KUALA LUMPUR: The allocation and distribution of human organs in the country is based solely on clinical judgement, with no consideration of factors such as the race, religion, background or social status of donors.
“This means, of course, that there is the possibility that organs donated by non-Muslims have been given to Muslims and vice-versa, which is similar in the case of blood donation and transfusion,” Health director-general Datuk Dr Noor Hisham Abdullah said in a statement today.
The Health Ministry is responding to a viral online video in which an organ donor questions whether organs donated by non-Muslims are considered “halal” and if the public should be concerned over the halal status of organs being transplanted.
The donor made the video following reports that authorities had seized brushes of various types made from pig bristles in a nationwide crackdown.
Dr Noor Hisham said the National Fatwa Council had, in fact, issued a fatwa in 1970, requiring organ donation by members of the Muslim community.
“Many religious experts, including the mufti, had clarified this matter and explained that it is not an ‘issue’ if a Muslim receives organs and blood from a non-Muslim and vice versa.
“The ministry highly appreciates the willingness of many Malaysians who have registered as organ donors and who have donated blood.
“The ministry (invites) more people to become registered organ donors at http://www.dermaorgan.gov.my/,” he added.
Dr Noor Hisham said that generally, Malaysians’ awareness on the importance of organ donation has increased, with more than 350,000 having pledged themselves as organ donors so far.
Meanwhile, long-time organ donors can apply for a new card to replace their old ones via http://www.fb.com/dermaorgan or Twitter @dermaorgan.
Visit https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R5RaDPBobj4&feature=youtu.be for more comments on the issue of organ donation between Muslims and non-Muslims.