Rethinking Strategy to Increase Organ Donation Rate

Current State of Organ Donation in Malaysia

Malaysia records around 200,000 deaths annually, and global trends suggest that about 1% of these would qualify as organ donors. This means Malaysia has the potential for around 4,000 cadaveric kidney transplants per year, enough to clear the current 10,000-person waiting list within three years. However, with 51,000 Malaysians currently on dialysis and projections indicating that this number will double to 106,000 by 2040, it is critical to increase the number of organ pledgers.

Current Pledge Numbers

The current 398,000 pledges are far from sufficient; we need to aim for at least three million, or ideally six million, to create meaningful change. The current decline in new pledges is a cause for concern. In 2022, 51,729 people pledged, which dropped to 28,363 in 2023, and further down to just 15,304 in 2024. The situation worsened in January 2025, with only 884 new pledges.

A New Approach is Needed

This year marks the 50th anniversary of Malaysia’s first organ (kidney) transplant. This milestone presents an ideal opportunity to launch a nationwide initiative to reverse the declining trend and reach at least one million pledgers. A new approach is necessary, perhaps one that integrates organ donation pledges with solutions that address other national challenges, such as Malaysia’s low insurance penetration rate, currently at 41%.

Finding a Solution

A staggering 60% of Malaysians lack insurance, leaving many families financially vulnerable. A pilot programme could be introduced where pledging organs is linked to ensuring basic funeral coverage, either through self-pay options or CSR sponsorships. This innovative approach could be the key to increasing organ donation pledges and providing hope to the growing number of dialysis patients and their families.

A Call to Action

I urge the health ministry to be open to innovative strategies, as there is an urgent need to provide hope to the growing number of dialysis patients and their families. A bold, collaborative effort launched in conjunction with this historic anniversary could be the key to saving thousands of lives.

Conclusion

Rethinking our approach to organ donation is crucial to addressing the increasing demand for organs. By integrating organ donation pledges with solutions to other national challenges, we can create a more effective and sustainable system. It is time for a fresh approach that involves collaboration with the private sector and NGOs to increase organ donation rates and provide hope to those in need.

FAQs

* What is the current number of people on dialysis in Malaysia?
+ 51,000
* What is the projected number of people on dialysis in Malaysia by 2040?
+ 106,000
* What is the current number of organ pledges in Malaysia?
+ 398,000
* What is the goal for the number of organ pledges in Malaysia?
+ At least three million, or ideally six million
* What is the current insurance penetration rate in Malaysia?
+ 41%
* What is the percentage of Malaysians without insurance?
+ 60%