The National Awards Committee has opened nominations for the 2026 National Award for Public Service, with the award criteria published in the Government Gazette.

Nominations will be accepted until 2:00 p.m. on June 11 and must be submitted through the President’s Office online submission portal. The committee has advised applicants to ensure all required information and supporting documents are submitted together with the application form.

The National Award for Public Service is a national honour conferred by President Dr Mohamed Muizzu in recognition of individuals who have served the State for more than 35 years and contributed to the advancement of their institutions through dedicated and sincere service. Recipients of the award will receive a shield, a badge of honour and a commemorative certificate.

According to the committee, nominations may be submitted by Government offices, State-owned enterprises and companies in which the Government holds a majority stake, while individuals may also nominate themselves. The nominee must currently serve or have previously served in the institution submitting the nomination.

The committee stated that nominations will be assessed based on criteria including performance, sincerity in service, contribution to institutional development, professional achievements and active involvement in institutional work. Consideration will also be given to whether any criminal or civil cases are pending against nominees.

Last year, 94 individuals were honoured on Independence Day for completing more than 40 years of service to the State, while a further 97 recipients received the award on Republic Day for serving between 35 and 39 years.