Zhong Nanshan, recipient of the Medal of the Republic, arrives at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, Sept. 8, 2020. China started a meeting Tuesday morning in Beijing to commend role models in the country's fight against the COVID-19 epidemic. (Xinhua/Yin Bogu)

The Macao Special Administrative Region (SAR) on Saturday conferred the Decoration of Honor - Grand Lotus, Macao's highest award, to top Chinese COVID-19 expert Zhong Nanshan and former Chief Executive of Macao SAR Chui Sai On for their contributions to the city. 

The announcement came ahead of celebrations marking the 21st anniversary of Macao's return to the motherland on Sunday. 

The Decorations, Medals and Certificates of Merit awarded for 2020 were given to 34 individuals or organizations for their outstanding contributions to Macao's development and distinguished services, according to an annual award list released Saturday. 

The Decoration of Honor - Golden Lotus is the highest award under the Macao SAR honors and awards system, and recognizes lifelong and highly significant contributions to the wellbeing of Macao.

Zhong, the renowned respiratory disease expert, was also awarded Medal of the Republic in September, the highest state honor, from the central government for his outstanding contributions to fighting the COVID-19 epidemic.

Chui served as the second Chief Executive of Macao SAR from 2009 to 2019. 

The government of Macao confers honors every year which are classified into "Grand Lotus," "Golden Lotus," and "Silver Lotus," as well as medals of achievements for professional elite organizations or government departments.

Other entities and individuals who performed well in the fight against the COVID-19 epidemic were also honored. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention of the Health Bureau, the Chest Department of the Earl Yan General Hospital and the Tourism Crisis Management Office have been awarded the Medal of Valor. 

The Medical Director of the Earl Yan General Hospital has been awarded the Medal for Community Service, and the Macao team supporting Africa in fighting COVID-19 was awarded the Certificate of Merit.

The award ceremony will be held in January. 

Global Times