Kelantan records lowest organ donation rate nationwide
Its director Datuk Dr Zaini Hussin said the figure reflects persistently low awareness of organ donation in the state, particularly among rural communities and younger demographics.
"Since the organ donation pledge programme began in 1997, Kelantan has recorded only eight actual donors," he said.
Speaking to reporters after launching the state-level Organ Donation Awareness Week 2025 at Hospital Raja Perempuan Zainab II on Thursday (Aug 14), Dr Zaini stressed the urgent need to improve both pledge registration and actual donation rates.
"Organ demand remains high, especially for kidneys and corneas, as well as hearts and livers. One donor can save up to four lives," he said.
Dr Zaini added that overcoming cultural and religious misconceptions requires a coordinated effort involving medical professionals, authorities and religious scholars.
"Although many support the idea in principle, barriers such as limited understanding, myth, family hesitation and concerns over funeral delays or respecting the deceased remain widespread," he said.
He noted that some families may fear that organ retrieval could delay burial, a concern that continues to deter potential donors.
According to the National Transplant Resource Centre, the Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur currently has the highest pledge rate at 2.32%. - Bernama
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