ISLAMABAD ( WNAM REPORT ): The Embassy of the Republic of Indonesia in Islamabad, in collaboration with the Pakistan Red Crescent Society (PRCS), organized the Blood Donation Drive in conjunction with 81st Anniversary of Indonesia’s Independence Day Celebration next month and the Embassy’s current Chairship of ASEAN Committee in Islamabad.
The annual event which themed, “Share Blood, Share Hope : ASEAN-Pakistan Zindabad!,” brought together diplomats from ASEAN member states, Indonesian diaspora, Pakistani counterparts, as well as tens of Indonesian and Pakistani students. Thai Ambassador, Rongvudi Virabutr and Brunei High Commissioner Pengiran Haji Kamal Bashah bin Pengiran Haji Ahmad were among the attendees.
The event was officially inaugurated by the Indonesian Ambassador, Chandra W. Sukotjo, who graced the occasion accompanied by his spouse, Tamara Sukotjo.
Representing PRCS, Dr. Dania Hassan emphasized the importance of Blood Donation Drive continued by the Emergency Training, as follow up of Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Humanitarian Cooperation signed by the Indonesian Ambassador and Chairperson of PRCS last year.
In his opening remarks, Ambassador Chandra W. Sukotjo called to mark the momentous days with action. “Indeed, voluntary blood donation is simple, yet profound act of kindness. It gives others a second chance at life,” he said.
The Ambassador further viewed that the blood donation activity reaffirmed commitment to the values of compassion, empathy, and humanity. Referring his previous assignment as part of peacekeeping forces in different armed conflicts, the Ambassador underlined that blood is life.
“Every few seconds, someone needs transfusion. Without enough safe blood, many lives are lost,” he continued.
This year’s blood donation is more special as it involves more youth. Tens of Indonesian and Pakistani students come in solidarity with the spirits of contribution to build more compassionate community through blood donation.
“I feel more connected with the Indonesian colleagues, since I frequently participate in discussions held at the Indonesian Corner, National Library of Pakistan (NLP),” expressed Shakir Malik, Pakistani student of Political Science at the International Islamic University Islamabad (IIUI).
“For me, taking part in blood donation is a reflection of gratitude to Allah,” explained Irham Amin, Indonesian student at IIUI who has just received congratulatory messages from the Indonesian Ambassador along with his graduating fellows prior the Blood Donation Drive.
“I really appreciate youth’s participation during this year’s blood donation, as the blood donated is relatively low-risk of possible diseases,” said Dr. Wasifa Mutassim, Program Manager Health Department, PRCS.
Concluding the event, the PRCS team reported more than 80 blood bags successfully collected.
The humanitarian cooperation between the Embassy of Indonesia continues with the Emergency Training on 9-10 July 2026, for ASEAN family members.
