President Dr Mohamed Waheed has conferred The Most Honourable Order of Distinguished Rule of Ghaazee, which is the highest national award, to President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom. The award was conferred at a special function held atJumhooree Maidhaan on the occasion of the 48th anniversary of Independence of Maldives.

President Gayoom was awarded the medal in recognition of his important contributions to the country during the 30 years of his presidency and his distinguished services to the country before his presidency.

Also at the function, President Waheed conferred the Most Honourable Order of Distinguished Rule of Izzudheen to 4 individuals, The Order of Distinguished Army Service to one individual and The Order of Distinguished Rule of Muleege to 3 individuals.

The Most Honourable Order of Distinguished Rule of Izzudheen was awarded to:

1.Mr Abbas Ibrahim
2.Mr Abdul Rasheed Hussain
3.Ms Aneesa Ahmed
4.Mr Ismail Fathee

The Order of Distinguished Army Service was awarded to Major General (Retired) Mohamed Zahir.

The Order of Distinguished Rule of Muleege was awarded to:
1.Mr Champaa Hussain Afeef
2.Mr Qasim Ibrahim
3.Mr Champaa Mohamed Moosa.