First Lady Sajidha Mohamed has called on all eligible individuals to donate blood, describing it as one of the most meaningful ways to serve humanity and demonstrate generosity regardless of wealth or social status.
Speaking at the official World Blood Donor Day reception held at the Islamic Centre, the First Lady said blood donation offers every person an opportunity to earn goodwill and blessings through a simple act that can save lives.
In her address, she paid tribute to the thousands of voluntary blood donors who continue to support the country's healthcare system, describing them as exceptional individuals whose selfless contributions make a profound difference in the lives of others.
The First Lady noted that World Blood Donor Day is observed to recognise and celebrate voluntary blood donors while encouraging more people to participate in this noble humanitarian service. She said the occasion also serves to promote kindness, compassion, sacrifice and mutual respect within society.
Encouraging those who may feel hesitant about donating blood, she urged them to overcome their fears and experience the fulfilment that comes from helping those in need.
The ceremony featured the presentation of commemorative shields and certificates to long-serving blood donors and newly eligible 18-year-old first-time donors. Awards were also presented to organisations that hosted the highest number of blood donation camps and to individuals who made the greatest number of donations through such initiatives.
A Gold Award was presented to individuals who have consistently donated blood over many years, while Lifetime Contribution Awards were conferred by the First Lady on donors recognised for their extraordinary dedication and the highest number of donations throughout their lives.
Health professionals, volunteers and blood donors attended the ceremony, which highlighted the critical role voluntary donors play in ensuring a reliable blood supply across the country.
Meanwhile, the government announced a major step forward in modernising blood donation services with the introduction of a digitised national blood donor registry later this year.
Speaking at a separate Blood Donor Day event, Chief Executive Officer of Male' City Group of Hospitals Ibrahim Abdul Razzaq revealed that the new system will improve coordination between blood donors and recipients, making the process more efficient and accessible.
Razzaq explained that a digital registry for thalassaemia patients has already been established through the OneGov portal, and the same approach will now be expanded to blood donation services nationwide.
He said the initiative forms part of broader efforts by the government to strengthen blood-related healthcare services and improve care for patients who depend on regular blood transfusions.
Highlighting recent developments, Razzaq noted that a DNA laboratory was established at the Thalassaemia Centre in February this year, while blood transfusion services have been expanded to include Fridays. He also pointed to the introduction of endocrinology services in July 2025 and the launch of haematology services, antigen typing and bone marrow testing in August 2025.
According to Razzaq, these developments represent some of the most significant advancements introduced at the Thalassaemia Centre since its establishment 35 years ago.
Describing blood donation as an act of compassion, social responsibility and Islamic values, he thanked individual donors, private companies, resorts and community organisations that continue to support blood donation campaigns across the country.
He further noted that the administration of President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has placed special emphasis on improving healthcare services for thalassaemia patients and ensuring a stable and reliable blood supply for those who require regular transfusions.
Observed annually on 14 June, World Blood Donor Day recognises the selfless contributions of voluntary blood donors worldwide and raises awareness about the importance of maintaining safe and sufficient blood supplies. This year's commemorations not only celebrated the generosity of donors but also highlighted the Maldives' ongoing efforts to modernise and strengthen its lifesaving blood services for future generations.
