POIC investor community donate blood for ninth time
LAHAD DATU: The POIC investor community here is hailed for promoting civicmindedness and values of empathy through their consistent participation in a blood donation campaign.
Since the first campaign launched on Nov 23, 2021, the POIC Emergency Mutual Aid (PEMA) Blood Donation Drive has consistently exceeded expectations, showcasing the community's spirit and willingness to support lifesaving efforts.
The first drive set an ambitious target of 100 donations, attracting 143 eligible donors, and has since continued to grow in both awareness and impact. The latest campaign gathered 72 pints of blood.
“You deserve the highest praises for your role in giving blood, promoting the noble deed of giving blood and being role models of great public service spirit,” said Dr Thiaggu Palan from the Tranfusion Medical Unit of the Lahad Datu District Hospital.
The hospital's blood bank had just completed a two-day blood donation campaign with companies operating in the POIC Lahad Datu industrial park organised under the auspices of PEMA.
PEMA was initiated by POIC Sabah Sdn Bhd, the state-owned company that develops and manages POIC Lahad Datu.
Dr Thiaggu praised PEMA for the ninth consecutive blood donation campaign that had been ‘a ‘big help' to the local blood bank.
“POIC is leading a commendable programme that has grown to become a major blood contributor, saving lives and promoting the example of doing public good,” he said.
“We are grateful for the way PEMA has evolved,” said Deputy Chief Executive Lynette Hoo. “Not only have many of our staff become regular blood donors, this noble exercise for public good has also united us in a common purpose and brought our community closer for our mutual good.”
PEMA started in 2021 with expert guidance from the Fire and Rescue Department.
Membership comprises volunteers drawn from companies within POIC Lahad Datu. They are trained by the fire and rescue personnel to become first responders to emergencies at their work places.
Refresher courses are regularly held to ensure PEMA members' competence and preparedness.