Kuala lumpur: The Ministry of Health (MOH) recorded 102 deceased organ donors from January to August this year. Deputy Director-General of Health (Medical) Datuk Dr Azman Yacob said this is an increase from the 89 deceased organ donors in 2025, equivalent to roughly 1.3 donors per million population.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Dr Azman highlighted that although there is a rise in the number of donors, public awareness regarding organ donation is still inadequate, with 12,575 patients waiting for new organs as of July this year. He noted that compared to international statistics, countries like the UAE and Spain have higher organ acceptance rates, reaching 20 to 30 per cent per million population.
Dr Azman addressed the media after launching the National Organ Donation Awareness Week (MKPO) 2026, emphasizing this year's theme, "Warisku, Hormati Ikrarku" (My Heirs, Honour My Pledge). He explained that MKPO promotes the message that a person's wish to donate organs posthumously is a humanitarian pledge that requires family support and understanding.
He expressed that many families are unaware of their loved one's intention to donate, contributing to the low numbers of deceased organ donations and the consequent impact on saving lives. Despite approximately 450,000 registered organ donors, actual donations remain low due to family decisions overriding donor intentions after death.
Dr Azman pointed out that when a donor becomes incapacitated due to an accident, brain death, or other causes, family members play a crucial role in honoring the donor's wishes. He mentioned that Terengganu was chosen to host this year's MKPO due to notable progress in organ and tissue donation in the East Coast states, with Terengganu recording seven procedures this year, and Pahang and Kelantan each recording one.
Additionally, Dr Azman stated that the Health Ministry aims to increase the number of actual organ donors through several initiatives. This includes establishing the National Transplant Council to enhance coordination of the national organ donation and transplantation agenda.
MOH will also intensify engagement with religious institutions to educate the public about organ donation, emphasizing that it aligns with religious principles. Dr Azman stressed the importance of clarifying legal and religious aspects, as misunderstandings can deter potential donors from coming forward.