Top Award for Covid-19 Contributions to be Given to Outstanding Individuals and Teams Across Various Sectors
On December 29, the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) announced that over 100,000 people would be recognised for their exceptional contributions and sacrifices in Singapore’s fight against Covid-19. These individuals, from various sectors, played pivotal roles in helping the country navigate through the pandemic.
The National Awards (Covid-19) will be awarded to around 9,500 individuals, including approximately 4,000 from the public healthcare sector, 4,500 from the public sector, and about 900 from the private and people sectors. More than 480 teams will also be honoured with the President’s Certificate of Commendation. These awards highlight the collective effort of those who contributed to critical areas such as medical care, surveillance, testing, vaccination drives, safe distancing, and ensuring economic and social resilience.
Kenneth Mak, the Associate Professor and Director of Medical Services at the Ministry of Health (MOH), is among the three recipients of the top award, the Meritorious Service Medal (Covid-19). As Chief Medical Advisor, Mak provided guidance to the Multi-Ministry Taskforce (MTF) and other government agencies in managing the public health response. He was a key figure in reassuring the public, regularly appearing at MTF press conferences, and working closely with healthcare professionals and community partners.
Mak expressed his gratitude, stating that the award was an honour, and attributed Singapore’s resilience against Covid-19 to the collective efforts of healthcare workers.
Other top awardees include Pang Kin Keong, chairman of the Homefront Crisis Executive Group (HCEG), and Tan Chong Meng, group CEO of PSA International. Pang was recognised for his leadership in coordinating the whole-of-Government response to the pandemic, while Tan helped ensure the resilience of Singapore’s supply chains during global disruptions caused by Covid-19.
Additionally, a new national award, the Covid-19 Resilience Medal (CRM), will be presented to around 99,000 individuals and 800 teams. These individuals made significant contributions to managing the crisis, and their names will be announced later. This recognition is a testament to the dedication and sacrifice shown by those who helped Singapore overcome the challenges of the pandemic.
