Omani experts urge to anchor social media use in cultural identity

Muscat Daily

a day ago

Muscat – Social media has become a powerful force shaping public opinion, cultural awareness and personal identity.
Experts in Oman are calling for a collective responsibility to ensure that digital behaviour reflects the country's values and national character.
Dr Sabra bint Saif al Harrasi, academic and educational researcher, said that Omani identity is deeply rooted in a legacy of character and tolerance. 'Whenever the Sultanate of Oman is mentioned, morals come before borders, and character before name,' she said. Quoting a saying attributed to the Prophet Mohammed (PBUH), she noted that Omanis have long been known for their noble conduct and refined speech.
Dr Sabra warned that as digital platforms shape taste and behaviour, preserving cultural identity online has become essential. 'This is not only an educational need but a pillar of cultural security. The content we produce should reflect our heritage and values,' she said.
She stressed that the role of the family remains central. 'There is no digital upbringing without an active family presence. Children learn more from what is practiced at home than what is preached.'
She emphasised the need for conversations over commands, and role models who live the values they promote.
On content creation, Dr Sabra said children should be encouraged to be producers, not just passive consumers. 'When they create, they become more cautious about what they receive.' She called for digital libraries at home and meaningful content archives to shape their preferences.
Dr Amal bint Talib al Jahouri, a researcher in media and cultural affairs, said social media's impact on identity is double-edged. 'It can be a tool to spread pride in national culture or a challenge due to the overlap of global influences,' she said.
She noted that traditional and modern media, guided by Oman Vision 2040, have a responsibility to deliver content that strengthens national identity and educates youth on cultural values. 'Media must counter misinformation by providing reliable information and reinforcing cultural identity in interactive ways.'
She recommended creating spaces for dialogue between generations and empowering youth to lead digital content creation that reflects Omani values.
Qut al Qulub bint Azzan al Hussaini, a social media activist, believes digital influence carries a responsibility. 'Anyone active on these platforms should be an ambassador of our identity. Influence is not a privilege – it's a moral obligation,' she said.
She called for a professional environment to support content creators and emphasised that quality should never be compromised for views. 'We must simplify ideas without diluting their meaning, and connect the younger generation to local and global issues through values-driven content.'
As Oman continues to navigate the digital age, the consensus among experts is clear: Preserving identity online is a shared duty, starting at home and extending through schools, media, and digital platforms.