[1] It may be awarded to any person who has performed "service of conspicuous merit characterised by resource and devotion to duty, including long service marked by exceptional ability, merit and exemplary conduct within Singapore".

It may also be awarded to any person outside of Singapore under exceptional circumstances.

[2] Recipients are entitled to use the post-nominal letters PJG.

[citation needed] The Singapore Armed Forces equivalent of the award is the Pingat Jasa Gemilang (Tentera).

[3] The Pingat Jasa Gemilang was one of six state awards instituted on 19 April 1962.