Parliament's Services Committee Recommends Approving Proposal to Protect Gulf Identity

TDT | Manama

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The House of Representatives is poised to vote on a proposal aimed at strengthening and preserving the shared Gulf identity. The proposal, submitted by five MPs – Ahmed Al Salloom, Basma Mubarak, Hanan Fardan, and Mohamed Al Maarifi – has received a positive recommendation from the Parliament's Services Committee. A key element in the proposal is to encourage Bahraini citizens to dress traditionally in their workplace and public areas.

The committee's endorsement cites several key considerations supporting the proposal, including fostering national loyalty and belonging, instilling shared Gulf values through education and media, and safeguarding the Gulf identity for future generations. 

The committee also highlighted the importance of promoting films and television programmes that reflect Gulf heritage and organising celebrations that showcase the region's rich cultural traditions. 

In its response to the committee, the Ministry of Information detailed a range of existing initiatives designed to promote the shared Gulf identity. These include memoranda of understanding with several Gulf states to develop projects and initiatives that reflect Gulf heritage and values. 

The ministry also stressed Bahrain's membership in the Gulf Cooperation Council's Joint Programme Production Establishment, which aims to strengthen cultural and historical ties among member states. Furthermore, the ministry pointed to the launch of Gulf Radio in 2011 as another key initiative aimed at fostering a shared Gulf identity.

The ministry also highlighted the annual "Al Sariya" heritage programme and the Heritage Village Festival as significant contributions to promoting national and Gulf identity. The ministry noted its commitment to monitoring content that could potentially undermine the shared Gulf identity.

The proposal will be debated and voted upon during the House of Representatives' session next Tuesday.