Baiduri Bank Group held their annual blood donation drive in collaboration with The Blood Donation Centre of the Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Saleha (RIPAS) Hospital yesterday. The event took place at the Baiduri Community Space at the Baiduri Bank Headquarters.

Over 100 individuals, including Baiduri Bank Group employees and members of the public, joined together to generously donate blood. This initiative aims to replenish the low blood supplies at the National Blood Bank in RIPAS Hospital and has been organised annually since 2009 as part of the Group's Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR).

Similar to the previous year, the event was organised and lead by the apprentices from the Baiduri Bank Graduate Apprenticeship Programme (GAP), who began their six-month programme with the Bank in May. Under the guidance of their mentors and colleagues, the apprentices took charge of coordinating and working alongside RIPAS Hospital and the event partners.

GAP is a comprehensive learning and development program designed to equip fresh graduates with the necessary knowledge, skills, and experience to enhance their employability in the local job market. Undertaking projects such as leading the blood donation drive provides the apprentices with an opportunity to apply their skills and experience in a real event, which is a crucial aspect of their overall learning experience in the programme.

The event co-leads, Dk Nurfikiriyah Hafizah binti Pg Harun Amir Rashid, Dk Lubabah Nabilah binti Pg Haji Md Pura, and Nuramalia binti Junaidi, credited effective communication and a positive attitude, combined with their dedication to the cause, as significant factors contributing to the success of the blood donation drive.

Dk Nurfikriyah, reflecting on her experience, said, "I am immensely proud of what we have achieved together. The event's success stands as a testament to the power of collaboration, resilience, and the willingness to step outside our comfort zones. This journey has not only shaped me as a leader but also enriched my personal growth.”

While donating blood is crucial for saving lives, it is also associated with health benefits. Donors undergo a brief physical examination before the blood donation, during which medical personnel check vital signs such as pulse, blood pressure, body temperature, and hemoglobin levels. This preliminary check-up can sometimes reveal underlying health issues that individuals may not be aware of. Furthermore, the act of donating blood provides psychological benefits, knowing that one's contribution is helping those in need. Veronica Chong, Head of Group Human Resources and Administration, also participated in the event and donated blood alongside other donors.

Speaking on the event, she said, "This year, we received tremendous support from our employees and members of the public who united for a noble cause. There is a constant need for blood in our hospitals and events like these play a vital role in maintaining an adequate supply in the national blood bank.

"It is also inspiring to see our apprentices excel in preparing and organising this event. Our group of apprentices come from diverse backgrounds, and it is refreshing to see them bring new ideas and innovative approaches to projects like this."