Latest news with #InformationandCulture


Arab Times
a day ago
- Sport
- Arab Times
Al-Dhiyab elected unopposed as Asian Handball Federation president
KUWAIT CITY, July 29, (KUNA): The Asian Handball Federation officially announced the unopposed appointment of Kuwaiti official Bader Al-Dhiyab as President for the upcoming 2025–2029 electoral term. Elections for the remaining positions are scheduled to take place in Egypt this December. Speaking to KUNA, Al-Dhiyab described his appointment as a 'great responsibility' that demands persistent effort and strategic planning to achieve lasting success. He revealed that work has already begun on a comprehensive strategy aimed at advancing Asian handball and positioning it prominently on the global stage. His vision includes sustained support for the sport, development initiatives, and direct assistance to national federations to foster growth. Al-Dhiyab emphasized his commitment to collaborating with stakeholders across the continent to develop all aspects of the game. This includes enhancing the technical capabilities of national teams, strengthening referee committees, and implementing elite-level training programs. 'Success is never the result of individual effort—it is achieved through collective teamwork and shared dedication,' he said. He extended his gratitude to Abdulrahman Al-Mutairi, Minister of Information and Culture and Minister of State for Youth Affairs, for his invaluable support in securing the position. Al-Dhiyab also thanked the member federations for their trust and confidence, underscoring that he always carries Kuwait's name with pride—and views his success as a reflection of the nation's excellence. Al-Dhiyab brings extensive experience to the role, having previously served in senior positions within both the Asian and International Handball Federations, including Vice President of the International Handball Federation and Treasurer of the Asian Handball Federation.


Arab Times
20-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Arab Times
Kuwait restructures licensing process for theatrical and artistic performances
KUWAIT CITY, July 20: Minister of Information and Culture, and Minister of State for Youth Affairs, Abdulrahman Al-Mutairi, who also serves as Chairman of the National Council for Culture, Arts and Letters (NCCAL), has issued a ministerial decision to restructure the licensing mechanism for theatrical and artistic performances in Kuwait. The decision aims to streamline the process while ensuring alignment with national laws and cultural values. According to Aisha Al-Mahmoud, Assistant Secretary-General for the Culture Sector and Acting Assistant Secretary-General for the Arts Sector at NCCAL, entities wishing to advertise a theatrical or artistic performance must now submit an official request to the designated authority within the council, accompanied by all required documents. Al-Mahmoud explained that the council will respond to applications within three days of meeting all specified conditions. Applicants are also required to sign a declaration confirming that the performance does not violate any prohibitions under Law No. 3 of 2006 and its amendments. The declaration must also take into account the provisions of Law No. 21 of 2015 concerning children's rights and other relevant legislation in force. Once the application is approved, organizers may publicly announce the event and open bookings in accordance with regulations set by competent authorities. A final approval process is required, in which a designated committee from NCCAL will attend the final rehearsal at least three days prior to the public showing and no more than fifteen days after rehearsal scheduling. The committee will then decide whether to approve, request modifications, or reject the performance. The decision applies to all theatrical and artistic performances, including those organized by civil theater groups, private institutions, diplomatic missions, and non-governmental entities. All approvals will be granted based on Kuwait's current legal and legislative framework. Al-Mahmoud emphasized that the restructuring reinforces the cultural and social significance of theater as a creative art form that fosters public awareness. She noted that this move grants artists full responsibility before their audiences to deliver meaningful content that respects societal values. She also underscored the critical role of children's theater as a platform for promoting both cognitive and social development among young audiences.


Business Recorder
08-07-2025
- Politics
- Business Recorder
Youm-e-Ashura marked with solemnity, reverence
LAHORE: Youm-e-Ashur, the 10th of Muharram-ul-Haram, was observed across the country on Sunday with solemnity and reverence in commemoration of the supreme sacrifice rendered by Hazrat Imam Hussain (RA) and his devoted companions in Karbala. The unmatched sacrifice of Hazrat Imam Hussain (RA) and his companions conveyed a powerful message of protecting the true spirit of Islam. Mourning processions were taken out in all cities and towns of the country to remember this eternal martyrdom of the grandson of Holy Prophet Hazrat Muhammad (SAW). Ulema and Zakireen highlighted the bright and candid teachings of Hazrat Imam Hussain (RA) and various aspects of Karbala tragedy. Elaborate security arrangements had been made across the country to maintain law and order, and avoid any untoward incident during the mourning processions. In Lahore, the main Zuljinnah procession was taken out from Nisar Haveli inside Mochi Gate of old Lahore Walled City and after passing through traditional route culminated at Karbala Gamay Shah near Data Darbar Complex Sunday evening where Shaam-e-Ghareeban was held. Meanwhile, Inspector General of the Punjab Police, Dr Usman Anwar, told media that over one hundred thousand officers and jawans of Punjab Police are providing security cover to over five thousand four hundred mourning processions and 2,772 Majalis throughout the province. Punjab Secretary Home Dr Ahmad Javed Qazi visited the Central Control Room of the Home Department in Lahore. Provincial Minister for Information and Culture, Azma Zahid Bukhari, visited Faisalabad to inspect the arrangements made for the observance of Ashura. During her visit to various procession routes and Imambargahs, she lauded the efforts of the local administration and security forces in ensuring peaceful and organized Muharram-ul-Haram observances. Speaking to the media, she emphasized that Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz had issued clear directives to make exemplary arrangements for Youm-e-Ashur. Copyright Business Recorder, 2025

Kuwait Times
05-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Kuwait Times
Minister highlights vision for revitalizing theater
KUWAIT: Minister of Information and Culture and Minister of State for Youth Affairs Abdulrahman Al-Mutairi underscored the importance of advancing theatrical work in Kuwait during a coordination meeting with representatives of theatrical production companies, civil theater associations, and cultural institutions. The meeting, held at the Government Communication Center, focused on strengthening partnerships to enhance the role of theater in Kuwait's cultural landscape. At the outset, Minister Al-Mutairi affirmed the unwavering support that the culture sector receives from the political leadership, noting the rich history of Kuwaiti theater, which this year marks more than a century since its inception. He paid tribute to the pioneers of Kuwaiti theater whose efforts elevated it into a distinguished Arab and international platform, stressing the role of the younger generation in continuing this legacy. 'Theater today is not only a cultural expression but a key driver of development, contributing to the economy, boosting tourism, and evolving into a professional industry,' the minister said. KUWAIT: Minister of Information and Culture and Minister of State for Youth Affairs Abdulrahman Al-Mutairi and Acting Assistant Secretary-General for the Arts Sector are pictured during the event. – KUNA photos Al-Mutairi called for closer cooperation among the public and private sectors, as well as civil society organizations, to enhance the effectiveness and influence of theatrical productions. He emphasized that the National Council for Culture, Arts and Letters (NCCAL) plays a central role in supporting, sponsoring, and organizing the cultural scene, noting, 'We operate from a national participatory strategy that values theater, and we welcome all visions and proposals for a brighter future.' He also stressed the significance of public engagement and constructive criticism in evaluating the success of performances, highlighting the importance of content that aligns with religious and social values, while also addressing development-related themes that speak to the nation's future. As part of efforts to modernize and expand theater infrastructure, Minister Al-Mutairi revealed that the Council has launched a study to offer several theaters — including Kaifan, Al-Shamiya, Salmiya, and Mishref — for public auction, following the recent auctioning of Dasma Theater for sustainable operation. He further announced coordination with the Ministry of Education to allocate one theater in each governorate from select school venues, with the aim of fostering theatrical activity across all regions of the country. 'Kuwaiti theater stands at a historic crossroads,' Al-Mutairi said, 'with a genuine opportunity to usher in a new era of excellence, backed by the leadership's continuous support and the collaborative efforts of all cultural stakeholders.' The meeting also featured remarks and feedback from attendees, in the presence of NCCAL Secretary-General Dr Mohammed Al-Jassar and Acting Assistant Secretary-General for the Arts Sector Aisha Al-Mahmoud. — KUNA

Kuwait Times
29-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Kuwait Times
Kuwait wins 4 awards at Arab Radio and Television Festival
TUNIS/KUWAIT: Kuwait's ministry of information celebrated a major achievement at the 25th Arab Radio and Television Festival, held in Tunis from June 23 to 26, taking home four prestigious awards. Minister of Information and Culture and Minister of State for Youth Affairs Abdulrahman Al-Mutairi expressed pride in Kuwait Television's performance, which he described as a reflection of the country's cultural and media identity and a testament to the creativity and dedication of Kuwaiti media professionals. He congratulated the teams behind the winning programs — including editors, presenters, technicians, and administrators — praising their commitment to quality and professionalism. 'These achievements reflect the ministry's policy to support and develop national media production,' Al-Mutairi said, adding that Kuwait remains committed to fostering responsible, balanced, and ethical media that aligns with the country's future vision. TUNIS: Award winners at the 25th Arab Radio and Television Festival. - KUNA photos Kuwait TV earned two gold awards (first place) for the program Kuwaiti Nights in the entertainment and artistic evenings category, and for Afanin Linguistic in the television cultural programs category. In addition, the channel received two second-place awards in the Television Program Exchange and Comprehensive Program Exchange competitions. The festival, organized by the Arab States Broadcasting Union since 1969, was held under the slogan 'Space for Convergence and Creativity' and included a range of events across Tunis and Hammamet. These featured an international media exhibition, a program market with participation from around 80 media institutions, and professional seminars focused on Arab drama, artificial intelligence in media, and children's programming. The Palestinian issue figured prominently throughout the festival's panels and discussions, reaffirming Arab media's commitment to the cause. The event also saw the presentation of around 100 Chinese audiovisual works as part of the 'Media City Program,' signaling deeper cooperation between Arab and Chinese media sectors. The opening ceremony took place at the historic Carthage Theater, attended by Tunisian Minister of Culture Amina Sarrarfi and ASBU President Mohammed Al-Harthi. The festival concluded with a grand performance titled The Horse and the Night at the Opera Theater in Tunis. This year's session, chaired by Saudi Arabia's Radio and Television Authority, added depth and diversity to the festival's programming and boosted its regional and international presence. — KUNA