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Kuwait Times
15-05-2025
- Business
- Kuwait Times
Kuwait, Google eye closer tech partnership
KUWAIT: Minister of State for Communications Affairs Omar Al-Omar and Ruth Porat, President and Chief Investment Officer at Alphabet Inc. and its subsidiary Google, pose for a photo with officials. — KUNA KUWAIT: Minister of State for Communications Affairs Omar Al-Omar met Wednesday with Ruth Porat, President and Chief Investment Officer at Alphabet Inc and its subsidiary Google, to discuss ways to strengthen their strategic partnership. According to a statement by the Ministry of Communications to the Kuwait News Agency (KUNA) on Thursday, the meeting, held during Porat's visit to the country, explored opportunities for cooperation in technology and digital investment. It aimed to enhance the strategic partnership in a way that supports accelerating digital integration within government agencies, in line with the ministry's efforts to contribute to achieving Kuwait's development vision, 'New Kuwait 2035.' Earlier this week, Al-Omar had affirmed the ministry's commitment to expanding strategic partnerships with global tech companies, particularly in areas such as cybersecurity and the Internet of Things (IoT), as part of Kuwait's broader vision to become a leading digital hub in the region. Speaking on the sidelines of the 20th Arab Media Forum, Al-Omar noted that the ministry continues to build strong collaborations with major international firms like Google Cloud and Microsoft, aiming to accelerate digital transformation across government entities. He explained that these partnerships include training and certification programs for national talent, providing young Kuwaitis with professional credentials in cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and digital technologies. The minister emphasized that the goal is to transform Kuwait into a regional center for the digital economy by fostering innovation and promoting entrepreneurship in the tech sector. This involves strengthening collaboration with universities, the private sector, and international organizations to create an integrated ecosystem that supports innovation and accelerates knowledge transfer. On the infrastructure front, Al-Omar stated that the ministry is actively working on developing the telecommunications sector in line with the 'New Kuwait 2035' vision, through the expansion of 5G technology and the optical fiber network. These strategic investments pave the way for future technologies such as IoT, advanced computing, and big data. He also highlighted Kuwait's continued efforts, represented by the Communication and Information Technology Regulatory Authority (CITRA), to diversify international internet connectivity routes through advanced land and sea cables. These initiatives aim to provide high reliability and security standards, positioning Kuwait as a key data exchange hub between the region and the world. — KUNA
Gulf Today
14-05-2025
- Politics
- Gulf Today
AI key ‘component' of modern media operations
Arab ministers of information, senior officials, and media experts affirmed that the media landscape in the Arab world is undergoing a profound transformation driven by rapid advancements in the digital sphere. This necessitates a rethinking of media policies and the development of comprehensive Arab digital strategies that keep pace with emerging changes, laying the foundation for digital media that reinforces cultural identity and addresses key challenges. These insights were shared during a ministerial session organised by TRENDS Research & Advisory in collaboration with the 20th Arab Media Forum, held in Kuwait under the theme: "Media and the Virtual World: Transformations of the Media Landscape in the Digital Age". The session featured Dr. Ramzan Al-Noaimi, Bahrain's Minister of Information; Paul Morcos, Lebanon's Minister of Information; Ahmed Al-Muslimani, Chairman of the National Media Authority in Egypt; and Dr. Mohammed Abdullah Al-Ali, CEO of TRENDS. It was moderated by Dr. Nader Karam. In his remarks during the session, Dr. Al-Ali emphasised that the media is undergoing an unprecedented transformation driven by the digital revolution. He noted that media is no longer confined to traditional outlets, but has become an open space where everyone participates, from individuals to corporations, from digital influencers to robots. Artificial intelligence, he explained, has become a central component in modern media operations, from analysing audience behaviour to content creation, combating fake news. Dr. Al-Ali highlighted that there are now over 4.7 billion active social media users worldwide and nearly 5 billion internet users, underscoring the urgent need for media strategies that can adapt to these massive shifts in audience behaviour and access channels. Dr. Al-Noaimi stated that the rapid transformations taking place globally today require a parallel media movement that adopts renewed strategies to foster creativity and innovation while preserving national values and principles. He called for the adoption of joint Arab media strategies that support the development and elevation of digital content. Unified Arab vision Morcos reiterated the pivotal moment the Arab media landscape is experiencing amid rapid technological advancement and digital transformation. He highlighted the fundamental shifts in communication structures and the evolution of the audience into an active partner in content creation. He called for a unified Arab vision to reform the media sector, proposing the establishment of an Arab fund to support digital media, the launch of a regional media training centre, and the creation of an Arab observatory for digital media ethics. Morcos emphasised the importance of shifting from a reactive approach to a proactive one in content creation. Al-Muslimani explained that the unprecedented volume of information generated by artificial intelligence tools is now reshaping traditional soft power tools. At the conclusion of the session, participants put forward a set of key recommendations, including: establishing Arab digital platforms to counter the influence of foreign media platforms on local audiences; launching regional initiatives to verify news and combat media disinformation; and investing in creative and entertainment content that resonates with Arab youth. Additionally, preparing a new generation of digital journalists equipped with technical and fact-checking skills; strengthening collaboration between media institutions and think tanks to produce reliable content aligned with rapid technological transformations; supporting the protection of Arab intellectual property; and encouraging regional and international media partnerships. WAM
Kuwait Times
13-05-2025
- Politics
- Kuwait Times
Forum discusses media psychology and digital transformation
KUWAIT: The 20th Arab Media Forum concluded on Monday, wrapping up a dynamic agenda with five dialogue sessions that addressed key issues shaping the regional media landscape. Topics discussed included the psychological behavior of media users, the representation of women in the media sector, and the legal frameworks governing traditional and digital media platforms. The final day commenced with a session titled 'Psychological Behavior in Media and Social Media', featuring psychiatrist Dr Mohab Mujahid and prominent media figure Mustafa Agha, moderated by Rahaf Al-Sawalha. Speakers explored the deep intersection between media and human psychology, emphasizing the media's powerful influence on collective awareness and emotional states. The panel examined how media content can either instill reassurance or incite anxiety, depending on how messages are framed and disseminated across digital platforms. Dr Mujahid shed light on the rising trend of 'fabricated negativity' on social media, describing it as an addictive behavior in which users intentionally provoke or shock to draw attention. Meanwhile, Agha emphasized the importance of constructive dialogue, urging respect for differing opinions and discouraging personal attacks, noting that diversity of thought should foster discussion — not division. In a session titled 'Journalism... An Endless Profession', speakers delved into the future of journalism amid rapid digital evolution. The panel featured Mahmoud Al-Mamlouk, Editor-in-Chief of Cairo 24, and Rashid Al-Hamar, Editor-in-Chief of Bahrain's Al-Ayam newspaper, with moderation by Sultan Al-Qahtani, Editor-in-Chief of Riyadh Post. Discussions focused on the increasing challenges posed by social media's dominance and the urgent need for traditional outlets to pivot towards impactful digital content. Al-Mamlouk underscored the fierce competition between digital journalism and social platforms, while Al-Hamar called for strategic transformations to modernize legacy media through robust social media engagement. The third session, 'Women and the Media: Mental Image and Professional Skills', highlighted the evolving role of women in the media sector. The panel included former Egyptian Minister of Information Dr Doria Sharaf El Din, President of the Emirates Journalists Association Fadhila Al Muaini, Kuwaiti academic Dr Samar Baqer, and Lebanese journalist Lana Madwar, moderated by Emirati Dr Maya Al Hawari. Speakers noted the significant strides made in empowering women to assume leadership roles within media institutions, crediting this shift to cultural evolution, enhanced educational access, and inclusive policy frameworks. The session also addressed how media portrayals influence public perceptions of women and stressed the need for continuous skill development amid a fast-changing media environment. Legal and regulatory dimensions were tackled in the fourth session, 'Laws and Legislation in the Media and Social Media', held in cooperation with the Kuwait Lawyers Association. The session featured Egyptian lawyer Dr Mohamed Abu Shaqa and Kuwaiti legal expert Dr Hussein Al-Abdullah. Participants noted that while freedom of expression is constitutionally protected across much of the Arab world, it must be exercised responsibly and in line with legal boundaries that safeguard public order and individual dignity. The session emphasized the need for ethical compliance and respect for societal norms in digital and traditional media practices. The forum concluded with an open dialogue titled 'Media: Message and Rules', led by Islamic preacher Mustafa Hosni and moderated by Secretary-General of the Forum Madi Al-Khamis. Hosni highlighted the importance of maintaining humility and ethical responsibility in media work, stressing that professionals should remain grounded in spiritual and moral values regardless of their influence or reach. Held under the patronage of His Highness the Prime Minister Sheikh Ahmad Al-Abdullah Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah, the 20th edition of the Arab Media Forum was launched on Saturday under the theme 'Media Challenges in Light of Technological Development and Digital Transformation.' The event witnessed wide participation from across the Arab world, with the United Arab Emirates honored as the guest of this year's session. — KUNA
Kuwait Times
11-05-2025
- Politics
- Kuwait Times
Kuwait hailed as a beacon of regional media leadership
KUWAIT: Minister of Information, Culture, and Minister of State for Youth Affairs Abdulrahman Al-Mutairi praised Kuwait's selection as the Capital of Arab Culture and Media for 2025, which represents a well-deserved recognition of its pioneering role in supporting Arab media, strengthening cultural identity, and reinforcing professional values. Speaking at the opening of the 20th Arab Media Forum that was held on Saturday under the theme 'Media Challenges in the Era of Technological Advancement and Digital Transformation', the minister noted that this designation coincides with the current forum session, giving it special momentum to continue delivering the media message with advanced vision and collective responsibility. He emphasized that digital media has become the main driver of societal trends, an effective tool in shaping public opinion, building awareness, and enhancing interaction between individuals and institutions, stressing the importance of adapting to rapid technological transformations with professional competence and strategic foresight for a more advanced media future. He highlighted Kuwait's continued leadership, crediting the support of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, HH the Crown Prince Sheikh Sabah Al-Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Sabah and HH the Prime Minister Sheikh Ahmad Al-Abdullah Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah for consolidating Kuwait's media position through strengthened infrastructure and strategic initiatives. Among the most notable of these initiatives, he said, was the launch of a virtual reality documentation platform that archives Kuwait's cultural and media heritage for future generations, blending authenticity with modernity. The Minister expressed pride in the United Arab Emirates being chosen as the guest of honor, calling it a 'Well-deserved choice for a country that has made a clear mark in supporting Arab media, embracing the latest technologies, and producing content that reflects its regional and global leadership.' He added that the Arab Media Forum has become a dynamic platform for addressing media issues and sharing expertise, stating 'This year's edition will explore the challenges posed by artificial intelligence and digital platforms. And there is a need to develop professional and legislative frameworks that align with these changes.' Minister of Information,Abdulrahman Al-Mutairi speaks at the event. Photos by Yasser Al-Zayyat. Abdulla bin Mohammed bin Butti Al-Hamed, Chairman of the National Media Office and Chairman of the UAE Media Council Secretary-General of the Arab Media Forum Madi and the Minister of Information honor Zain Kuwait's Chief Corporate Affairs and Relations Officer Waleed Al Khashti. For his part, Abdulla bin Mohammed bin Butti Al-Hamed, Chairman of the National Media Office and Chairman of the UAE Media Council, called for the adoption of a joint Arab media legislative framework to curb the negative use of digital platforms, emphasizing the need to promote social responsibility and protect freedom of expression from abuse and misinformation. He expressed the UAE's pride in being named the guest of honor and extended his appreciation to the leadership of Kuwait, especially His Highness the Amir, the Crown Prince and the Prime Minister, for this generous gesture. Al-Hamed emphasized that the UAE's media strategy is rooted in a firm belief that the media is a key development partner, reflecting current achievements and envisioning future possibilities, noting that the UAE is working to develop a modern media system that aligns with global progress and expresses Islamic, Arab and human values. Despite the opportunities presented by social media, he warned of the dangers of misuse, particularly in spreading rumors, inciting division, and threatening societal stability, stressing the need for Arab cooperation to confront such challenges. He concluded by stating that the media is a civilizational weapon and an effective tool for enlightenment and influence, urging it to be used as a bridge for communication between nations and a foundation for building a bright future for the region. In his remarks, Secretary-General of the Arab Media Forum Madi Abdullah Al Khamis praised its leadership in Arab media and its vital role in advancing the industry. He reaffirmed that the forum has always worked to build an independent Arab media framework capable of meeting challenges and driving development. Al Khamis pointed out that Arab media today faces unprecedented challenges, especially digital transformation, the rise of numerous platforms, and the blurring of truth and fiction, explaining that these developments require a complete reassessment of the media ecosystem, with a focus on responsibility in communication, maintaining professionalism, and updating media tools. He stated 'The real challenge lies not only in adapting to change, but in leading it with wisdom, vision, and innovation,' concluding by celebrating Kuwait's selection as Capital of Arab Culture and Media, describing it as 'authentic Arab recognition of Kuwait's deep-rooted role in supporting free thought and media leadership.'
