Islamic Heritage: Saudi Arabia Elected Chair of Heritage Committee
Saudi Arabia has been elected as chair of the 11th meeting of the Islamic Heritage Committee in the Islamic World. This appointment reflects the country’s growing influence and commitment to preserving cultural heritage within the Islamic world. Engineer Mohammed Al-Eidros has been selected to lead this crucial committee for the next four years. He is serving as the advisor to the Saudi National Committee for Education, Culture, and Science. Al-Eidros would bring a fresh perspective to safeguarding and promoting the rich cultural and historical heritage of Islamic nations.
Role & Significance of World Heritage Committee
The Islamic World Heritage Committee (IWHC) functions under the aegis of the Islamic Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ISESCO). It, significantly, plays a pivotal role in preserving the cultural and historical heritage of the Islamic world. It focuses on identifying, documenting, and safeguarding significant sites and traditions across Islamic countries. The committee’s objectives extend beyond preservation. It also aims to promote understanding and appreciation of Islamic heritage globally. The committee also aims to actively engage in efforts to protect and rehabilitate cultural and civilizational heritage. Accordingly, this will contribute to socio-economic development in Member States.
Saudi Arabia’s Leadership in the Committee
Under the leadership of Saudi Arabia, the committee also aims to enhance its initiatives in preserving the cultural Islamic heritage. Al-Eidros’s leadership would focus on international cooperation and the promotion of the rich cultural legacy of the Islamic world. This may also drive the committee’s efforts towards new and impactful projects and collaborations.
12th Conference of Islamic World’s Culture Ministers
The conference hosted by Qatar in September 2023 played a critical role in setting new goals and reflecting on the committee’s past achievements. The outcomes of this conference are significant in shaping the committee’s future strategies, particularly focusing on the promotion and protection of Islamic cultural heritage.
Preservation and Promotion of Islamic Heritage
ISESCO’s strategies for heritage preservation encompass registering historical sites and cultural elements of Islamic countries on the Islamic World Heritage List (IWHL). The organization emphasizes capacity building for youth and professionals in the heritage sector, aiming to safeguard heritage sites and foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of Islamic culture and history. This includes initiatives like the Electronic Portal for Archaeological and Historic Landmarks in the Islamic World and the creation of a digital and interactive database for various elements of architectural and urban heritage.
Future Directions for Islamic World Heritage
With Saudi Arabia’s chairmanship, the committee would embark on new paths for heritage preservation. This includes enhanced efforts in digital preservation, educational programs, and international collaborations. The committee’s future actions will be crucial in shaping the perception and value of Islamic heritage globally, with a focus on boosting action and exerting further efforts to preserve heritage in the Member States.
Related Topics:
Review: Investment Opportunity in Jazan’s Heritage Village
Antame Program Launched to Promote Saudi Heritage
New Graduates Revive Jeddah’s Architectural Heritage
