Muscat – In 2023, a group of exceptional Omanis brought laurels to the country through various achievements in innovation, sports, and social development.

His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik recognised these accomplishments by awarding 13 Omanis with the Royal Commendation Medal, Second Class, last week.

Among the awardees, Razan Hamad al Kalbani, known for her research and innovation, has been celebrated both locally and internationally. She recently won the first prize at the Korea International Women’s Innovations Exhibition for her ‘X-ray absorbing coating from a natural ingredient’ innovation.

Additionally, Razan has been bestowed with the GCC Order of Excellence (2nd Class), among other accolades.

In her conversation with Muscat Daily, Razan expressed her gratitude. “Receiving the Royal Commendation Medal from His Majesty the Sultan is a great honour. This recognition is a motivation to further my efforts in innovation and uplift Oman’s reputation globally,” she said.

She added, “I pray God to help me repay the debt to this generous country, which continues to shower us with its bounties.”

Ahmed al Harthi, a notable figure in international motor racing, has also been acknowledged. With titles like the 2019 European Blancpain Championship Cup and the 2022 Le Mans Championship under his belt, Ahmed sees this commendation as a crowning achievement.

“Being recognised by His Majesty Sultan Haitham is a dream come true.”

He added that representing the country in the best possible way with the best possible results has always been the most important goal, and “this recognition tops any trophy I’ve ever received”.

“This is a medal for the entire sporting community as well as everyone who has been by my side for the past 17 years, family, sponsors and the general public. It will motivate me to continue to push and achieve more results in the coming years. I also believe this will inspire more young athletes to peruse their dreams.”

Said al Muqaimi, recognised for his public initiatives and social responsibility, has been instrumental in developing a road project that significantly reduced travel distance between the governorates of South Sharqiyah and North Sharqiyah.

The project reduced the journey from Halloot in the Niyabat of Tiwi to Al Aud in the wilayat of Wadi Bani Khalid from 200km to just 10km.

Upon receiving the Royal Commendation Medal, Muqaimi said, “It’s an honour to be recognised by His Majesty Sultan Haitham. This encourages continued efforts in community building. I hope our work inspires Omani youth towards volunteerism and fosters a culture of social solidarity.”

Muqaimi recounted that he started work on widening some parts of the road and pave some of it with cement, especially at crossroads and near wadis.

“I hope that private institutions will support us financially to complete the road expansion. I urge Omani youth to participate in volunteer work to achieve social solidarity in the society.”