Penang: Chief Secretary to the Government (KSN) Tan Sri Shamsul Azri Abu Bakar described the Darjah Panglima Pangkuan Negeri (DPPN) award he received today as a source of motivation to continue strengthening and driving the public service towards greater heights. He conveyed his deepest appreciation to the Yang Dipertua Negeri of Penang, Tun Ramli Ngah Talib, for conferring the award, which carries the title ‘Datuk Seri’.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Shamsul Azri expressed that the award further strengthens his resolve to improve the public service to a higher level of excellence. He made this brief statement when speaking to reporters after the investiture ceremony held in conjunction with Tun Ramli’s 84th birthday celebration at Dewan Seri Pinang. Shamsul Azri also called on all civil servants to carry out their duties with dedication and always be ready to serve the people and the country.

Shamsul Azri led the list of 280 recipients of state awards, honours, and medals. Among others, Penang Malay Association president Tan Sri Dr Mohd Yussof Abdul Latiff and MMAG Holdings Berhad Executive Chairman Datuk Farhash Wafa Salvador were also conferred the DPPN award.

This year’s investiture ceremony, held over four days until July 30, will see 150 individuals receiving state orders and 1,380 others being awarded medals and honorary titles. The governor’s birthday celebration commenced with a 17-gun salute, an inspection of the parade and guard of honour, followed by the investiture of the state awards, medals, and honours.