Chinese publicity authorities Thursday called for an improved socialist volunteer service system and the regular holding of "Learn from Lei Feng" activities.

A sound social volunteer service system with frequent activities and full participation should be established and "Learn from Lei Feng" activities should be held on a regular basis to create a social atmosphere of altruism, according to a statement released at the conference held by the CPC Publicity Department.

The volunteer service system will also help to build a harmonious environment for the 18th National Congress of the ruling Communist Party of China (CPC) scheduled in the latter half of this year, according to the statement.

The department called on to nurture volunteer culture and practise the "Lei Feng" spirit throughout the society, following its urging for promotion of Lei's spirit on a press conference on Monday.

The statement advocated "caring activities" to take care of the empty nester, the left-behind children, migrant workers and the disabled, as well as activities to spread knowledge regarding civility and etiquette, maintain traffic order and protect the environment.

The statement urged relevant institutions and organizations to take in more volunteers across the nation, strengthen the training to the volunteers and constantly enhance their service abilities and level.

As China's icon of altruism, Lei Feng was known for devoting almost all his spare time and money to selflessly helping the needy. He died from injuries sustained from being hit on the head by a pole while helping a fellow soldier direct a truck on Aug. 15, 1962, at an age of 22.

A year later, late Chairman Mao Zedong called on the entire nation to follow Lei's example, and March 5 of every year is designated "Lei Feng's Day."