A last-minute decision to donate blood with a friend eventually became a meaningful way for Mr Khairul Shabir Bin Khalid to give back

For many young people, blood donation is something they support in principle, but never quite get around doing it. For Youthphoria Award receipient Khairul Shabir Bin Khalid, all it took was a friend’s invitation to skip class.

His blood donation journey began during a mobile blood drive in school. Although he has been interested in donating throughout the campaign, he admits he lacked the final push to take the first step.

“On the last day of the drive, a friend asked if I wanted to donate with him. That invitation gave me the push I needed.” he recalled.

Like many first time donors, he was apprehensive. Having heard stories about needles and pain, he was unsure what to expect. Even seeking parental consent became part of the experience.

“My parents were surprised that their approval was required. They had a few questions at first, but eventually gave their consent.

What he remembers most vividly from the first donation was not the needle, but a moment involving his friend. During the donation, his friend experienced some discomfort, but the nurses worked quickly to ensure that the entire process was smooth and painless.

“At the time, I was worried for him. Looking back now, it’s something we laugh about.”

The experience also challenged his expectations. He was struck by the care and professionalism shown by the nursing team, who regularly checked on donors, engaged them in conversation and ensured that they felt comfortable throughout the process.

“The nurses were constantly checking up on me, making conversations, and even let me keep the stress ball I was using during the donation.

Despite the positive experience, he did not immediately become a regular donor. It was only during his National Service years that blood donation re-entered his life. This time,  he saw it differently, as a simple yet meaningful way to contribute to society.

Since then, blood donation has become part of his routine. Whenever he finds himself near a blood bank, he makes a conscious effort to stop by and donate.

“As a student, time can be limited. But if I’m already in the area and there’s a blood bank nearby, I’ll make a point to drop in.”

Today, he hopes more youths will take that first step, especially alongside their friends.

“Most people think donating blood is a good thing to do. They just never get around to it. It’s not because they don’t want to help. Often, nobody has personally asked them.”

His advice is simple: Make it a group activity.

“Go together. Make it a bonding experience. Sometimes all it takes is one person to start.”

Feeling Youthphoric

Receiving the Youthphora Award this year, Khairul says: “It feels great, but in the long run, it's hopefully just one milestone of the couple more I’ll eventually earn. Because I'll keep donating if I'm able to.”