His Majesty King Abdullah on Sunday bestowed medals on several national institutions and leading figures in recognition of their efforts in building the country and advancing its development.

The Royal gesture, which has become an annual custom observed during the celebrations marking the Kingdom’s Independence Day, came in appreciation of their achievements.

Her Majesty Queen Rania, His Royal Highness Crown Prince Hussein and senior officials and officers attended the ceremony, which was held at the Royal Hashemite Court.

Honourees included Prime Minister Abdullah Ensour, who was awarded the Order of Al Nahda of the First Class, in recognition of his efforts in public service in the various positions that he has assumed.

The Princess Sumaya University for Technology, the Jordan Food and Drug Administration and the National Centre for Human Rights were awarded the Independence Order of the First Class. 

Moreover, Sheikh Mohammad Amin Keilani and Father Nabil Haddad were awarded Independence Order of the First Class.

Winners of the Order of Al Hussein for Distinguished Contributions of the First Class were academic and historian Yousef Ghawanmeh, researcher and inventor Ayman Maaytah, and former Social Development Ministry employee Fatima Hmoud, who currently works at Queen Rania's Office.

Public servant Taha Khawaldeh, youth activist Hanan Neimat, women's rights activist Firyal Saleh, journalist Saad Silawi and social activist Rana Dajani received the Order of Al Hussein for Distinguished Contributions of the Second Class.

Ayda Shishani, an advocate for the rights of people with disabilities, social activist Haj Ibrahim Hanaqtah and retired serviceman and Royal Court official Khleif Rheibeh also received the Order of Al Hussein for Distinguished Contributions of the Second Class.

The Order of Al Hussein for Distinguished Contributions was first issued by His Majesty King Hussein on 29 March 1997. It is granted to "those who have made distinguished contributions to society".

The medal is "unique" in that it can be bestowed on any person for any distinguished contribution in any area without limitations.