Kuala lumpur: The Ministry of Health (MOH) has designated 2026 as the 'National Mission' year to promote organ donation in the country through the Warisku, Hormati Ikrarku (My Family, Respect My Pledge) campaign. Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad announced the mission's goal to encourage families to respect donors' last wishes, emphasizing the crucial role of next-of-kin support for successful transplants.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, over 400,000 Malaysians have pledged to donate organs through the MySejahtera app. However, more than 10,000 patients remain on the waiting list, often due to families not honoring the donors' wishes. Dr Dzulkefly highlighted the importance of sharing digital pledges with family members to ensure they are respected.

Earlier, Dzulkefly expressed sorrow and admiration for 21-year-old donor Muhammad Zahran Muhammad Zuraidi, who passed away at Selayang Hospital. Muhammad Zahran's organ donations, including his liver, kidneys, corneas, and heart, have given others a chance at life. Dr Dzulkefly praised the strength of Muhammad Zahran's mother, who honored her son's final wish despite her grief, embodying the spirit of the ongoing campaign.

Media reports indicate that organ transplantation will be elevated to a national agenda. The MOH plans to restructure the National Transplant Centre (NTC) to oversee policy, administration, and coordination nationwide. Despite Malaysia's strong clinical expertise and public-private infrastructure, organ transplants remain low. This is attributed to the rise of end-stage organ failure from non-communicable diseases and existing gaps in early prevention and care.