Bishop Sebastian Francis
By Herald Malaysia
Jul 26 2021
GEORGE TOWN – Bishop Sebastian Francis was among 15 people who received the Darjah Gemilang Pangkuan Negeri (DGPN) award, which carries the title Dato’ Seri.
He was one of 1,036 recipients who received state awards in conjunction with the Yang di-Pertua Negri Tun Abdul Rahman Abbas’ 72nd birthday celebration.
When contacted, Bishop Sebastian said that “the recognition is on behalf of the entire Diocese of Penang and the contribution of all the laity, religious and clergy, together with God’s People”.
The DGPN was first introduced in 1996 and is awarded to individuals who have contributed excellent service to the nation and have very high social status. It is limited to 145 persons at a time, not taking into account non-Malaysians, who may also be honored with this award.
In 2016, Bishop Sebastian received the Darjah Setia Pangkuan Negeri (DSPN) award, which carries the title Dato’, from the Penang State Governor. – Herald Malaysia