Inform family about pledges, organ donors told

The Star Online 24/10/2011

http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2011/10/24/nation/9760649&sec=nation

KUALA LUMPUR: Those who have pledged to be organ and tissue donors should inform their families to avoid “complications”.

Deputy Health Minister Datuk Rosnah Abdul Rashid Shirlin said that in most cases, family members of the deceased did not know of the pledge made.

“If they do not inform their next-of-kin, no one will know about it. If the family does not allow it, there is nothing that can be done,” she told reporters after launching the Bicara Hati programme in conjunction with Organ Donation Awareness Week 2011.

To create more awareness, she said the ministry had stepped up its campaigns and held forums, debates and health workshops through the “Young Doctors” programme.

Rosnah said donors should be hailed as community heroes and for upholding the 1Malaysia spirit.

She also paid tribute to family members who consented to the organ pledges.