A solemn moment unfolded at Tawau Hospital in Sabah on Monday morning, 18 August 2025, as doctors, nurses and medical staff lined up to pay their last respects to the late Darna Tajudin, aged 41, before her organs were donated to patients in need.

Tawau Hospital staff stand in solemn silence before the corneal donation procedure of the late Darna Tajudin, honouring her final act of giving
Tawau Hospital staff stand in solemn silence before the corneal donation procedure of the late Darna Tajudin, honouring her final act of giving.
Image credit: Yen Tanjudin (Facebook)

A tragic accident during a jog with friends

On August 10, while jogging with friends at Batu 9, Jalan Apas, Darna was struck by a suspected drunk driver. According to Harian Metro, the Toyota Hilux, driven by a 57-year-old man believed to be intoxicated, collided with the rear of a Perodua Alza before swerving off the road and ploughing into Darna and her companions. While the others escaped with minor injuries, Darna was hit and critically injured.

The Toyota Hilux pickup truck driven by the suspected drunk driver, badly damaged after the crash
The Toyota Hilux pickup truck driven by the suspected drunk driver, badly damaged after the crash.
Image credit: Yen Tajudin (Facebook)

She was rushed to Tawau Hospital, where doctors admitted her to the intensive care unit (ICU). For eight days, medical teams fought to save her life, but on August 18, at 8:37 a.m., she was pronounced dead after being confirmed brain dead.

Her younger brother, Yusmi Tajudin, spoke of the family’s grief, saying that Darna leaves behind five children, the youngest just 9 and the eldest 18.

From blood donation to her final gift, Darna’s life was about helping others

Darna was a committed blood donor who had long expressed her wish to give the “gift of life” by donating her organs. Although she was not officially registered as an organ donor, her family stepped forward to honour her intentions after she was declared brain dead.

“To fulfill her wishes, our family has agreed to allow the hospital to proceed with the cornea donation surgery,” her younger brother, Sanni Tajudin said.

The late Darna Tajudin with her five children, whom she leaves behind after the tragic accident
The late Darna Tajudin with her five children, whom she leaves behind after the tragic accident.
Image credit: Yen Tajudin (Facebook)

Darna’s final gift of corneal donation gives others the gift of sight

Before the corneal donation procedure, dozens of Tawau Hospital staff stood in silence as a mark of deep respect and gratitude for her contribution and sacrifice.

Hospital officials said Darna’s story highlighted the importance of organ and tissue donation, with her family’s decision ensuring that others would benefit even amid their loss.

Her final act was described as a powerful reminder of how one person’s choice can transform lives. Through her corneal donation, made possible by her family’s courage, Darna’s legacy will live on in those who are given the gift of sight.

The drunk driver will face punishment under the law

Meanwhile, police confirmed that the incident is being investigated under laws relating to dangerous and drunk driving. The 57-year-old driver suspected of causing the accident is expected to face charges once investigations are completed.

Tawau District Police Chief Assistant Commissioner Jasmin Hussin said the case remains under investigation as officers work to establish the full details.

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