About 25,500 non-Muslim Singaporeans and Permanent Residents have opted out of the Human Organ Transplant scheme since its introduction two years ago.

The Human Organ Transplant Act (Hota), amended in July 2004, states that kidneys, livers, hearts and corneas suitable for transplant can be removed from all Singaporeans and permanent residents upon their death as defined by the Act - unless they have opted out.

Muslims are exempted for religious reasons. They must opt in if they want to donate their organs.

In his reply to a question from MP Mdm Halimah Yacob in Parliament yesterday, Health Minister Khaw Boon Wan said that the objectors made up 1% of the potential HOTA population.

"While the opt-out rate is low, every objector is a potential loss of a donor and is therefore of some concern. But overall, I am grateful that the vast majority of Singaporeans support the HOTA legislation," said the minister.

"We will continue with our public education programme to persuade Singaporeans to stay within HOTA. This includes the use of mass media, public lectures and direct correspondence with all Singaporeans who turn 21."

During the budget debate in March, Mr Khaw had said that, on average, more than one life had been saved every week since amendments were made to the Act two years ago, with an an average of 41 kidney transplants being performed yearly since then and another 115 patients benefiting from liver, heart and cornea transplants.