SINGAPORE —  To meet the Republic’s growing demand for blood, another satellite blood bank opened today (June 23) at Westgate Tower, giving Jurong its first blood bank.

Bloodbank@Westgate Tower, located in Jurong East, is also the Health Sciences Authority’s (HSA) third satellite blood bank.

Speaking at its opening ceremony, Deputy Prime Minister Tharman Shanmugaratnam noted that the current level of blood donations is “barely enough” to meet Singapore’s demand.

“Blood needs (are) projected to double from the current level by 2030,” said Mr Tharman, who cited the ageing population and expanding healthcare system as the main reasons for the rising demand for blood products.

The opening of Bloodbank@Westgate Tower is aimed at encouraging workers and residents in the west to become regular donors by making blood donation more convenient, said the HSA. Its other satellite blood banks are in Dhoby Ghaut and Woodlands.

Mr Chow Yong Foo, a  four-time donor, said the new blood bank would allow him to donate more since his company has  two offices, on Jurong Island and in Pioneer. “It’s nearer and more convenient,” said the  32-year-old  first-line supervisor with Exxon Mobil, one of the  most active firms in organising blood donation for its staff.

Currently, the HSA estimates that only 1.78 per cent of the nation’s population are blood donors and they contribute about 110,000 units of blood annually, fewer than the 120,000 units needed a year. About a third of the blood donated is received at the first two satellite blood banks, said the HSA.

Bloodbank@Westgate Tower boasts a panoramic view of Jurong East and offers free Wi-Fi for donors.

About 100 regular donors and volunteers turned up at the blood bank today to show their support and donate blood, said the HSA.  First-time donor Lin Zhiqian, 24, was relieved to find that blood donation is painless. “It feels good. It’s quite meaningful that I can save lives through my blood,” said the SRC youth officer volunteer.

 HSA’s chief executive officer Mimi Choong said donating blood is a social responsibility. “One day ... people we know may need blood, so it’s important to pay it forward.”