The family of a Sibu primary school deputy principal who recently passed away has made a selfless decision in the midst of their grief, agreeing to donate her kidneys and corneas so that others may have a chance at a new life.
The organ donation procedures were completed at Sibu Hospital today, marking the hospital’s first successful organ donation surgery since 2019.
The late Luk Siu King, who served as deputy principal at Sacred Heart Primary School in Sibu for nine years, passed away on Sept 30. Her death left teachers and students at the school deeply saddened, with colleagues remembering her as a compassionate educator who always treated others with patience and kindness.
Colleagues remember her kindness towards students and workers
One colleague recalled that Luk could spend up to an hour patiently talking to students with behavioural issues, choosing to guide them through conversation rather than resorting to corporal punishment. She was also known for looking out for students from underprivileged families and the school’s cleaners, sometimes paying for items out of her own pocket to help them.
Sibu Hospital described Luk on its Facebook page as a loving wife, mother and educator.
After doctors confirmed that she had suffered irreversible brain damage, the hospital approached her family about organ donation. Despite their grief, her family agreed to donate her organs.
Kidneys and corneas donated, transplants to be carried out in West Malaysia
The kidney retrieval procedure was carried out by doctors from Sarawak General Hospital in Kuching, while doctors from Sibu Hospital handled the cornea retrieval. The procedures were supported by organ donation teams from Sibu Hospital and Kuala Lumpur, and both operations were completed successfully. The donated organs will be transplanted to recipients in West Malaysia.
Sibu Hospital said this was its eighth brain-death case this year and the first to result in a successful organ donation. The hospital expressed its deepest respect and gratitude to Luk’s family, saying their decision in the midst of grief reflected extraordinary love and courage.
Sibu Hospital lights up green in tribute
Sibu Hospital also lit up several green lights at its East and West buildings at 6pm today in honour of Luk. Green is recognised internationally as the colour associated with organ donation and is used to represent life, hope and renewal.
The tribute was also intended to raise awareness about organ donation and how one person’s decision can help extend lives even after their passing.
Luk’s colleagues said she had spent her life showing love, patience and compassion, and remembered her as someone who always sought to care for the people around her.
Follow Wah Piang for more
