreciation was also extended to programme sponsors who contributed to the success of the World Blood Donor Day 2026 Sandakan Cluster Celebration, particularly: Life Water Industries Sdn. Bhd. (K2), Sandakan Orthopaedic Association, Wangi Mart.
Their contributions in the form of goods, food, gifts and logistical support are greatly appreciated and reflect their high level of concern for humanitarian efforts in the healthcare sector.
The celebration was further enlivened by various activities including a Blood Donation Campaign, Health Screening and Health Exhibition, which took place from 9.30 am to 2.00 pm.
The programme provided opportunities for community members to donate blood while also obtaining health-related information through the exhibition booths provided.
The DOK Transfusion Department extends its highest appreciation and gratitude to all blood donors, co-organisers, strategic partners, sponsors, healthcare workers and volunteers who have demonstrated commitment in making the World Blood Donor Day 2026 Sandakan Cluster Celebration a resounding success. – James Leong
Dr. Fahmie (seated 3rd left), with officials, representatives and programme participants.
