Singapore diplomat, Myanmar activist and Bangladeshi aid giver win Magsaysay awards

The Ramon Magsaysay Awards for 2026 have been announced, recognizing individuals who have shown "greatness of spirit" through their selfless service to people across Asia. The prestigious awards, often considered Asia's version of the Nobel Prize, were bestowed upon a Singaporean lawyer and diplomat, a Myanmar activist, and a former Bangladeshi teacher.

Singaporean Tommy Koh, 88, was honored for his role in leading the adoption of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, a significant treaty that defined territorial waters, economic rights, and dispute resolution mechanisms for maritime nations. Koh presided over a U.N. conference attended by over 150 countries, which resulted in the adoption of the convention in 1982.

This treaty has played a crucial role in shaping international maritime law, particularly in resolving disputes such as China's claims in the South China Sea. The awards will be presented on November 15 at the Metropolitan Theatre in Manila, accompanied by a medallion, inscribed certificate, and an undisclosed cash prize.

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