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His Excellency Dr. Abdullah bin Nasser Al Harrasi, Minister of Information, affirmed the supreme concern of HM The Sultan Haitham bin Tarik, may Allah protect and preserve him, for all that serves the nation and the citizen, and His Majesty’s care for his sons and daughters across the various governorates of the Sultanate of Oman.
During his guest appearance today on the programme Sabah Al Shabab on Sultanate of Oman Radio, His Excellency stated that the indicators and achievements realized in the Sultanate of Oman over the past 6 years reflect this supreme concern and care, which have been embodied in tangible improvement across a number of areas, particularly social, economic, and financial. He noted that global indicators and research centers concerned with studying international developments have commended what the Sultanate of Oman has achieved during this period.
His Excellency emphasized that almost no address or meeting by HM The Sultan, may Allah protect and preserve him, is devoid of stressing the importance of confronting negative social and cultural phenomena within this open space. He explained that His Majesty, may Allah grant him glory, directed during a Council of Ministers meeting that behavioral changes within society be studied and diagnosed, and that clear policies and mechanisms be developed within a governance framework. This reflects a civilized, forward-looking leadership mindset of a leader deeply concerned with all matters related to the interests of the nation and its people.
His Excellency added that modern means of communication have brought about a fundamental transformation in the world, a change that is not entirely negative. When used properly, these platforms can serve as effective tools for social upbringing, communication, self-development, strengthening social relations, and enhancing institutional performance.
He pointed out that alongside this development, negative by-products of technological advancement and modern communication tools have begun to emerge, observable within households and society. These have contributed to widening the gap between generations, as if we are facing 2 different worlds, that of parents and older generations, and that of youth and younger generations. He explained that although older generations may not possess the same level of technical expertise, their life experience remains a fundamental and important pillar, even in the era of advanced technologies and artificial intelligence. He clarified that the statement issued by the Council of Ministers aims to protect youth from potential negative impacts that could affect their present capabilities and future prospects.
His Excellency explained that some countries have begun taking steps to regulate the use of social media for those below a certain age, stressing that this does not mean a complete ban on internet use. Rather, it entails regulating the use of certain applications that may be harmful, while keeping educational and cultural resources accessible.
He noted that the world’s entry into the era of artificial intelligence carries significant opportunities, while also imposing challenges. He explained that these technologies are based on big data and rapid processing, which represents an important positive development. However, they may be misused in the absence of human awareness. He affirmed that HM The Sultan, may Allah protect and preserve him, consistently points out areas of risk while simultaneously drawing attention to the considerable positive potential of this field.
His Excellency further noted that amid the rapid global changes and political and intellectual fluctuations witnessed worldwide, the Sultanate of Oman remains a stable country that moves forward with confidence and balance, placing the human being at the heart of its priorities. This is in contrast to a world experiencing uncertainty and instability. He affirmed that Oman has not been affected by this global imbalance and has remained an oasis of stability thanks to its wise leadership, balanced approach, and policies grounded in rationality, calm, and non-alignment with conflicts or polarizations.
His Excellency the Minister of Information affirmed that this approach is what built Oman, protected it, and enabled it to navigate steadily through a turbulent world. He noted that the clarity of purpose at the leadership level, centered on serving the nation and the citizen, protecting people, and safeguarding stability, is reflected in tangible results on the ground.
He added that the Sultanate of Oman is today proceeding confidently into the 7th year of its renewed renaissance, with balance and a clear vision that places the human being at the core of development, addresses challenges with awareness, responds to change with wisdom, and looks to the future with firm faith in the capabilities of this nation and its people.