
Experts urge strategic use of new media in shaping Omani identity
Muscat – Ministry of Information on Monday hosted a dialogue session – titled 'New Media and its Role in Shaping Community Culture' – as part of the ongoing 29th Muscat International Book Fair. The session brought together academics, media experts and cultural stakeholders to explore the evolving influence of digital platforms on societal values and national identity.
Key topics of discussion included the impact of new media on intellectual and social dynamics, and the importance of harnessing these tools to promote positive values and enhance cultural consciousness.
Hilal bin Salim al Hilali, media expert, consultant and General Manager of Funoon Electronic Radio, said Oman's cultural richness presents both a challenge and an opportunity in today's fast-evolving media landscape.
'We are at a critical juncture in the media scene,' Hilali said. 'Modern technologies such as podcasts and digital platforms open new horizons for highlighting our cultural wealth. These tools can enhance media presence across artistic, social, educational and health sectors, thereby supporting comprehensive media awareness.'
He stressed the need for an advanced media system rooted in the sultanate's rich knowledge base, urging professionals to develop innovative programming that aligns with global trends. He also underlined the importance of empowering youth through media-focused workshops and educational initiatives that foster responsible engagement with digital content.
Dr Khamis bin Salim Ambusaidi, Assistant Professor of Digital Media at University of Technology and Applied Sciences, Nizwa said social media has significantly influenced cultural identity and public awareness.
'This places a responsibility on us to guide these platforms in ways that serve societal interests and uphold our values,' he said, advocating media literacy to be integrated into school curricula.
Ambusaidi warned of the growing influence of social media personalities on youth and the importance of nurturing critical thinking to help young users assess content more discerningly.
Hashtags

Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles


Muscat Daily
24-05-2025
- Muscat Daily
Oman launches nationwide survey on radio, TV content
By OUR CORRESPONDENT Muscat – The National Centre for Statistics and Information (NCSI) has launched a nationwide survey to assess public satisfaction with the content aired on Oman's radio and television channels. The survey, which began on May 18 and is to run till June 18, is being conducted via phone calls from the number 24070515, between 8am and 2pm. The initiative aims to evaluate the quality and diversity of programming, gauge audience preferences, and assess engagement levels with existing content. It also seeks to determine how well the programmes reflect public expectations. According to NCSI, the survey is part of efforts to strengthen communication between the Ministry of Information and the public by involving citizens directly in the development of media content. The poll targets Omani citizens aged 18 and above, across all governorates, and includes both men and women.


Muscat Daily
29-04-2025
- Muscat Daily
Experts urge strategic use of new media in shaping Omani identity
Muscat – Ministry of Information on Monday hosted a dialogue session – titled 'New Media and its Role in Shaping Community Culture' – as part of the ongoing 29th Muscat International Book Fair. The session brought together academics, media experts and cultural stakeholders to explore the evolving influence of digital platforms on societal values and national identity. Key topics of discussion included the impact of new media on intellectual and social dynamics, and the importance of harnessing these tools to promote positive values and enhance cultural consciousness. Hilal bin Salim al Hilali, media expert, consultant and General Manager of Funoon Electronic Radio, said Oman's cultural richness presents both a challenge and an opportunity in today's fast-evolving media landscape. 'We are at a critical juncture in the media scene,' Hilali said. 'Modern technologies such as podcasts and digital platforms open new horizons for highlighting our cultural wealth. These tools can enhance media presence across artistic, social, educational and health sectors, thereby supporting comprehensive media awareness.' He stressed the need for an advanced media system rooted in the sultanate's rich knowledge base, urging professionals to develop innovative programming that aligns with global trends. He also underlined the importance of empowering youth through media-focused workshops and educational initiatives that foster responsible engagement with digital content. Dr Khamis bin Salim Ambusaidi, Assistant Professor of Digital Media at University of Technology and Applied Sciences, Nizwa said social media has significantly influenced cultural identity and public awareness. 'This places a responsibility on us to guide these platforms in ways that serve societal interests and uphold our values,' he said, advocating media literacy to be integrated into school curricula. Ambusaidi warned of the growing influence of social media personalities on youth and the importance of nurturing critical thinking to help young users assess content more discerningly.


Muscat Daily
28-04-2025
- Muscat Daily
Booklet launched on child safety awareness at Muscat book fair
Muscat – Children First Association launched an awareness booklet, I am Aware , on Monday during the 29th Muscat International Book Fair as part of its continuing efforts to advocate child safety and rights. The launch was held under the patronage of H H Sayyida Dr Mona Fahad Mahmood al Said, Assistant Vice-Chancellor of International Cooperation at Sultan Qaboos University and Chairperson of the association. Speaking at the event, H H Sayyida Mona said the association is committed to safeguarding children from all forms of abuse and violence. 'This booklet reflects our continued efforts to educate children and their caregivers through development projects, activities and informative publications,' she said. Designed with child-friendly illustrations, the booklet seeks to raise awareness about harassment and empower children with accessible knowledge. Explaining the core message of the publication, Amal Khalifa al Shamakhiya, a certified human rights trainer from United Nations Training and Documentation Centre and the booklet's author, said, 'The idea behind I am Aware is rooted in the belief that child abuse leaves lasting psychological scars and that silence only deepens the pain.' She added, 'This booklet adopts a simplified, interactive format to teach children about their rights and bodily autonomy, and guides them on what to do if they experience inappropriate behaviour.' Interactive features such as colouring activities and multiple-choice questions have been included to reinforce key concepts. The booklet also offers guidance for parents, educators and caregivers, encouraging open conversations with children about personal safety and boundaries.