2023 National Awards Investiture Citations (English)
THE ORDER OF TEMASEK (WITH HIGH DISTINCTION)
[Darjah Utama Temasek (Dengan Kepujian Tinggi)]
1. MDM HALIMAH YACOB
The Eighth President of the Republic of Singapore
CITATION
Mdm Halimah Yacob served Singapore with singular distinction over four decades.
She broke multiple barriers, blazing a trail for women and achieving many firsts: The first Singaporean to be elected to the Governing Body of the International Labour Organisation (ILO); the first Malay woman to be elected a Member of Parliament (MP); the first female Speaker of Parliament; and the first female to occupy the highest office in the land – President of the Republic of Singapore.
Mdm Halimah began her career in the Labour Movement in 1978. She gave herself to the cause of working people, eventually becoming Deputy Secretary General of the National Trades Union Congress. Over 33 years of devoted service, she contributed extensively to formulating, strengthening and enforcing labour standards, both locally and internationally.
Elected to Parliament in 2001, she served four terms as an MP. As Minister of State in the Ministry of Community Development, Youth and Sports (2011-2012) and later in the Ministry of Social and Family Development (2012-13), she was a relentless champion for many social causes, including opportunities for single mothers and the children of lower-income families, support for persons with mental health conditions, and healthcare for the disabled and elderly.
After serving as Speaker for four years (2013-2017), Mdm Halimah was elected the eighth President of Singapore in 2017. As the Head of State, she raised Singapore’s international image, strengthened the nation’s ties with friends near and far, and opened new economic opportunities for Singapore companies.
She was also a powerful symbol of unity for all Singaporeans; an inspiration to all, young and old; “a President for everyone”, as she promised on her inauguration. Apart from her official duties, Mdm Halimah was the patron to many charitable and welfare organisations. She expanded the President’s Challenge to promote skills upgrading and employment, advocate for more inclusive and accessible workspaces, and support the mental health of young people. She also initiated the International Conference on Cohesive Societies to promote interfaith and multicultural dialogue. Throughout her Presidency, she worked tirelessly to strengthen mutual understanding, trust and respect across diverse communities, and to engage Singaporeans from all walks of life.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Mdm Halimah exercised the President’s custodial power over past reserves on an unprecedented scale, approving a total draw of up to $69 billion. She set a high benchmark of how the President, advised by the Council of Presidential Advisors, should wield the second key. With her rigorous and searching questioning, and her considered and informed support, the Government was able to use past reserves judiciously and decisively to save lives, preserve jobs, and stabilise the economy. History will record Mdm Halimah’s great service to her people as their first Crisis President.
Mdm Halimah’s remarkable journey from humble beginnings to become the first female minority Head of State is testimony that every Singaporean can achieve his or her dream, regardless of race, language, religion, or family background.
For embodying so fully the Singapore Story – and for her lifetime of devoted and distinguished service – Mdm Halimah Yacob is awarded the Order of Temasek (With High Distinction).
THE DISTINGUISHED SERVICE ORDER
[Darjah Utama Bakti Cemerlang]
2. MR BOBBY CHIN YOKE CHOONG
Former Chairperson, Housing & Development Board
CITATION
As Chairman of the Housing & Development Board (HDB), Mr Bobby Chin Yoke Choong led the Board in delivering affordable and accessible public housing to Singaporeans. During his tenure, housing policies and schemes were enhanced, and new housing typologies were introduced.
Mr Chin strengthened the corporate development and governance structures within HDB, championed the transformation of HDB’s workforce, and fostered stronger Management-Union relations. Under his leadership, HDB introduced the Green Finance Framework and launched its inaugural green bond in 2022, affirming HDB’s commitment to sustainable development.
Mr Chin has contributed extensively to Singapore’s governance in various capacities over the years: as a member of the Council of Presidential Advisors; as Chairman of the Urban Redevelopment Authority; and as Chairman of the Medishield Life Review Committee. As Chairman of NTUC FairPrice Co-operative Ltd, Mr Chin played an instrumental role in mitigating the impact of disruptions to Singapore’s food supply.
For his many contributions to Singapore’s development as well as its public housing programme, Mr Bobby Chin Yoke Choong is awarded the Distinguished Service Order.
THE DISTINGUISHED SERVICE ORDER
[Darjah Utama Bakti Cemerlang]
3. MR TIMOTHY JAMES DE SOUZA
Member, Founders’ Memorial Committee
CITATION
As a member of the Presidential Council for Minority Rights, Mr Timothy James De Souza provided wise counsel on matters affecting Singapore’s racial and religious communities.
During his tenure as President (and later Trustee) of the Eurasian Association (EA), EA was accorded Self-Help Group status, expanded its membership through community outreach, and established new social assistance programmes and funds to strengthen the community.
As a member of the Founders’ Memorial Committee, Mr De Souza was instrumental in the Memorial’s conceptualisation, design, and development, and ensuring that the views of Singaporeans were sought.
As founding Chairman of the Pioneer Generation and Merdeka Generation Appeals Panel, Mr De Souza oversaw the review of more than 5,000 appeals, ensuring each was considered thoroughly and empathetically.
As Chairman of the Unmanned Aircraft Systems Advisory Panel, Mr De Souza enabled more robust governance of Singapore’s unmanned aircraft sector.
For his sterling contributions to Singapore across diverse sectors, over three decades, Mr Timothy James De Souza is awarded the Distinguished Service Order.
THE DISTINGUISHED SERVICE ORDER
[Darjah Utama Bakti Cemerlang]
4. MDM KAY KUOK OON KWONG
Former Chairman, National Healthcare Group
Chairman, Governing Board Yale-NUS College
CITATION
As Chairman of the National Healthcare Group (NHG) from 2009 to 2021, Mdm Kay Kuok Oon Kwong steered NHG through major milestones, including the integration of NHG with the Alexandra Health System, NHG’s partnership with the Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine and the development of NHG’s population health efforts. She played a critical role in setting up the National Centre for Infectious Diseases and led NHG in its national COVID-19 responses.
As founding Chair of the Yale-NUS College (YNC) Governing Board, Mdm Kuok guided the growth of YNC as Singapore’s first liberal arts and residential college. She continues to guide YNC through its merger with the University Scholars Programme, to ensure the new college will continue to deliver quality education on a larger scale.
Mdm Kuok’s contributions span multiple sectors, from healthcare to education, tourism, the arts and the environment. She has chaired or served on several boards and councils of community organisations, industry groups and government bodies, including The Courage Fund, NorthLight School, National University of Singapore, National Environmental Agency, Singapore Tourism Board and National Arts Council. In each case, she contributed her experience and expertise, and provided wise counsel and steady leadership.
For her lifetime of outstanding contributions to Singapore, Mdm Kay Kuok Oon Kwong is awarded the Distinguished Service Order.
THE DISTINGUISHED SERVICE ORDER
[Darjah Utama Bakti Cemerlang]
5. MR KWA CHONG SENG
Former Chairman, Singapore Technologies Engineering Ltd
CITATION
As Chairman of ST Engineering, Mr Kwa Chong Seng played a key role in strengthening Singapore’s defence capabilities and preparedness. Cutting-edge systems were delivered to the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) to support its 3rd generation transformation. Operations and maintenance support for SAF platforms were strengthened, enabling a high state of operational readiness and resilience. Mr Kwa was also instrumental in growing critical homegrown technology and engineering manpower and expertise, which were put to good use during the COVID-19 pandemic.
As Deputy Chairman of the Public Service Commission, Mr Kwa guided the selection and development of talent in the Public Service, and enabled a strong pipeline of leaders with the right qualities and values for key appointments. He provided guidance in the review of regulations, policies and processes to improve the disciplinary system in the Public Service and deal with cases more decisively and expeditiously. Mr Kwa was also a Member of the Legal Service Commission and currently serves on the Judicial Service Commission.
For his exceptional contributions to national defence and the Singapore Public Service, Mr Kwa Chong Seng is awarded The Distinguished Service Order.
THE MERITORIOUS SERVICE MEDAL
[Pingat Jasa Gemilang]
6. JUSTICE CHAN SENG ONN
Immediate Past President, Industrial Arbitration Court
CITATION
As President of the Industrial Arbitration Court from Oct 2007 to Jan 2021, Justice Chan Seng Onn presided over several high-profile cases, with his decisions becoming reference points for unions and employers alike across several sectors.
Justice Chan’s awards set the tone for industrial relations at the workplace. Beyond the legal perspective, he would also consider the wider implications of his decisions on industrial relations and industry norms and practices. He was focused on not only resolving the industrial dispute at hand but on preserving good and harmonious workplace relations between unions and managements.
For his significant contributions in reducing industrial disputes at the workplace and in maintaining harmonious industrial relations in Singapore, Justice Chan Seng Onn is awarded the Meritorious Service Medal.
THE MERITORIOUS SERVICE MEDAL
[Pingat Jasa Gemilang]
7. MR LEE FOOK SUN
Chairman, Ensign InfoSecurity
Deputy Chairman, SMRT Corporation
CITATION
Mr Lee Fook Sun played a pivotal role in the growth of Singapore’s cybersecurity ecosystem as the founding Chairman of Ensign Infosecurity. He steered Ensign to develop national cyber capabilities and talents and oversaw its growth into one of Asia's leading cybersecurity companies.
As Deputy Chairman of SMRT Corporation and SMRT Trains, Mr Lee has guided SMRT to achieve a high standard of reliability for its rail services. As former Chairman of the Building and Construction Authority, he led the built environment sector’s transformation efforts in sustainability, productivity and digitalisation.
Following his distinguished service in the Ministry of Defence and the Singapore Armed Forces, Mr Lee spearheaded the establishment of globally competitive businesses in the ST Engineering Group.
For his significant contributions to Singapore’s security and infrastructure development, Mr Lee is awarded the Meritorious Service Medal.
THE MERITORIOUS SERVICE MEDAL
[Pingat Jasa Gemilang]
8. MR MOSES LEE KIM POO
Chairman, Special Needs Trust Company Limited
Chairman, SG Enable Limited
CITATION
As Chairman of the Special Needs Trust Company (since 2019), SG Enable (since 2022) and the Singapore Totalisator Board (from 2013 to 2020), Mr Moses Lee Kim Poo launched many initiatives to strengthen the social service sector, as well as enhance the financial security of persons with special needs, and to support their aspirations. These initiatives include the MUIS Sponsorship Scheme, Gift of A Lifetime Sponsorship Scheme, Tote Board Enabling Lives Initiative and the Goh Chok Tong Enable Fund.
Mr Lee also served as Chairman of the Sentosa Development Corporation (2013-2019). He retired from the Public Service in 2012 after a distinguished career, having served as Permanent Secretary in several ministries – Labour, Community Development, and Health – as well as Commissioner of Inland Revenue.
For his sterling contributions to Singapore’s social service sector and the Public Service, Mr Moses Lee Kim Poo is awarded the Meritorious Service Medal.
THE MERITORIOUS SERVICE MEDAL
[Pingat Jasa Gemilang]
9. MRS OW FOONG PHENG
Permanent Secretary, Ministry of National Development
CITATION
As the Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of National Development (MND), Mrs Ow Foong Pheng led MND and its Statutory Boards in planning and delivering key urban development plans.
She oversaw the Long-Term Plan Review to steward the physical development of Singapore over the next 50 years. She drove efforts to provide affordable and quality public housing, transform the construction industry, and contributed significantly to make Singapore a City in Nature. Mrs Ow also led the Municipal Services Office to improve the delivery of municipal services to residents.
Earlier in her career, as Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Trade & Industry, and as CEO, JTC Corporation, Mrs Ow made significant contributions to Singapore’s economic development. She helped forge Free Trade Agreements to strengthen Singapore’s economic linkages with many countries, and steered JTC to create a more dynamic industrial landscape.
For her many contributions to Singapore’s economic and physical development, Mrs Ow Foong Pheng is awarded the Meritorious Service Medal.
THE MERITORIOUS SERVICE MEDAL
[Pingat Jasa Gemilang]
10. MR QUEK SEE TIAT
President, Council for Estate Agencies
CITATION
As President of the Council for Estate Agencies (CEA), Mr Quek See Tiat provided effective guidance to ensure its relevance as the regulator of real estate agencies. Under his leadership, CEA strengthened its regulatory capability and deepened its partnership with relevant stakeholders to further professionalise the industry. He led the joint CEA-industry taskforce to enhance the industry’s continuing professional development and to formulate the Real Estate Industry Transformation Map.
Mr Quek was a Board member and subsequently Chairman of Building and Construction Authority. He was also a Board member of the Centre for Liveable Cities (CLC) Ltd and is currently a member of CLC’s Advisory Panel to review its strategic direction and key activities.
Drawing on his expertise as a respected accounting professional, Mr Quek served as Chairman of the Accounting Standards Committee of the Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority, as well as Board member and Audit Committee Chairman of the Monetary Authority of Singapore.
For his public service contributions, Mr Quek See Tiat is awarded the Meritorious Service Medal.
THE MERITORIOUS SERVICE MEDAL
[Pingat Jasa Gemilang]
11. PROF TAN THIAM SOON
Institute Professor/Former President, Singapore Institute of Technology
Deputy Chair, Building and Construction Authority
Board Member, Land Transport Authority
CITATION
As President of the Singapore Institute of Technology (SIT) from 2013 to 2021, Prof Tan Thiam Soon steered the establishment and growth of Singapore’s fifth autonomous university. He anchored SIT’s role in SkillsFuture through innovative upskilling pathways for adult learners and workplace learning. He continues to contribute to SIT as Institute Professor.
Prof Tan also serves as Deputy Chairman of the Building and Construction Authority and is a Board member of the Land Transport Authority (LTA). As Chair of LTA’s Safety Governance Advisory Committee and International Panel of Advisors, he provides strategic direction to LTA on engineering and safety matters.
Prof Tan is also the founding Chairman of the Ministry of Defence External Advisory Panel for Environmental Sustainability.
For his significant contributions to Singapore’s education and infrastructure development, Prof Tan Thiam Soon is awarded the Meritorious Service Medal.
THE PUBLIC SERVICE STAR (BAR)
[Bintang Bakti Masyarakat (Lintang)]
THE PUBLIC SERVICE STAR
[Bintang Bakti Masyarakat]
CITATION
We honour today those who have volunteered to serve the community and make better the lives of others. A number of such persons are awarded the Public Service Star (Bar) and the Public Service Star, to recognise the efforts of all those who have helped to make Singapore a better place. A grateful Nation thanks them for their selflessness and contributions.
THE PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION MEDAL (GOLD)
[Pingat Pentadbiran Awam (Emas)]
12. MS TAN GEE KEOW
Permanent Secretary
Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth
CITATION
Ms Tan Gee Keow made outstanding contributions as Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Culture, Community & Youth (MCCY). She drove Whole-of-Government efforts to build a caring, cohesive, and confident Singapore in the fields of arts & culture, sports, youth, charity and citizen engagement, in support of the Singapore Together and Forward Singapore movement. In leading MCCY’s organisational transformation for excellence, she displayed resolve in motivating her people through difficult transitions, thrive in new and ambiguous situations, and identify and realise opportunities to serve Singaporeans better.
THE PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION MEDAL (GOLD)
[Pingat Pentadbiran Awam (Emas)]
13. MS ELAINE NEO POH CHOO
Deputy Secretary (Administration)
MINDEF HQ
Ministry of Defence
CITATION
Ms Elaine Neo Poh Choo has displayed strong leadership and commitment to excellence throughout her public service career. At the Ministry of Defence, she transformed policies, systems and processes in areas including national service, human resources, and finance. She also drove major digitalisation and service improvement efforts. As Chief Executive Officer of the National Library Board previously, she led the revitalisation of physical spaces and the adoption of technology in our libraries.
THE PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION MEDAL (GOLD)
[Pingat Pentadbiran Awam (Emas)]
14. PROF HO TECK HUA
President and Distinguished University Professor,
Nanyang Technological University
Former Senior Deputy President and Provost
Office of the Senior Deputy President and Provost,
National University of Singapore
Ministry of Education
CITATION
As Senior Deputy President and Provost of the National University of Singapore (NUS) from 2018 to 2023, Prof Ho Teck Hua steered NUS towards greater interdisciplinarity, innovative teaching and learning, and lifelong education.
Prof Ho has also provided leadership as the founding executive chair of AI Singapore and an active board member of the National Environment Agency, Government Technology Agency, and National University Health System.
THE PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION MEDAL (GOLD)
[Pingat Pentadbiran Awam (Emas)]
15. MS LAI WEI LIN
Permanent Secretary (Transport Development)
2Permanent Secretary (Finance)
Ministry of Finance
CITATION
Ms Lai Wei Lin has contributed to Singapore’s public finances, land transport, legal ecosystem, and education. She led Singapore’s fiscal responses to growing competition arising from geo-political and international tax developments, and promoted the development of the accountancy sector.
Ms Lai worked to put the public transport system on a path of long-term financial sustainability. She helped develop the Public Defender’s Office, and drove legal technology and other initiatives for our legal hub. She enhanced student support and higher education pathways, and started the National Institute of Early Childhood Development.
THE PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION MEDAL (GOLD)
[Pingat Pentadbiran Awam (Emas)]
16. DC JERRY SEE BUCK THYE
Deputy Commissioner (Policy)
Singapore Police Force
Ministry of Home Affairs
CITATION
Mr Jerry See Buck Thye has served more than 36 years in the Ministry of Home Affairs, holding several senior appointments. As Deputy Commissioner of the Singapore Police Force, he oversees its technological transformation and the strengthening of its processes and systems to tackle crime and help make Singapore the safest place in the world.
He was also the Chief Executive of the then-Casino Regulatory Authority (CRA), and was instrumental in establishing CRA as a leading casino regulator.
THE PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION MEDAL (GOLD)
[Pingat Pentadbiran Awam (Emas)]
17. MRS RENA LEE
Ambassador for Oceans and Law of the Sea Issues
and Chief Executive
Intellectual Property Office of Singapore
CITATION
As Chief Executive of Intellectual Property Office of Singapore, Mrs Rena Lee oversees Singapore's IP Strategy 2030 and has helped expand and strengthen the country’s international IP networks through bilateral engagements. As President of the Intergovernmental Conference since 2018, Mrs Lee ably steered the successful conclusion of negotiations on the marine biological diversity of areas beyond national jurisdiction (BBNJ) agreement on 4 March 2023. She has enhanced Singapore's standing in the international community as a thought leader on law of the sea matters.
THE PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION MEDAL (GOLD)
[Pingat Pentadbiran Awam (Emas)]
18. MR TAN CHOON SHIAN
Former Chief Executive
Workforce Singapore
CITATION
Mr Tan Choon Shian played a pivotal role in formulating strategies and promoting innovation in WSG to help jobseekers and enterprises to overcome workforce challenges. He advocated data and insights-driven decision making for different segments of the workforce and industries, transforming the delivery of career services. As Chief of Operations of the National Jobs Council, he ensured the effective implementation of job-matching operations across multiple agencies and tripartite partners during the COVID-19 pandemic.
THE PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION MEDAL (GOLD)
[Pingat Pentadbiran Awam (Emas)]
19. MR LIM ENG HWEE
Chief Executive Officer
Urban Redevelopment Authority
CITATION
Mr Lim Eng Hwee led the Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) in its Long-Term Plan Review to guide Singapore’s future physical development. He steered development plans for Jurong Lake District and the Rail Corridor, helping to anchor Singapore as a vibrant, sustainable and endearing city. Mr Lim guided URA in supporting the nation’s response to COVID-19, including identifying critical healthcare and accommodation facilities, and partnering stakeholders in the tourism industry’s recovery.
THE PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION MEDAL (GOLD)
[Pingat Pentadbiran Awam (Emas)]
20. MR KENNETH ER BOON HWEE
Deputy Secretary (Planning),
Ministry of National Development (on secondment)
Former Chief Executive Officer, NParks
CITATION
As Chief Executive Officer of NParks, Mr Kenneth Er Boon Hwee led Singapore’s transformation to a City in Nature. He enhanced the conservation of Nature Reserves by creating networks of Nature Parks as buffers and developing Nature Corridors island-wide. He championed a science-based approach to enhance our experience of living with Nature. He strengthened tree and animal management, mitigated human-wildlife conflict, and cultivated community pride in our environment.
THE PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION MEDAL (GOLD)
[Pingat Pentadbiran Awam (Emas)]
21. MR DENIS TANG SIEW TAENG
Director, CPIB
Corrupt Practices Investigation Bureau
Prime Minister’s Office
CITATION
Mr Denis Tang Siew Taeng has made significant contributions in the areas of safety, security and anti-corruption in Singapore. He was pivotal in transforming the Corrupt Practices Investigation Bureau into a digital and knowledge-based organisation, enhancing its operational capabilities and future readiness. He has strengthened partnerships with the private sector and fostered cooperation with foreign anti-corruption agencies. Under his leadership, corruption has been firmly under control in Singapore and the country remains well-regarded internationally for its anti-corruption efforts.
THE PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION MEDAL (GOLD)
[Pingat Pentadbiran Awam (Emas)]
22. MR KOK PING SOON
Former Chief Executive
Government Technology Agency
CITATION
Mr Kok Ping Soon was instrumental in building Government Technology Agency as a key engineering organisation supporting Singapore’s Smart Nation efforts. He led the implementation of the Digital Government Blueprint, the development of key ICT&SS infrastructure such as the Singapore Government Tech Stack, the Government Commercial Cloud, the Government Cyber Security Operations Centre, and digital solutions such as TraceTogether and SafeEntry during COVID-19. During his leadership, citizens’, businesses’ and public officers’ satisfaction with government digital services improved significantly.
THE PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION MEDAL (GOLD) (MILITARY)
[Pingat Pentadbiran Awam (Emas) (Tentera)]
23. VADM AARON BENG YAO CHENG, PPA(G)
Chief of Defence Force
Singapore Armed Forces
CITATION
As Chief of Navy, Vice Admiral (VADM) Aaron Beng Yao Cheng drove the strategic redesign of our Navy, enhanced its operational capabilities and capacity, and strengthened its identity and culture. During the COVID-19 pandemic, VADM Beng led the Navy to maintain maritime security operations, ensuring that Singapore’s critical sea lines of communications were kept open and secure. VADM Beng also fostered defence relations and collaborations with many partner countries through multilateral platforms, professional exchanges and naval exercises.
THE PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION MEDAL (GOLD) (MILITARY)
[Pingat Pentadbiran Awam (Emas) (Tentera)]
24. MG DAVID NEO CHIN WEE, PPA(G), PBS
Chief of Army
Singapore Army
CITATION
As Chief of Army, Major-General (MG) David Neo Chin Wee has maintained a high level of operational readiness in the Army, expanded its range of capabilities, and enhanced its homeland security interoperability with other government agencies. MG Neo also spearheaded the Army 2040 transformation efforts to enhance inter-service integration and operationalise new concepts. As Director Joint Operations, MG Neo directed the SAF’s support of the national COVID-19 effort, while ensuring the smooth continuation of the SAF’s training and operations.
THE PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION MEDAL (SILVER) (BAR)
[Pingat Pentadbiran Awam (Perak) (Lintang)]
THE PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION MEDAL (SILVER)
[Pingat Pentadbiran Awam (Perak)]
THE PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION MEDAL (SILVER) (MILITARY)
[Pingat Pentadbiran Awam (Perak) (Tentera)]
CITATION
A vital part in public administration is the link between the formulation of policy and its implementation. Middle level managers in the public service play this essential role of translating policies into action and processing feedback into useful recommendations. Those who have applied themselves with drive, imagination and dedication to produce outstanding results are honoured today by the award of the Public Administration Medal (Silver).
THE PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION MEDAL (BRONZE) (BAR)
[Pingat Pentadbiran Awam (Gangsa) (Lintang)]
THE PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION MEDAL (BRONZE)
[Pingat Pentadbiran Awam (Gangsa)]
THE PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION MEDAL (BRONZE) (MILITARY)
[Pingat Pentadbiran Awam (Gangsa) (Tentera)]
CITATION
The most well-conceived government policies can fail if public servants who are charged with their implementation falter. Working with neither fear nor favour, dedicated frontline public servants who have consistently given of their best are recognised today with the award of the Public Administration Medal (Bronze).