MUSCAT: On Wednesday, Karam Gabr, the Head of the Supreme Council for Media Regulation (SCMR) of the Arab Republic of Egypt, embarked on a visit to various media establishments in Oman, including the Oman News Agency (ONA), the News Centre, Digital Studios Complex, and the Oman Newspaper Building.
During his visit, Gabr engaged in discussions with representatives from the Ministry of Information, who provided him with insights into the media and news content produced by the institutions he visited. He also observed the state-of-the-art technical equipment and programs designed to ensure the media's ability to respond swiftly to emerging needs.
In a press release issued following the visit, Gabr expressed his appreciation for the advanced nature of the bilateral relations between Oman and Egypt. He highlighted the rich cultural, intellectual, and technical heritage of both nations, which serves as a foundation for cooperation and the exchange of knowledge across various sectors. Gabr emphasized the pivotal role of the media in fostering closer ties between countries and their populations, noting its potential to bridge divides, create shared spaces, and enhance communication among nations.
A Focus on Awareness
In the broader context, Gabr underscored the media's responsibility in raising awareness about the ways in which it can contribute to the affirmation of national identities, particularly among the youth, by fostering a sense of belonging, love for one's homeland, and a commitment to its preservation.
He also addressed the media's role in navigating the technological revolution that has been propelled by advancements in communication, emphasizing the need for media content to align with the values, ethics, religious beliefs, and legal frameworks of societies.
Furthermore, Gabr highlighted the importance of leveraging the positive aspects of social media platforms while mitigating the negative impacts, such as violence and extremism, which can arise from the inadvertent dissemination of content that conflicts with societal religious values, customs, and traditions.
He also cautioned against the challenges currently facing traditional print media, including a noticeable decline in readership rates and a reduction in the volume of advertisements and resources available.
He further stated that this challenge, in essence, transcends national boundaries, rather than being confined to particular nations. Nonetheless, he assured that the print media will persist in contributing to the soft power of societies.
