Eligibility and Selection Criteria for National Day Awards Nomination

Ms Anthea Ong asked the Prime Minister (a) what is the eligibility and selection criteria for nominations for National Day Awards; (b) who can nominate and what is the end-to-end award process; (c) whether there is a fixed number of awards given out for each category every year and, if yes, what are they; and (d) what is the total number of awards given to grassroots leaders every year.

The eligibility criteria for National Day Awards are governed by the various gazetted medal rules. Individuals who have rendered outstanding public service or distinguished themselves in the field of arts and letters, sports, the sciences, business, the professions and the labour movement are eligible for National Day Awards. We also have awards that recognise public and military officers for gallantry, distinguished service or long service. The type of award which individuals may be eligible for depends on their achievements, contributions and service.

Every year, the Prime Minister's Office invites nominations from the public and non-public sector through Ministries, Organs of State and Advisors of Grassroots Organisations. The nominations are then evaluated by various committees. The final shortlist is submitted for the President’s approval.

The medal rules do not cap the number of awards except for the Medal of Honour, which is limited to four in any one year, the Certificate of Honour which is limited to six in any one year and the Order of Temasek (With High Distinction) which is limited to 12 recipients. Notwithstanding this, to ensure the prestige of the other awards and that only the most deserving are awarded, we cap the number that agencies can put up where practical. The caps vary depending on the pool of eligible candidates and the awards.

The total number of awards given to grassroots leaders ranged from 189 to 191 between 2016 and 2019.