BlackRock, ResMed and Thales chiefs among MNC leaders honoured in National Day Awards
The Straits Times reported that several multinational corporation (MNC) executives, including Larry Fink of BlackRock, Michael Farrell of ResMed, and Patrice Caine of Thales, received Singapore's National Day Awards. These awards recognize significant contributions to Singapore across various sectors such as business, science, and technology. Fink, as CEO of BlackRock, has played a pivotal role in expanding the company's operations in Singapore, positioning it as a key hub for asset management and technological innovation. Farrell has contributed significantly to ResMed's expansion in Singapore, where the company operates its largest manufacturing plant and regional headquarters. Caine has helped establish Singapore as Thales' regional center for digital identity, security, and aviation technologies. Other notable recipients included figures from international organizations and legal institutions, with over 7,491 individuals receiving National Day honors this year.
Chief Justice Sundaresh Menon and former chairman of the Council of Presidential Advisers (CPA) Eddie Teo received Singapore’s highest civilian honour on Sunday (August 9). Both were conferred the Order of Temasek (With Distinction), or Darjah Utama Temasek, marking them as the top recipients of this year’s National Day Awards. The ceremony recognized 7,491 individuals, including 6,624 civilians and 867 military personnel, for their contributions to Singapore. Menon, who will retire from his role as Chief Justice on February 26, 2027, has spent nearly 14 years leading the judiciary since his appointment in November 2012. During his tenure, he implemented significant reforms aimed at strengthening the courts' capabilities. These included driving the digital transformation of the judiciary, establishing the Appellate Division of the High Court to streamline the appeal process, and introducing a therapeutic justice approach in the Family Justice Courts and Youth Courts. His leadership also saw the creation of the Singapore International Commercial Court and the Singapore Judicial College, both designed to enhance judicial education and the efficiency of the legal system. Prime Minister Lawrence Wong praised Menon’s service, stating that under his leadership, the judiciary has earned the trust of Singaporeans and gained the respect of the international legal community. Menon acknowledged the honor, calling it the greatest privilege and honor of his professional life. He emphasized that the development of Singapore’s legal system has been a collective effort involving many hands, and that the government’s unwavering commitment to the rule of law since independence has laid the groundwork for the nation’s current success. Eddie Teo, who retired from the CPA on June 1, 2026, after serving as its chairman since 2019, was also honored with the Order of Temasek. Teo had a long career in the Singapore public service, beginning in 1970 with the Ministry of Defence’s Security and Intelligence Division. He rose to become its director in 1979 and held the position until 1994. Concurrently, he led the Internal Security Department in the Ministry of Home Affairs from 1982 to 1986. Later, he served as Singapore’s High Commissioner to Australia and as chairman of the Public Service Commission from 2008 to 2018. Teo expressed deep gratitude for the honor, saying it was a great privilege to be recognized for his 56 years of public service. He recalled the early years of his career as the most formative, having worked alongside Singapore’s pioneering leaders such as Lee Kuan Yew, Goh Keng Swee, and former president S R Nathan. These experiences, he said, inspired him to dedicate himself fully to the service of Singapore. His time as CPA chairman was particularly notable, especially during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. At that time, the government made one of the largest draws from past reserves, approximately $40 billion, to stabilize the economy, protect businesses, and preserve jobs without incurring substantial public debt. Teo highlighted the collaborative efforts between then-president Halimah Yacob and the CPA in approving the emergency funding, ensuring swift and effective action. Beyond the top honors, other recipients of this year’s awards included prominent figures from the corporate sector. Leaders of multinational corporations such as BlackRock, ResMed, and Thales were recognized with the Public Service Star for their contributions to Singapore. BlackRock chairman and CEO Larry Fink, for instance, has played a crucial role in advising Singapore’s Monetary Authority on global economic trends and technological advancements. ResMed’s CEO Michael Farrell has been pivotal in expanding the company’s footprint in Singapore, making it a regional hub for innovation and medical technology. Similarly, Thales’ CEO Patrice Caine has contributed significantly to the company’s expansion in Singapore, focusing on digital identity, security, and aviation solutions. The National Day Awards also acknowledged individuals from diverse sectors, including former heads of international organizations, legal professionals, and diplomats. Among them were Salvatore Sciacchitano, former president of the Council of the International Civil Aviation Organization, and Lucy Ferguson Reed, president of the Singapore International Arbitration Centre Court. Additionally, Chua Chia-yi, Singapore’s honorary consul-general in Toronto, received the award for her diplomatic service. Vice-Admiral Aaron Beng, Chief of Defence Force, was the sole recipient of the Meritorious Service Medal (Military), recognizing his contributions to Singapore’s defense capabilities. The conferral of these awards underscores the breadth of contributions made by Singaporeans and foreign nationals alike to the nation’s progress. As the country continues to navigate challenges and opportunities, the recognition of these individuals serves as a testament to the enduring value of dedication, leadership, and service.
★
Keep the news honest.
ObjectiveNews is reader-funded and ad-free — we show you the bias instead of hiding it. Support independent journalism for €4/month.
Become a Supporter
SG
