Dr Tony Tan Keng Yam, President of the Republic of Singapore (2011 - 2017) was awarded the Royal Society King Charles II Medal in 2014.
Sir Paul Nurse, former President of the Royal Society, said:
"President Tan has been associated with a transformation in Singaporean research and education over the course of his career, and has served the scientific community in many roles. Singapore has proved to be one of the success stories of global science and innovation and it is widely recognised as one of the world’s leading nations in science and mathematics education. The Royal Society is delighted to be able to recognise the contribution President Tan has made to science and education in Singapore today."
Premier Wen Jiabao of China was awarded the Royal Society King Charles II Medal in 2011.
The award
This medal is awarded to foreign Heads of State or Government who have made an outstanding contribution to furthering scientific research in their country.
The award is made only in exceptional circumstances and is normally presented on the occasion of a formal state visit. The first award was made in 1998.
The speeches given by Chancellor Angela Merkel (PDF) and by Mr Wen Jiabao are also available.
The medal is of silver gilt.
Nominations
Unlike for other medals and awards, nominations for the Royal Society King Charles II Medal are not invited. Instead, Fellows may, at any time, propose names of potential recipients to the Physical Secretary alongside a supporting statement. The medal is awarded at the discretion of Council.
