METHODS: PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar and the Malaysian Medical Repository (MyMedR) were used for a search conducted up to May 2022. Relevant search terms included 'Organ donation' and 'Malaysia'. Journal articles related to knowledge, attitudes and intention were grouped under the general public and health science. Students and health personnel were included. Eligible studies were reviewed by two independent reviewers. Any disagreements were resolved by consensus with a third reviewer.
RESULTS: The 31 included articles revealed an increased level of awareness among the public regarding organ donation. The analysis identified that nonrecognition of brainstem death (38.5%), no knowledge of how to contact the Organ Transplant Coordinator (82.3%) and never approaching the families of a potential donor (63.9%) led to a lack of confidence among healthcare practitioners to promote organ donation.
CONCLUSION: The shortage of organ donors is the result of the failure to identify the expected donor, obtain consent and procure the organs due to the passivity of Malaysian health professionals in promoting the organ donation process.