KUCHING: Deputy Works Minister Datuk Yong Khoon Seng yesterday praised blood donors whose continuous little act of kindness have saved many lives over the years.

He said he had been to many blood donation campaign launches and was glad that the people of all ages and background had responded positively to the blood bank’s call to replenish its stock.

“From these campaigns, I’ve seen lives saved because of the kindness of blood donors,” he said when launching a blood donation campaign at Stampark here.

Sarawak Blood Donors Society organised the campaign in conjunction with the World Blood Donor Day, which falls on June 14 every year.

A mini exhibition was also held as a side activity to raise public awareness on the benefits of donating blood while donors were feted to lunch to thank them for their continuous support.

Society chairman Lawrence Pohan said that Australia had been chosen to lead the worldwide World Blood Donor Day celebrations this year.

In line with the event, he said World Health Organisation (WHO) stressed among others, the creation of greater awareness on the need for safe blood transfusion and the importance of blood donation.

He also thanked the donors and volunteers for responding to a worldwide appeal for blood and blood components.

“WHO also urges international organisations and agencies concerned with global blood safety to collaborate in promoting and supporting World Blood Donor Day,” he said.

He added that WHO also stressed on improving the safety and sufficiency of blood supplies through the achievement of 100 per cent voluntary non-remunerated donation of blood and blood components.