Amman, May 26 (Petra) – Each year, as Jordan marks its Independence Day, His Majesty King Abdullah II honors outstanding citizens whose dedication and contributions have played a key role in the country’s progress. The royal honors are a tribute to their efforts in reinforcing Jordan’s development and its distinguished presence across various sectors.

Honorees of the Kingdom’s 79th Independence Day told the Jordan News Agency (Petra) that the royal recognition inspires them to redouble their efforts in service of Jordan’s advancement.

Former Minister of State for Media Affairs Sameeh Maaytah, who was awarded the Order of Independence (First Class), described the recognition as an eternal moral honor and a royal acknowledgment of a media career spent defending Jordan against orchestrated campaigns and misinformation. He emphasized that the award also celebrates the collective effort of those who worked alongside him for the nation.

Sahel Hyari, recipient of the King Abdullah II Order of Distinction (Second Class), called the honor “a great privilege.” Recognized for his global contributions to architecture and recipient of the 2024 Arab Pioneers Award, Al-Hayari said the recognition affirms that “our work is visible both at home and abroad” and carries a responsibility to continue promoting Jordan’s name through commitment and excellence.

Field correspondent for Al Mamlaka TV, Basel Attar, who was honored for his coverage of the situation in Gaza, said the royal recognition is a meaningful gesture that underscores His Majesty’s close attention to developments in Gaza and Jordan’s unwavering support for the Palestinian cause. “This honor belongs to all journalists covering Gaza,” he said, adding that Jordanian journalists have always stood by Palestine, reflecting the Kingdom’s steadfast stance.

Lama Adnani, CEO and co-founder of Adam Wa Mishmish, a children’s cultural and media production company, was awarded the King Abdullah II Order of Distinction. She said the royal honor is both a “great pride and a profound responsibility,” noting that the recognition goes beyond a medal it validates their mission to spread the Arabic language and foster a love for it among children. “This milestone strengthens our resolve to use early education and cultural content as tools for uplifting the Arab nation and building a more conscious, educated future,” she said.

Mohannad Bakri, Director General of the Royal Film Commission, said the First Class Order of Independence granted to the Commission is a proud recognition of its contributions to the Jordanian film industry. “This royal honor is not only a celebration of past achievements but also a powerful motivator to continue working in line with the royal vision of positioning Jordan as a regional and global hub for film production,” he said.

The Commission has supported the production of 35 Jordanian feature films and six co-productions and facilitated the shooting of over 115 international films and 29 global TV series in Jordan. It has generated around $519 million for the national economy and created nearly 134,000 job opportunities through the creative industries sector.

Rev. Khaled Freij, Director General of Theodor Schneller School, said the school’s First Class Order of Independence from His Majesty is a powerful incentive to continue enhancing vocational and technical education. Founded in 1959, the school embraces a vision aligned with the King’s emphasis on the importance of vocational training and its role in national development.

Grand Mufti of the Kingdom, Ahmad Hasanat, said receiving the First Class Order of Independence is a great honor not only for himself but for all scholars and religious institutions in Jordan. He expressed deep gratitude to His Majesty for this distinguished recognition, saying it inspires continued commitment to the values of tolerance, moderation, and the principles of Islam.

“This is not simply a decoration,” he said. “It is a trust that demands we strive to meet the King’s vision of building a principled, faith-driven Jordanian society that upholds national stability and progress.”

Maha Afeef, Assistant Professor at Jordan University of Science and Technology, was awarded the King Abdullah II Order of Distinction (Second Class). She called the honor a proud moment and a clear signal that Jordan recognizes and celebrates scientific research, innovation, and academic excellence.
She said this royal gesture motivates her to pursue further breakthroughs in research and to always work for the betterment of Jordan.

Saeed Nathmi, speaking on behalf of his late father, Nathmi Saeed Ibrahim Gokhosaw, expressed his joy at the posthumous award bestowed on his father in recognition of his contributions to Jordanian sports and sports journalism. A talented goalkeeper and a pioneer in sports broadcasting since the 1960s, Gokhosaw was among the foundational figures in the kingdom’s athletic and media landscapes.

//Petra// AF
26/05/2025 21:21:21