Sharjah Ruler emphasises heritage revival as cornerstone of societal wellbeing
His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi underscores the transformative power of cultural preservation in strengthening community bonds and national identity during a candid radio address
During an engaging phone-in programme on Sharjah Radio and Television, His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, articulated a profound vision of heritage as a vital instrument for societal cohesion and reform. Speaking with Mohammed Hassan Khalaf, Director General of the Sharjah Broadcasting Authority, His Highness reflected on the emirate’s cultural initiatives and their broader significance for citizens’ wellbeing.
The Sharjah Ruler praised the success of the Kalba Jashe and Sahnah Festival, offering detailed insights into these traditional practices. He explained the etymological and culinary dimensions of jashe, a type of fish whose name derives from the dryness of its skin, and described the meticulous preparation of sahnah, a heritage food created through an ancestral process of cleaning and curing. These explanations illustrated His Highness’s commitment to documenting and celebrating the emirate’s cultural wealth.
Emphasising the indivisibility of personal faith and community responsibility, His Highness declared that “Islam is deeds, good character and kind hearts.” He encouraged citizens to embrace religious teachings and traditional values, setting his own devotional practices as an exemplar of commitment to both faith and homeland.
His Highness highlighted Sharjah’s remarkable portfolio of international honours, including designations as Arab Culture Capital, Islamic Culture Capital, Arab Press Capital and UNESCO Creative Cities Network member. These accolades, he stressed, reflect substantive achievement rather than ceremonial recognition, earned through sustained effort and strategic planning.
The Ruler articulated his administration’s comprehensive approach to citizen welfare, noting the announcement of 6,700 newly constructed homes and the settlement of numerous disputes between citizens and contractors. He disclosed that the home care and nursing service alone represents an AED 37 million annual investment in staff salaries, enabling elderly citizens to maintain dignity and family connections within their homes rather than institutional settings.
Underscoring the connection between public happiness and effective parenting, His Highness explained that citizens liberated from financial stress and debt can devote meaningful attention to transmitting values and heritage to younger generations. This philosophy underpins initiatives including the three-day weekend, designed to strengthen family cohesion and distribute domestic responsibilities more equitably between parents.
His Highness attributed the emirate’s rising marriage rates to improved housing availability and economic security, viewing these demographic trends as evidence of societal health. He framed Sharjah’s cultural programming—from heritage festivals to the establishment of Al Wusta channel for Bedouin heritage preservation—as integral to a comprehensive reform agenda that prioritises both material welfare and spiritual flourishing.
Source: WAM