Latest news with #Al-Hajri
Arab Times
22-05-2025
- Arab Times
Son Murders Mother Who Devoted Her Life to Him
KUWAIT CITY, May 22: The Criminal Court is currently hearing a harrowing case involving a 28-year-old Kuwaiti citizen accused of murdering his own mother and fatally injuring his 10-year-old brother in the Sabah Al-Salem area. The accused has reportedly confessed to the crime, stating that he was under the influence of drugs (crystal meth) at the time and attacked his mother after she refused to give him money to buy drugs. According to his statement, the refusal 'drove him crazy,' prompting him to stab his mother to death. When his younger brother witnessed the scene, the accused allegedly turned the knife on him as well, inflicting serious injuries. During a session before the court, Deputy Director of the Jahra Prosecution, Mohammed Talal Al-Hajri, delivered a powerful plea, calling for the maximum penalty—the death sentence—for what he described as a heinous and deeply disturbing crime. 'This is the case of a mother who devoted her life, her health, and her youth to raising her son, only for her life to be ended at his hands,' Al-Hajri told the court. 'There can be no leniency in applying the law to anyone who dares to take a sacred life.' The prosecutor emphasized the overwhelming clarity of the evidence against the accused, describing it as forming 'a fabric of certainty and conviction, without doubt or ambiguity.' He characterized the crime as not merely a violent act, but a betrayal of the fundamental human values of kinship and sanctity of life. 'This was not an enemy killing an enemy, or a rival settling a score,' Al-Hajri said. 'It was a son murdering his own mother. This crime is a wound to the heart of humanity and an affront to divine law. It strips away the sanctity that all religions and moral codes place on life.' Calling it a 'real tragedy' that reflects the depths of human depravity, the prosecution urged the court to deliver a just and firm verdict: 'We ask this honorable court to uphold justice, and to impose the death penalty on the accused. It is the only punishment befitting such a monstrous crime.' The brutal incident has shocked the nation. The 48-year-old mother died at the scene, while the younger brother was left in critical condition following the attack. Authorities have completed their investigation, and the trial continues as the public awaits the court's final judgment.
Kuwait Times
17-05-2025
- Science
- Kuwait Times
Kuwait Society for Geosciences eyes UNESCO Global Geoparks Network listing for key sites
Establishing geological parks aligns with sustainable development objectives KUWAIT: Chairman of the Kuwait Society for Geosciences Dr Mubarak Al-Hajri affirmed that Kuwait is home to several significant geological sites that are eligible for inclusion in the UNESCO Global Geoparks Network. In remarks to Kuwait News Agency (KUNA) on Saturday, Dr Al-Hajri stressed that establishing geological parks in the country aligns with sustainable development objectives, serves as a potential source of national income, and supports the tourism sector. Dr Al-Hajri noted that listing local geological sites under the Global Geoparks Network is a strategic goal for the Society and a vital step in preserving the country's natural and cultural heritage. He emphasized that the initiative could be realized through cooperation with relevant government bodies. Explaining the nature of geological parks, he said they are geographically defined areas known for their unique and diverse geological features, and are managed comprehensively to protect their heritage while promoting sustainable development. These parks support education, tourism, local community participation, and job creation. Subiya geological site that mimics the surface of Mars. Natural laboratories open to students and researchers to study Earth sciences. An attractive site for visitors interested in nature, contributing to strengthening the local economy and raising environmental awareness. 'Geological parks serve as open-air laboratories for students and researchers to explore earth sciences, biodiversity, and climatic history,' he stated. 'They are also attractive destinations for nature enthusiasts, thereby contributing to the local economy and fostering environmental awareness.' Citing international examples, Dr Al-Hajri said many countries have successfully leveraged geological parks to reduce disaster risks and raise public awareness on seismic and volcanic hazards. These parks also serve as sanctuaries for rare ecosystems, helping to safeguard biodiversity. Outlining the Society's vision, Dr Al-Hajri described the project as a national endeavor that requires the collaboration of government entities, private sector partners, civil society organizations, and academic institutions. He highlighted the importance of incorporating cultural and heritage components such as traditional crafts, local cuisine, and community-led activities that support sustainability while protecting fragile sites from neglect or misuse. Among the sites identified for the initial phase of the project is Al-Subiya, which Dr Al-Hajri described as one of the most promising candidates due to its historical significance, links to the ancient Ubaid civilization, and its rich environmental and ecological diversity. He explained that the implementation process involves several stages, including evaluating candidate sites based on their geological, environmental, and cultural value; ensuring connectivity among them to form a cohesive geological network; and developing necessary infrastructure such as visitor trails, signage, and information centers. Certain areas would be open to visitors while others would be protected to maintain ecological balance. The plan also includes forming a multidisciplinary site management team comprising geologists, environmentalists, cultural experts, and tourism professionals, in addition to establishing monitoring systems to prevent environmental violations or degradation. Future phases will involve launching educational and training programs, organizing tourism-related activities, collaborating with international geoparks, and utilizing digital technologies to enhance site promotion and accessibility through media platforms. Dr Al-Hajri reiterated that the initiative reflects Kuwait's broader commitment to developing its tourism sector as a key pillar of the 'New Kuwait 2035' vision, which aims to diversify income sources and promote sustainable growth. He also noted Kuwait's readiness to host the 52nd meeting of the UN World Tourism Organization's Regional Commission for the Middle East next year, under the chairmanship of Minister of Information and Culture and Minister of State for Youth Affairs Abdulrahman Al-Mutairi. The UNESCO Global Geoparks designation, launched in 2015, is awarded to geographic areas with internationally significant geological heritage and managed under a holistic model integrating conservation, education, and sustainable development. The designation is valid for four years and subject to periodic reevaluation to ensure continued compliance with UNESCO standards.— KUNA
Arab Times
17-05-2025
- Science
- Arab Times
Kuwait has several sites fit for UNESCO Geoparks status: official
KUWAIT CITY, May 17: Dr. Mubarak Al-Hajri, Chairman of the Kuwait Society for Earth Sciences, affirmed that Kuwait possesses several significant geological sites that could be eligible for inclusion in the UNESCO Global Geoparks Network. In an interview with the Kuwait News Agency (KUNA) on Saturday, Al-Hajri stated that geological parks are increasingly seen as integral to sustainable development strategies. They offer not only economic benefits but also contribute to tourism and the preservation of cultural heritage. He emphasized that integrating Kuwaiti sites into the UNESCO Geoparks Network is a strategic objective of the society, which seeks to preserve the country's geological heritage in collaboration with relevant government entities. Al-Hajri explained that geological parks are areas of unique and diverse geological significance managed under a framework that promotes both conservation and sustainable development. These parks serve as educational platforms, research hubs, and tourist attractions, fostering environmental awareness and supporting local economies through job creation and community engagement. 'These natural areas serve as open-air laboratories for students and researchers studying earth sciences, biodiversity, and climate history,' he said. 'They are also appealing destinations for nature enthusiasts and eco-tourists.' He noted that geological parks have proven successful in other countries, particularly in promoting disaster risk awareness and supporting biodiversity through the conservation of unique ecosystems. They also play a role in educating the public on the dangers of earthquakes and volcanic activity. Describing the society's vision, Al-Hajri said the initiative is a national project that requires close collaboration between the government and private sectors, non-profit organizations, and academic institutions. The parks would also showcase traditional crafts, local cuisine, and cultural activities, all aligned with sustainable development goals and aimed at protecting rare sites from neglect or misuse. He highlighted Al-Subiya as one of the primary candidates for the initial phase of the project. The area is rich in historical and environmental value, having once hosted the Ubaid civilization, and features diverse wildlife and ecosystems that support its potential as a designated geopark. Al-Hajri outlined a phased approach for the project's completion. This includes evaluating geological, environmental, and cultural significance; ensuring site connectivity to form an integrated geopark network; and developing essential infrastructure such as trails, signage, and visitor centers. He stressed the importance of identifying areas accessible to the public and those that must remain protected. The project will also require the establishment of a dedicated management team comprising specialists in geology, environmental science, culture, and tourism, as well as a monitoring system to safeguard against encroachments and damage. Development plans include creating educational programs, organizing tourism activities, and building international partnerships with other geoparks. Digital tools will also be used for promotion and visitor engagement. Al-Hajri said the initiative aligns with Kuwait's broader development goals under the "New Kuwait 2035" vision, which aims to diversify the national economy and promote sustainable growth. He noted that Kuwait's commitment to developing its tourism sector is further reflected in its upcoming hosting of the 52nd meeting of the UN Tourism Organization's Regional Commission for the Middle East, to be chaired by Minister of Information and Culture and Minister of State for Youth Affairs, Abdulrahman Al-Mutairi. UNESCO Global Geoparks are defined as unified geographical areas of international geological significance managed with a holistic approach that integrates conservation, education, and sustainable development. The designation, introduced in 2015, is valid for four years and subject to periodic review.
Arab Times
22-03-2025
- Science
- Arab Times
Join Earth Hour in Kuwait: Turn off lights to combat climate change today
KUWAIT CITY, March 22: The Kuwait Society for Earth Sciences (KSES) has urged all citizens and residents to take part in the global initiative "Earth Hour" today, Saturday, March 22. This initiative, held under the slogan "Together towards the biggest hour for Earth," aims to raise awareness about climate change, environmental conservation, and the protection of the planet. In a press statement released on Friday, Dr. Mubarak Al-Hajri, Chairman of the KSES, called on the people of Kuwait to turn off unnecessary lights and electrical appliances between 8:30 and 9:30 pm today. Participants are encouraged to light candles during this one-hour period, joining millions around the world in this global event. Dr. Al-Hajri emphasized that Earth Hour seeks to highlight the dangers of excessive energy consumption, which contributes to climate change and global warming. The initiative also encourages positive actions to preserve the environment and ensure a sustainable future for the planet. Earth Hour, organized by the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF), has seen participation from 180 countries and regions worldwide, including several Arab countries. Last year, more than 3.5 billion people took part in the event, and the global community is aiming to break this record by 2025. The event is typically scheduled for the last Saturday of March each year, coinciding with the vernal equinox (when day and night are of equal length). This timing ensures that most cities around the world can participate during a similar time at night, as Earth Hour moves across time zones. Al-Hajri also noted the growing impact of climate change, which is increasingly evident through extreme weather events, floods, wildfires, biodiversity loss, and land degradation. He emphasized that Earth Hour serves as a call to action for greater global participation, reflecting a heightened awareness and collective desire to address environmental challenges. Launched in 2007 in Sydney, Australia, Earth Hour has grown to become one of the largest global initiatives dedicated to preserving the planet. The Kuwait Society for Earth Sciences is hopeful that this year's participation will be stronger than ever, contributing to global efforts in combating climate change and protecting the Earth for future generations.
Al Sahwa
18-02-2025
- Politics
- Al Sahwa
YEMENI REFORM LEADER MEETS WITH FOREIGN AMBASSADORS, EMPHASIZES IMPORTANCE OF SUPPORTING STATE RESTORATION
Abdulrazzaq Al-Hajri, a member of the Supreme Council of the Yemeni Congregation for Reform and head of the parliamentary bloc, met with ambassadors from the European Union, Germany, France, and the Netherlands on Monday. The meetings focused on discussing issues of mutual interest and the latest developments on the local and regional fronts. During the meetings, Al-Hajri highlighted the current situation in Yemen and the Reform party's vision for addressing the challenges facing the country. He emphasized the importance of supporting the Presidential Council in fulfilling its duties, as outlined in the transfer of power statement, and backing the government in its efforts to overcome economic challenges. Al-Hajri also warned about the dangers posed by the continued violence and oppression perpetrated by the Houthi militia, which he said is backed by Iran. He stressed that the international community must take a firm stance in support of the legitimate government's efforts to restore the state and end the coup. The ambassadors from the European Union, Germany, France, and the Netherlands reaffirmed their countries' commitment to supporting the Yemeni people and their legitimate leadership in achieving lasting and comprehensive peace. They also expressed their willingness to coordinate with the government to identify areas where support is most needed to alleviate the suffering of the Yemeni people.
