JEDDAH: The Shoura Council approved a number of resolutions pertaining to the annual report of the Ministry of Defense for the fiscal year 1437/1438 AH, which supports the efforts of the Ministry and its plans to develop its employees and various sectors.
This came on Tuesday during the work of the Council’s 44th ordinary session of the second year of the seventh session held under the chairmanship of the president of the council, Sheikh Abdullah Al-Mahtani.
The council has also approved another resolution concerning the draft regulations against fraud and breach of trust. The draft law deals with criminal offenses relating to companies listed on the Saudi stock market overseen by the Capital Market Authority for crimes of forgery or falsification of documents or provision of false or misleading financial statements. The draft law also includes developing mechanisms to address this issue, as well as defining the role of each entity in this regard.
The draft law consists of 14 articles and aims to combat all types of fraud, in addition to destroying money and squandering it on purpose.
On the other hand, the Council has also approved the draft regulations for imams and muezzins in the Grand Mosque.
The Regulations consist of 30 articles and aim to organize the affairs of imams and muezzins in the Grand Mosque, and determining their rights, duties and responsibilities.
The council has also requested Saudi Customs to activate the Authorized Economic Operator program adopted by the World Customs Organization, and to include in their reports the volume of adulterated goods imported in the Saudi market through coordination with other government agencies.
The council then discussed the report of the Committee on Economics and Energy on the annual report of the King Abdullah City for Atomic and Renewable Energy for the year 1437/1438 AH.
In its recommendations to the council, the committee called on the King Abdullah City for Atomic and Renewable Energy to set fourth mechanisms and funding organizations encouraging the private sector to invest in the field of nuclear energy and maximizing local content in their projects, in collaboration with the banking sector and government lending funds.
The committee has also urged King Abdullah City for Atomic and Renewable Energy to work with stakeholders to identify local reserves of uranium ore and their exploitation to meet domestic demand in the future.
The committee also called for the city to address challenges of infrastructure necessary for the implementation of the solar energy project to be constructed with SoftBank Vision Fund, and passing the appropriate legislation to make it more competitive. The committee also urged the city to include in its future reports a timeframe for its plans, performance indicators for its strategy, and completion rates of the atomic and renewable energy programs.
Saudi Arabia's Shoura Council concentrates on Ministry of Defense and anti-fraud regulations
Saudi Arabia's Shoura Council concentrates on Ministry of Defense and anti-fraud regulations
- The Shoura Council approves a number of resolutions pertaining to the annual report of the Ministry of Defense, which supports the efforts of the Ministry and its plans to develop its employees and various sectors
- The council approved another resolution concerning the draft regulations against fraud and breach of trust
Egyptian artist’s debut exhibition in Riyadh blends anime with 3D printing
RIYADH: Egyptian artist Ali Kamel’s solo exhibition in Riyadh, “The Arrival,” was a significant milestone in his career.
Held in the JAX district from Jan. 14–18, the innovative event merged two worlds: the nostalgic charm of anime and the cutting-edge technology of 3D printing.
The exhibition highlighted Kamel’s ability to weave people’s stories, cultural inspirations, and creations into what he describes as “Alien Technology.”
Using 3D printing — a medium of boundless creative potential — Kamel presented a collection of artworks reflecting his life experiences and the diverse cultural influences encountered on his journey.
He told Arab News: “Each piece embodies the fusion of art and technology, pushing the boundaries of artistic expression while celebrating cultural diversity.”
Kamel’s creative process is deeply rooted in the philosophy of complexity and richness, echoing architect Robert Venturi’s famous saying, “Less is a bore.”
He explained: “I embrace complexity in my art, believing that it leads to deeper connections with the audience.”
His approach involves extensive sketching, modeling, and experimenting with various materials and 3D technologies.
Using computer-aided design, Kamel refines his concepts before bringing them to life through 3D printing, exploring a variety of finishing techniques to enhance the visual impact of his works.
While acrylic paints are his primary medium, Kamel also uses oils, sprays and other materials to create diverse textures and effects.
“Each material choice is intentional,” Kamel said. “I aim to convey specific qualities and emotions in my work.”
This journey of exploration and innovation allows him to create dynamic pieces that resonate deeply with his personal experiences.
Looking ahead, Kamel is excited about an upcoming project exploring the contemporary superheroes of today’s world.
“These modern-day icons surround us, and I want to capture the essence of their narratives and significance. It’s a fascinating exploration of cultural impact,” he said.
A particularly poignant piece from “The Arrival” draws inspiration from Kamel’s enduring love for anime, especially from the 1980s and early 1990s.
One standout artwork is inspired by the renowned anime series “Astroganger,” known as “Jongar” in the Arab world. This creation holds deep significance for Kamel, symbolizing a challenging yet transformative period in his life.
He said: “This piece represents a moment of personal growth, embodying the resilience and hope I found during tough times. It serves as a reminder of the strength that creativity can provide.”
In “The Arrival,” Kamel invited viewers on a journey that wove together nostalgia, cultural diversity and the boundless potential of 3D printing, offering a truly captivating experience.
As he aptly said: “Art has the power to connect us all, transcending boundaries and celebrating our shared humanity.”
KSrelief delivers prosthetic services, food supplies in Yemen, Lebanon and Pakistan
RIYADH: The King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center’s (KSrelief) ongoing philanthropic work in Yemen, Lebanon and Pakistan continues with the provision of prosthetic services and food supplies in Yemen, Lebanon and Pakistan.
In Yemen’s Hadhramaut governorate, the Prosthetics and Rehabilitation Center in the Seiyun district provided various medical and prosthetic services in December last year to 523 Yemenis who lost limbs, with support KSrelief. Services included the fitting and rehabilitation of prosthetic limbs, physical therapy and specialized consultations.
In Lebanon’s Akkar governorate and Miniyeh District, the aid agency’ fourth phase of the Al-Amal Charity Bakery Project last week distributed 175,000 bags of bread to Syrian and Palestinian refugees as well as the communities hosting them.
The distribution benefited 12,500 families, equivalent to 62,500 individuals.
In Pakistan’s Dadu and Sanghar areas of Sindh province and the Torghar area of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, KSrelief recently handed out 1,500 food boxes to families in areas affected by floods. The latest activity is part of the aid agency’s 2025 Food Security Support Project for the south Asian nation.
KSrelief provides food, relief supplies in Syrian provinces
RIYADH: Saudi aid agency KSrelief has provided vital food assistance and relief aid in several Syrian provinces as part of its ongoing relief project in the country, state news agency SPA reported.
In Homs Governorate, KSrelief on Thursday distributed 14 food parcels, each containing a 10-kilogram bag of flour, along with 14 winter bags and 14 personal care kits in Talbiseh city.
This initiative benefited 1,982 individuals from 382 families as part of the relief materials distribution project there.
The agency also distributed bags of flour, winter kits, and personal care kits on Saturday to 15 families in the city of Al-Rastan in Homs, benefiting 61 individuals.
In As-Suwayda, KSrelief distributed bags of flour, winter kits, and personal care kits on Thursday to 258 families, benefiting 984 individuals.
This aid is part of a larger food distribution project coordinated with the Syrian Arab Red Crescent.
Christina Aguilera, Michael Buble perform at Riyadh’s Joy Awards
- Joy Awards are Saudi Arabia’s largest event honoring the Arab world’s leading artists and their achievements
- Winners were selected based on public voting through an application launched by the General Entertainment Authority
RIYADH: The annual Joy Awards honored Arab talent with musical performances that serenaded a star-studded guest list at Riyadh’s Kingdom Arena on Saturday.
The award show opened with a concert by Christina Aguilera, who performed “The Voice Within” and her hit song “Genie in a Bottle.”
Musical icons Mohammed Abdo and Andrea Bocelli performed together, blending Gulf and Italian sounds.
Lebanese singer Wael Kfoury and Canadian artist Michael Buble collaborated on a striking rendition of Frank Sinatra’s “My Way,” performed in both English and Arabic.
Amanda Seyfried, Morgan Freeman and Matthew McConaughey were among the international and local celebrities who showcased their dazzling ensembles on the ceremony’s iconic lavender carpet on Saturday.
As a tribute to her first visit to the Kingdom, US actress Kate Siegel attended the ceremony wearing a pearly white dress with black drapings by Saudi brand Abadia.
“I picked it because I wanted to represent Saudi Arabian designers and fashion, especially here in Riyadh, which is such an upcoming hot spot for Saudi Arabian fashion,” she said.
Lebanese actress Nawal Kamel arrived in a black and silver studded gown designed by her go-to Lebanese fashion designer, Joelle Nemnum.
“I can’t believe I’m here. I’m very excited to meet the (Saudi) people up close. I know many people from Lebanon but being here and seeing the locals, who are so different and incredible, is amazing. They (Saudis) are so kind and welcoming — they truly lift you up and take care of you. I’m so grateful to be here and to witness the Joy Awards,” she said.
Held at the Kingdom Arena, the Joy Awards are Saudi Arabia’s largest event recognizing and honoring the Arab world’s leading artists and their achievements. The event is part of Riyadh Season and is co-organized by MBC Group.
The winners were selected based on public voting through an application launched by the General Entertainment Authority. The list included candidates across various categories. The nominees were carefully chosen by specialized committees based on their efforts and achievements over the past year.
Saudi fashion startups award reaches final stage
- Fashion Commission CEO Burak Cakmak said that sustainability was central to the commission’s vision for the future of the industry
RIYADH: The Fashion Commission and luxury group Kering have launched the selection process for the winners of the Kering Generation Award X Saudi Arabia.
The initiative aims to support innovative startups making a significant impact on the fashion industry, the Saudi Press Agency reported.
The application process began in November 2024, inviting startups to submit applications and promote sustainability. More than 100 startups applied, with 20 selected to participate in a three-day training camp in Riyadh.
The program featured workshops focused on key performance indicators, goal setting and pitching skills, SPA reported.
On Jan. 14, the shortlist of 20 startups gathered in Riyadh for the final presentation, where each applicant was evaluated on customer engagement, circular economy and water protection.
Following the presentations, the evaluation process began to select the top 10 proposals, which will be assessed by the jury based on innovation, relevance, fashion connection, and potential impact on nature and society.
The awards ceremony will take place on Jan. 27 in Riyadh, where the top three winning startups will be announced.
Winners will have the opportunity to travel to Paris for exclusive mentoring with Kering’s sustainability teams and present their innovations at the ChangeNOW 2025 summit.
Fashion Commission CEO Burak Cakmak said that sustainability was central to the commission’s vision for the future of the industry.
He added that the award aimed to showcase and support startups driving innovation in circular fashion and environmental stewardship.
Cakmak emphasized the commission’s commitment to advancing solutions that address current challenges and pave the way for a sustainable future in fashion.
