Latest news with #AlJahwari
Observer
16-04-2025
- General
- Observer
Shabab Oman II sets sail for 15-nation voyage
MUSCAT: The Royal Navy of Oman organised a special visit on Wednesday for a group of media professionals from various print, audio, visual and digital outlets to its ship Shabab Oman II, docked at Sultan Qaboos Port in Muttrah. This visit was held in celebration of the inclusion of the Shabab Oman programme for peace and sustainable cultural dialogue within the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (Unesco) programmes, in recognition of its pioneering role in promoting cultural communication and mutual understanding among nations. During the visit, Lt Col Issa bin Salim al Jahwari, Commander of Shabab Oman II, gave a comprehensive briefing on the ship's humanitarian and cultural mission, emphasising that it is more than just a training vessel. He described it as a complete platform for spreading values of love and peace; and enhancing Oman's presence in international forums. Al Jahwari explained that Shabab Oman II is equipped with the latest navigation and communication systems, enabling it to perform its missions efficiently under various maritime conditions. He stated that work on board is structured around six main objectives, foremost among them supporting Oman Vision 2040, particularly the theme of 'People and Society.' The ship provides a practical training environment that differs significantly from traditional education, where trainees engage in daily tasks from early morning until late at night — enhancing their physical and mental abilities; and reducing digital isolation. Al Jahwari noted that the ship has hosted training and academic programmes involving 26 students from 20 nationalities and five international universities, including Sultan Qaboos University and institutions from Canada, Croatia and Germany. The participants presented research on sustainability and marine sciences even though most of them were not from maritime disciplines — demonstrating the ship's role in broadening youth horizons and contributing to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals 2030. Shabab Oman II sets sail for 15-nation voyage He further emphasised the ship's vital role in promoting Oman's tourism and culture through participation in European maritime festivals and events that attract hundreds of thousands of visitors. The crew switches from military uniform to traditional Omani dress during such events to enhance the country's cultural visibility. He cited a 2011 survey of German tourists, which showed that 40 per cent became familiar with Oman after the ship's participation in a maritime festival in Germany in 2010. Al Jahwari highlighted the ship's mission to revive Oman's maritime heritage through training in traditional sailing methods using sails and celestial navigation — a practice nearly extinct in the Arab region. Shabab Oman II is among the few vessels that still employ this method of navigation. The ship is preparing for its seventh international voyage, titled Glory of the Seas, which will span approximately six months, visiting 30 ports in 15 countries and covering nearly 18,000 nautical miles. The journey will include 84 Omani trainees in addition to the ship's crew and will feature participation in five international maritime races and festivals expected to attract around 3.5 million visitors. Regarding achievements, Al Jahwari stated that Shabab Oman II has won the 'Friendship Trophy' four times out of 28 editions, outperforming even its predecessor Shabab Oman I, which won the trophy 11 times. In 2022, the ship claimed first place in one race and fourth in another both races conducted using sails only, with no motor assistance. He concluded by noting that one of Shabab Oman II's most distinctive features is its 100% Omani crew, which operates the ship efficiently despite challenging European weather conditions, often facing strong maritime storms. The ship includes engineering and medical teams that work around the clock, making it a 'floating city' fully equipped with essential services. Over the course of its previous voyages, the ship has welcomed more than 814,000 visitors from around the world, many of whom received souvenirs carrying Oman's noble message. These visits have also contributed to tourism by facilitating visa processes in several countries. The visit aimed to introduce the ship's upcoming seventh international voyage, which includes a series of port visits and participations in various maritime events.
Observer
16-02-2025
- Business
- Observer
CEO TALK: Innovation, sustainability: The future of engineering services in Oman
MUSCAT: Innovation and sustainability will define the future of engineering services in Oman, according to Badar al Jahwari, CEO of Mowred Engineering Services. In an interview with Observer, Al Jahwari emphasised that staying ahead in the market requires a strong focus on advanced technology, employee development, and a commitment to sustainable solutions. 'We aim to expand our advanced engineering services and strengthen sustainable energy solutions, in alignment with Oman Vision 2040,' Al Jahwari said. 'Additionally, we plan to develop projects that incorporate modern technologies such as digitalisation and artificial intelligence to enhance efficiency in engineering operations.' A JOURNEY DRIVEN BY PASSION AND INNOVATION Since founding Mowred Engineering Services, Al Jahwari has led the company to become a trusted name in Oman's engineering sector. His journey from an aspiring engineer to a CEO was fueled by a passion for innovation and a desire to contribute to national infrastructure development. 'From my early days as an engineer, I was always looking for opportunities to innovate and make a positive impact on the industry,' he said. 'This passion, along with the desire to build a strong team and provide exceptional services, drove me to establish Mowred Engineering Services and lead it toward success.' MILESTONES THAT DEFINE SUCCESS Under his leadership, Mowred has achieved several significant milestones, including winning the 2019 Entrepreneurship Award as the Best Medium-Sized Enterprise in the Service Sector across Oman and earning the North Al Batinah Entrepreneurship Award. The company has also gained internationally recognised certifications for its commitment to quality and safety standards. 'Each milestone we achieve is a step closer to realising our vision of becoming a leading engineering services provider in the region while continuing to deliver innovative and sustainable solutions,' Al Jahwari noted. OVERCOMING CHALLENGES THROUGH ADAPTATION However, success has not come without challenges. The rapid advancements in engineering and technology have required constant adaptation. 'One of the biggest challenges we have faced was adapting to the rapid advancements in the engineering and technology sectors,' he said. 'To overcome this, we adopted an innovation-driven approach, continuously developing smart solutions to meet client needs. Additionally, focusing on employee training and investing in modern technology has helped us stay ahead in the market.' BUILDING A STRONG COMPANY CULTURE Al Jahwari believes that a company's success is rooted in its people. As a leader, he prioritises fostering a strong company culture built on collaboration, transparency, and innovation. 'A leader's role is to inspire their team and create a positive work environment that fosters creativity and commitment,' he explained. 'That's why I strive to build a company culture where every employee feels like a vital part of the company's success.' ADVICE FOR FUTURE BUSINESS LEADERS For aspiring CEOs, Al Jahwari offers clear advice: persistence, innovation, and integrity are key to long-term success. 'Success doesn't happen overnight—it requires a clear vision, strong commitment, and a willingness to overcome challenges,' he said. 'I encourage aspiring entrepreneurs to invest in building strong teams, leverage technology, and uphold the values of integrity and innovation in every step they take.' FUTURE PLANS ALIGNED WITH OMAN VISION 2040 Looking ahead, Al Jahwari envisions Mowred Engineering Services playing a larger role in Oman's sustainable development. With a strong foundation in engineering excellence, the company is poised to lead in advanced infrastructure projects, integrating cutting-edge technologies that align with the country's long-term goals.
