MACAO, Jan. 25 (Xinhua) -- Macao Chief Executive Edmund Ho Hau Wah Friday presented the annual honors and awards of 2007 to 42 outstanding persons and entities at the city's Cultural Center.

    The recipients came from all walks of life. They were honored or awarded in recognition of their contribution to the development of the special administration region (SAR) or for their dedicated public and community services.

    Macao magnate Stanley Ho Hung Sun and Leong Sut U received the Grand Lotus Medal of Honor, for their contribution to enhancing the SAR's image, reputation and development. Peter Pan and Ngan In Leng were awarded the Golden and Silver Lotus Medals of Honor, respectively.

    Other 19 outstanding individuals and entities were awarded the Medal of Merit in seven categories including profession, industry and commerce, tourism, education, culture, and sport for their distinguished services in promoting the development of relevant sectors in Macao.

    As a sign to support local culture and sports development, a band Tuna Macanese and martial arts athlete Cai Liangchan were included in the 19 recipients, accentuating their persistent effort to pursue music and sports with local cultural characteristics.

    Meanwhile, the Chief Executive also presented Distinguished Service Medal, Commendations of Prestige and of Merit to the rest of the recipients who have fulfilled their duty with excellence and made specific contribution to Macao's development.