Islamabad, August 12, 2025 (Nosheen Raja): The Embassy of the Republic of Indonesia in Islamabad, in collaboration with the Pakistan Red Crescent Society (PRCS), organized a blood donation drive under the campaign “Donate Blood, Save Lives.”
The event marked the 80th Independence Day of Indonesia and the 75th Anniversary of Indonesia Pakistan Bilateral Relations.
The drive was officially inaugurated by H.E. Mr. Chandra W. Sukotjo, Ambassador-designate of the Republic of Indonesia to Pakistan. In his opening remarks, the Ambassador emphasized the Indonesian President’s call to celebrate this year’s Independence Day with simplicity, while ensuring its meaning and impact benefit the wider community.
“The blood donation is a powerful reminder of the extraordinary impact our donors make in the community. Not only have you given the gift of life to patients in need, but you are also a beacon of hope and strength for their grateful families,” he said, addressing PRCS Chairperson Mdm. Farzana Naek, PRCS volunteers, and donors from ASEAN diplomatic missions, the Islamabad Foreign Women’s Association (IFWA), the Indonesian community including students, and the Pakistani public.
In her remarks, PRCS Chairperson Mdm. Farzana Naek commended the Indonesian Embassy’s consistent humanitarian initiatives and acknowledged the success of previous joint blood donation campaigns.
It is truly an honor to be at the Indonesian Embassy for such a noble cause,” she said, expressing her optimism for the continued success of this partnership.
During the event, the Indonesian Ambassador-designate and PRCS Chairperson signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on cooperation in humanitarian and emergency situations.
“This partnership will act as a catalyst for further collaboration, fueled by the spirit of innovation, teamwork, and friendship,” the Ambassador remarked.
“I am optimistic for further collaboration, not only with the Indonesian Embassy but also with other ASEAN member embassies ”
The event was met with enthusiasm from participants who valued the opportunity to strengthen people-to-people ties while contributing to saving lives.
An Indonesian student at the International Islamic University Islamabad (IIUI), shared,
“I had never donated blood before I was scared! But this time, I dared to do it. I learned that donating blood not only benefits my own health but also helps save the lives of others.”
Foreign nationals also took part, many for the first time. “I am excited; this is my first experience,” said Nardos from Ethiopia, joined by her husband from Eritrea. Lee from South Africa and Elizabeth from the Philippines also made their first donations, while Gilles from France returned to donating after a 20-year gap.
The blood donation campaign reinforced the Indonesian Embassy’s commitment to humanitarian causes and further strengthened the warm diplomatic, cultural, and social ties between the peoples of Indonesia, Pakistan, and the broader international community in Islamabad.