Bandar Seri Begawan: Brunei Darussalam has achieved a blood donation rate of 2.9 percent in 2024, maintaining a consistent trend since 2014 that meets the World Health Organization’s recommended level for supporting the country’s needs, especially in emergencies. This information was shared by the Minister of Health in a message marking World Blood Donor Day, an annual global initiative celebrated on June 14 to raise awareness about the need for safe and sustainable blood supplies. Yang Berhormat Dato Seri Setia Doctor Awang Haji Mohammad Isham bin Haji Jaafar emphasized the importance of sustaining this achievement through the continued efforts of the Blood Donation Centre, which will persist in promoting and facilitating voluntary blood donation campaigns throughout the nation.
According to Radio Television Brunei, the Blood Donation Centre at the Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Saleha Hospital, along with other hospital blood banks nationwide, remains committed to providing a safe and sufficient supply of blood and blood products. This commitment supports the overall effectiveness of the national healthcare system. Furthermore, as part of the Ministry of Health’s ongoing initiatives to ensure universal access to safe blood transfusions, a project under the Second National Development Plan for constructing a National Blood Centre has been approved. This new facility will provide a conducive environment for blood donation, featuring a dedicated suite to increase accessibility and attract more donors. It will also include lab facilities and a well-organised blood storage system that meets international standards.
The goal of this year’s World Blood Donor Day celebration is to express appreciation and recognize voluntary blood donors who make significant contributions to the health and well-being of the nation’s people. The World Health Organization, along with partners and the global community, celebrates this day with the theme and slogan “Donate Blood, Give Hope: Together We Help Save Lives.” The slogan underscores the impact of blood donors who have provided the gift of life and brought new hope to those in need.