Latest news with #SayyidSaidbinSultanalBusaidy
Observer
25-05-2025
- Business
- Observer
MoCSY unveils key digital transformation initiatives
MUSCAT: MUSCAT: In a move aligned with Oman Vision 2040, the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Youth (MoCSY) announced the launch of several ambitious digital transformation initiatives during a media forum held in Muscat on Sunday. The event was attended by Sayyid Said bin Sultan al Busaidy, Under-Secretary of the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Youth for Culture; Basil bin Ahmed al Rawas, Under-Secretary of the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Youth for Sports and Youth, and a number of senior ministry officials. LAUNCH OF 'SHABIK' PLATFORM A major highlight of the event was the official launch of the 'Shabik' mobile application, the Ministry's new e-ticketing system for cultural, sports and youth events. The platform was inaugurated by Sayyid Said bin Sultan al Busaidy and is designed to streamline ticket booking, enhance user experience, and facilitate community engagement in public events. The platform also offers the Ministry critical tools for data analysis and crowd management, contributing to smarter event planning. The initiative reflects a significant milestone in the Ministry's digital agenda and supports Oman's broader vision for digital government services. The event concluded with a workshop titled "Enhancing Readiness for Change at the Individual and Institutional Level," delivered by change management expert Hanan al Salmi LAUNCH OF OMAN'S LARGEST HACKATHON PROGRAMME Another cornerstone initiative is the launch of the largest Hackathon programme in the Gulf region, an eight-week national challenge bringing together programmers, innovators, and creatives. The goal is to develop practical digital solutions that support and advance the Ministry's work across culture, sports, and youth sectors. Sultan al Subhi, Director of the Digital Transformation Programme, affirmed that the Ministry's recent efforts to digitise and refine sector data towards applying a structured methodology based on understanding, analysis, and implementation to drive real results. During the forum, the MoCSY signed six key Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with local and international partners, including: Aman Company — to improve digital excellence indicators, Sohar International Bank — as a strategic partner for the Hackathon, Al Qala'a — for cybersecurity collaboration, Cisco — to explore advanced technology applications, Tatweer — for software and application security testing, Tanafos — for digital solution development support Capacity-Building Workshop. The event concluded with a workshop titled "Enhancing Readiness for Change at the Individual and Institutional Level," delivered by change management expert Hanan bint Hamed al Salmiyah. The session focused on the human dimension of digital transformation and stressed the importance of preparing employees for rapid shifts in technology and digital services.
Observer
25-03-2025
- Business
- Observer
Oman debuts at London Design Biennale
MUSCAT: The Sultanate of Oman is set to make its first-ever appearance at the prestigious London Design Biennale 2025, a global platform celebrating creativity and innovation in design. Representing Oman at this renowned event is 'Memory Network', an artwork by Omani architect and designer Haitham al Busafi, which will be showcased on June 5. This participation is a significant step in the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Youth's broader efforts to highlight Oman's cultural heritage and artistic contributions on the international stage. It aligns with the Sultanate of Oman's Cultural Strategy 2021-2040, aimed at transforming Oman's cultural landscape into a hub of creativity and innovation. Sayyid Said bin Sultan al Busaidy, Under-Secretary of the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Youth for Culture, emphasised the importance of Oman's participation, stating that it provides a valuable opportunity to present the nation's rich cultural identity through contemporary design. He noted that the London Design Biennale serves as a platform for cultural dialogue, fostering collaborations between Omani and international designers while allowing Oman to engage with a global audience. To ensure a compelling and well-curated presence at the event, the Ministry has commissioned the Zawraq Collective to oversee Oman's pavilion. The collective selected Haitham al Busafi as the lead designer, entrusting him with the creative direction of the pavilion. At the heart of Oman's showcase is 'Memory Network', a piece inspired by the country's deep-rooted pottery heritage. The artwork explores the intellectual transition from tangible heritage to digital preservation, raising thought-provoking questions about the evolving notions of value and the legacy we leave behind for future generations. By incorporating traditional influences into a contemporary design narrative, 'Memory Network' captures the essence of Oman's past while reflecting on its future. Founded in 2016 by Sir John Sorrell and Ben Evans, the London Design Biennale is a globally recognised platform that brings together designers, cultural institutions and creative thinkers from around the world. The event fosters cross-cultural collaborations and highlights the role of design in shaping a sustainable and interconnected world. Since its inception, the Biennale has attracted top-tier international talent, with countries and institutions presenting groundbreaking design concepts that spark meaningful conversations about innovation and progress. Oman's participation in this event reaffirms its growing influence in the arts and design sector, demonstrating its commitment to using culture as a tool for international engagement and sustainable development. By joining the global dialogue on design, Oman continues to position itself as a key player in cultural diplomacy and artistic expression. - ONA
Observer
25-03-2025
- Observer
MoHT implements restoration, maintenance projects in Suwaiq
Al SUWAIQ: The Ministry of Heritage and Tourism (MoHT) is actively carrying out multiple restoration and maintenance projects aimed at preserving and rehabilitating historical and archaeological landmarks in the Wilayat of Al Suwaiq, Al Batinah North Governorate. This initiative aligns with the ministry's ongoing commitment to safeguarding Oman's rich cultural heritage across various wilayats and governorates. Hassan bin Sulaiman al Jabri, Director of the Heritage and Tourism Department in Al Batinah North, highlighted that the directorate is undertaking a series of restoration efforts, focusing on key historical sites that reflect Oman's architectural and cultural legacy. Among the key projects is the recently completed Al Maghabsha Wall, which underwent extensive restoration, including repairs to its walls, towers and internal components. Additionally, significant work is being carried out to restore the Al Hilal Wall, with completion anticipated within the current year. The project encompasses the renovation of walls and the maintenance of towers, ensuring structural stability and long-term preservation. The Al Maghabsha Wall, which dates back to the reign of Sayyid Said bin Sultan al Busaidy (1807–1856 AD), is characterised by its rectangular fortress-like design. Measuring 45 metres in length and 44 metres in width, it features four cylindrical towers, each spanning three floors, emphasising its strategic and defensive significance. Meanwhile, the Al Hilal Wall, constructed in the 13th century AH (19th century AD), showcases a square-shaped structure with an elevated entrance comprising two floors, which historically served as a vantage point for guarding and surveillance. The structure also houses two large cannons, underscoring its defensive role in the region's history. Al Jabri underscored the importance of these restoration efforts, noting that preserving such heritage sites is crucial for documenting Oman's history and enabling future generations to appreciate their historical significance. Additionally, restored forts and castles serve as major attractions for domestic and international tourists, contributing to the growth of cultural tourism in Oman. By preventing these landmarks from deterioration and extinction, the ministry aims to fortify national identity and promote Oman's historical narrative on a global platform. - ONA
