Latest news with #MinistryofInformation
The Star
11 hours ago
- Business
- The Star
Laos strives to develop strong tourism growth
This photo taken on January 28, 2024 shows Chinese tourists at a train station in Luang Prabang. From January to March 2025, Laos welcomed 1,262,035 foreign tourists, marking an 11 percent increase compared to the same period in 2024. - AFP VIENTIANE: Laos' Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourism will roll out a range of initiatives aimed at strengthening the tourism sector, attracting more visitors and boosting national revenue. According to Lao National TV on Friday (June 20), the ministry will focus on improving access to tourist sites, upgrading transport and facilities to meet both national and international standards, and ensuring a safe, clean,and enjoyable experience for visitors. Key priorities include enhancing infrastructure and transportation within and around major tourist destinations, as well as diversifying tourism offerings through greater involvement of local communities and the private sector. The government also aims to strengthen the management of popular tourist towns and improve service quality by aligning with Asean and national tourism standards. To boost visibility, promotional efforts will be expanded across various media platforms, ensuring accurate and timely information reaches a broad audience. In support of economic growth, the government will promote the adoption of digital payment systems to encourage domestic currency circulation, while also modernising border checkpoints to streamline entry procedures for travelers. The ministry will also encourage closer cooperation with tourism associations and neighbouring countries, and review visa policies to enhance accessibility for international visitors. These comprehensive efforts are part of a broader strategy to position Laos as a more attractive, competitive, and sustainable tourism destination within the region. From January to March 2025, Laos welcomed 1,262,035 foreign tourists, marking an 11 percent increase compared to the same period in 2024. Meanwhile, domestic tourism experienced a remarkable surge, with 1,467,886 local travelers recorded, a 98.6 per cent rise compared to the same period last year. - Xinhua
Saba Yemen
2 days ago
- Politics
- Saba Yemen
Meeting in Sana'a discusses media preparation for Conference of Greatest Messenger
Sana'a – Saba A meeting was held today in Sana'a, chaired by Minister of Information Hashem Sharaf Al-Din, with the participation of the Deputy Chairman of the Supervisory Committee of the Third International Conference on the Greatest Messenger (PBUH), Abdulrahman Al-Afif, member of the Supervisory Committee Dr. Abdulaziz Al-Shoaibi, and Conference President Dr. Al-Qassem Abbas. The meeting, attended by the heads of the conference's Media Committee, Dhaifallah Al-Shami, and the Relations Committee, Dr. Ali Muthaffar, as well as Deputy Head of the Preparatory Committee Abdullah Rubaid, discussed aspects related to media preparation and coverage for the conference scheduled to be held from 21 to 23 Rabi' al-Awwal 1447 AH. The meeting reviewed the conference's key themes, including cultural and social, political and administrative, economic, educational and scientific, professional, technical and industrial, media, and security and military aspects. It also addressed the role of media in covering the conference's activities and various topics. During the meeting, the Minister of Information affirmed the commitment of media institutions and outlets to actively cover and accompany the conference's proceedings and topics, reflecting the Yemeni people's deep reverence for the Greatest Messenger (PBUH) and his noble legacy. He emphasized that the research papers submitted for the conference are rooted in real-world needs rather than theoretical frameworks, and were carefully selected for their relevance to the state and society. He highlighted the importance of these studies in delivering a meaningful media message that strengthens Yemenis' love and deep connection to the Prophet (PBUH). Minister Sharaf Al-Din also stressed the media's eagerness to cover the conference comprehensively, particularly the media axis, which requires scientific contributions to effectively convey the message of this significant religious occasion both domestically and internationally. He affirmed that the Ministry of Information, its leadership, and media institutions would stand as strong supporters of the conference committees and organizers, especially given that it is the first global conference of this magnitude aimed at showcasing the status of the Prophet (PBUH) in the hearts of all Muslims, and Yemenis in particular. Meanwhile, Conference President Dr. Al-Qassem Abbas and Media Committee Head Al-Shami expressed their appreciation to the Ministry of Information for its support and sponsorship of the conference and its activities. They confirmed the Ministry's role in overseeing media efforts for the conference, noting that the media work has been structured into three phases: preparation and setup, live coverage and accompaniment, and post-conference follow-up to implement recommendations and outcomes—ensuring the event reflects the greatness and noble status of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). Whatsapp Telegram Email Print
Observer
2 days ago
- Business
- Observer
Oman participates in Beijing book fair
MUSCAT: The Sultanate of Oman, represented by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Youth and the Ministry of Information, is participating in the Beijing International Book Fair 2025, which runs until 22 June in the Chinese capital, Beijing. Oman's participation aims to activate its pavilion as a literary and intellectual hub, offering visitors insights into the nation's past, present and future. The pavilion features a diverse and extensive collection of publications across literary, artistic, intellectual and scientific fields, with a particular focus on titles in English and Chinese. Additionally, visual presentations highlight Oman's cultural, historical and civilisational landmarks, alongside digital and visual publications through the "Ayn' platform. The participation also seeks to strengthen cultural and media cooperation between Oman and China, fostering intellectual and literary exchange. It aims to promote cultural collaboration in authorship, publishing and book production, while introducing Omani writers to audiences in Arab, Islamic and international markets. The pavilion also promotes Muscat International Book Fair and attracts new publishing houses to participate, reflecting Oman's commitment to active engagement and positive influence in the global cultural landscape. Oman's presence at the fair underscores the significance of cultural and intellectual exchange as a cornerstone of the country's cultural strategy and a key pillar of Oman Vision 2040. — ONA
Daily Tribune
4 days ago
- Entertainment
- Daily Tribune
Al Dana Drama Award 2025 Celebrates Artistic Talent at Bahrain National Theatre
SK Under the patronage of His Highness Shaikh Khalid bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Al Dana Drama Award 2025 was held at the Bahrain National Theatre, celebrating the region's top drama talents and creative works. Shaikh Khalid, who is the First Deputy Chairman of the Supreme Council for Youth and Sports, Chairman of the General Sports Authority, and President of the Bahrain Olympic Committee, praised the success and development of the awards. He highlighted how the event continues to inspire creativity among artists while promoting Bahraini, Gulf, and Arab identity. He also credited the strong support of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa for arts and culture as a major reason behind Bahrain's growing cultural scene. His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, was also recognized for empowering the creative community and reinforcing Bahrain's role as a regional hub for artistic expression. Shaikh Khalid noted that this year's edition saw a remarkable increase in participation and quality, making it a standout platform for recognizing the efforts of writers, directors, and actors, and encouraging innovation in the field. He also thanked the Ministry of Information for its key role in organizing the event and praised the judging panel for their fair and professional evaluations, which helped spotlight promising talents and exceptional productions. Minister of Information, Dr. Ramzan bin Abdulla Al Noaimi, expressed his gratitude to the leadership for their continued encouragement of the arts. He highlighted that the awards are part of a broader national vision to support creativity and elevate the artistic movement in Bahrain and across the Gulf. A highlight of the night was a vibrant operetta performance that combined drama, music, and visual storytelling. It featured scenes celebrating the importance of art in society, with performances by children from different Gulf countries, showcasing cultural unity and heritage. The show also used modern technology and effects to bring key moments in Gulf drama history to life. Winners of Al Dana Drama Award 2025: Best Social Drama Series: Shari' Al A'sha (Al A'sha Street) Best Comedy Series: Yawmiyat Rajul 'Anis (Diaries of a Bachelor) Best Actor: Khaled Saqer (Shari' Al A'sha) Best Actress: Elham Ali (Shari' Al A'sha) Best Rising Star – Male: Ahmed Saeed (Wuhush / Beasts) Best Rising Star – Female: Alaa Salem (Shari' Al A'sha) Best Screenplay: Badriya Al Bishr & Ozlem Yucel (Shari' Al A'sha) Best Director: Gul Sarialtin (Shari' Al A'sha) Best Original Score: Nawaf Al Jamaan (Layali Al Shamisi) Best Child Actor: Mahmood Al Moosawi ('Abir Sabeel / Passerby) Best Visual Effects: Khaled bin Younes (Ka'inat / Creatures) Audience Choice – Best Series: Shari' Al A'sha Audience Choice – Best Actor: Abdulrahman bin Nafea Audience Choice – Best Actress: Lama Abdulwahab In recognition of their lifelong contributions to drama, Abdullah Malik, Maryam Al Saleh, and Hayat Al Fahad were honored with the Al Dana Lifetime Achievement Award. Award winners expressed their deep appreciation for the opportunity to share their work and grow as artists, noting that the platform reflects Bahrain's continued commitment to supporting the arts and creating a nurturing environment for creative talent.
Observer
4 days ago
- Entertainment
- Observer
Arab presenters to join Khareef Dhofar media coverage for first time
SALALAH: For the first time, presenters from Arab countries outside the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) will participate in the live media coverage of Khareef Dhofar Season. The initiative is part of a wider effort by the Ministry of Information to broaden regional engagement and strengthen the cultural identity of the monsoon season. Dr Mohammed al Sheshai, Director-General, Information Department in Dhofar Governorate, confirmed in an exclusive interview with the Observer that the ministry is fully prepared to deliver a multi-platform media campaign for Khareef Dhofar 2025. The plan includes daily live coverage across television, radio, print and digital platforms. One of the season's flagship programmes is Al Nas Wal Khareef (The People and the Monsoon), which will be broadcast live every afternoon from 2:30 pm to 4 pm. The show will be produced from a mobile studio that travels across Dhofar's natural sites. It will feature presenters from the GCC and, for the first time, presenters from other Arab countries. This expansion reflects the ministry's aim to give the season a wider Arab media profile. Another key programme is Layali Al Khareef (Monsoon Nights), which will air every evening from 9 pm to 10 pm from the cultural venue Awdat Al Madi (Return to the Past). This show will highlight the evening events taking place across the governorate, especially those connected to Dhofar's heritage and tourism appeal. Radio coverage has also been expanded. The programme Atheer Al Khareef will air daily from 5 pm to 7 pm between August 15 and 31. It will be broadcast from the dedicated radio studio at Awdat Al Madi and will focus on cultural and recreational content. In addition, the general radio service will provide continuous festival coverage, while Al Khareef Wal Shabab (The Monsoon and Youth) will be dedicated to youth voices and highlight initiatives by young Omanis and small and medium enterprises (SMEs). Dr Al Sheshai also confirmed that the media plan was developed in coordination with other stakeholders. A high-level meeting was recently held between Dr Abdullah bin Nasser al Harrasi, Minister of Information, and Dr Ahmed bin Mohsin al Ghassani, Chairman of Dhofar Municipality, to finalise the media strategy and ensure alignment across all platforms. He noted that all event zones have been renamed in Arabic as part of a broader effort to reinforce national identity. This year's coverage will also include real-time updates across newspapers, radio, TV, Oman News Agency and social media platforms. The strategy is designed to deliver a unified media message that reflects the essence of Khareef Dhofar. Khareef Dhofar 2025 is expected to mark a new chapter in how Oman presents its most important tourism season. With wider Arab participation, refreshed media content and a fully integrated communication strategy, the Ministry of Information aims to elevate Dhofar's visibility across the region and reinforce its status as a leading cultural and natural destination.
