Sharjah 24 – Hagar Khamis:
In a recent address, His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, emphasised the critical role of heritage revival and the hosting of cultural events as pivotal means to repair and strengthen societal cohesion. He highlighted the success of the Kalba Festival of Jash’a and Sahanah, explaining the process of producing Jash’a and its significance within the cultural tapestry of the region. Sheikh Sultan encouraged the youth to adhere to religious teachings, heritage, and strong moral values, saying, “If you love Sultan, do as I do; I race with the imam to enter the mosque.”
During a phone conversation on the programme “Al Khatt Al Mubasher” airing on Sharjah Radio and Television, Sheikh Sultan elaborated on the term “Jash’a”, which refers to “Qash’a”, a name for dried animal skins. He clarified that the term is derived from the tough skin of the fish referred to as Jash’a. Contrary to some beliefs, “Jash’a” is not made from “Al Ouma” fish, which is used to feed livestock, but rather from “Barri” fish obtained from the Arabian Sea and then the Persian Gulf through the Hormuz Strait. The process of creating Sahanah from Jash’a involves careful preparation that transforms the fish’s appearance and contributes to the rich culinary heritage.
Sultan Al Qasimi: We Prioritise the Happiness and Stability of Families
Sheikh Sultan continued to express his commitment to the well-being of the community, stating, “We aim to bring happiness to individuals, as this emotional state enables them to raise their children with values while alleviating stress from issues like debt.” He underscored the significance of calm environments for familial bonding and the sharing of cultural stories, which play an essential role in children’s upbringing. The Ruler of Sharjah has actively supported the promotion of heritage, noting the establishment of Al Wasat Canal with the intention of disseminating Bedouin culture, trusting the local community to showcase their rich traditions effectively.
Sultan Al Qasimi: If You Love Sultan, Follow My Example and Race to the Mosque
In his ongoing conversation, Sheikh Sultan praised the community’s enthusiasm for cultural events. He noted that residents of cities such as Kalba and Khor Fakkan express eagerness to share their experiences, adding, “When they tell me that I passed by Al Dhaid without stopping, I assure them that I will visit.” He leverages these interactions to foster a sense of national pride and encourages participation in community activities. He often shares with them his personal devotion to Islam, stating, “I race with the imam to enter the mosque; Islam is characterised by actions, morals, and positive spirits.”
Sultan Al Qasimi: Addressing Societal Issues Through Detailed Reports
Sheikh Sultan addressed the resolution of community issues through meticulous oversight, revealing, “We recently announced the provision of 6,700 housing units, a figure that reflects only those formally recorded. We have addressed numerous challenges faced by citizens, including waiving substantial penalties for those in difficulty.” His proactive measures extend to alleviating problems with contractors, ensuring that every citizen has access to comfortable living conditions, which he links to the rising marriage rates observed in the community.
Ruler of Sharjah: Our Community Is Thriving and Free from Major Issues
Concluding his remarks, Sheikh Sultan expressed his contentment with the state of the community. He noted that Sharjah has maintained a commendable record free from drug-related issues and has successfully navigated challenges posed by societal constraints. He reinforces the importance of cultural events and the extension of the weekend to three days, which facilitates family unity and allows for shared experiences. “We seek the active participation of men in family duties while encouraging outings to parks for leisure with loved ones,” he stated. Sheikh Sultan affirmed his ongoing commitment to serving the community, wishing everyone happiness and success.