OIC rights group meets in Jeddah to tackle ‘scourge’ of racism

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Mohammed Lawal Sulaiman chairperson of IPHRC right, the assistant secretary-general for political affairs at OIC, Yousef Al-Dobeay left. (X)
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Updated 26 November 2023
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OIC rights group meets in Jeddah to tackle ‘scourge’ of racism

  • Member states ‘at forefront of anti-racism efforts,’ says official
  • Commission chief condemns ‘hardship inflicted on Palestinians’

JEDDAH: Addressing violations of human rights is top of the agenda for the 22nd regular session of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation’s Independent Permanent Human Rights Commission, which kicked off on Sunday and will continue for five days at the organization’s headquarters in Jeddah.

The session is being held under the theme “Reforms for a Better Future,” and is organized in cooperation with the Saudi Human Rights Commission.

Among those attending the opening day were Hala bint Mazyad Al-Tuwaijri, the commission’s president; Yalmaz Tunc, Turkiye’s minister of justice; Mohammed Lawal Sulaiman, IPHRC chairperson; and Noura Al-Rashoud, IPHRC executive director.

Representatives of member states, observer states, and experts from international and regional organizations were also present.

Yousef Al-Dobeay, OIC assistant secretary-general for political affairs, inaugurated the session with a speech that discussed “Elimination of Racial Discrimination: An Islamic and Human Rights Perspective.”

The address focused on ways to address the growing problem of discrimination, including contemporary aspects racial intolerance.

Al-Dobeay said that both the organization and the international community recognize the valuable contribution of the commission in promoting and protecting human rights independently, neutrally, and objectively.

“The commission has played a significant role in providing consistent recommendations to member states on various issues to ensure global human rights compliance and basic freedoms with Islamic values,” he said.

Al-Dobeay highlighted the severe consequences of racial discrimination on individuals and communities, saying that intolerance perpetuates social inequality, limits opportunities for social and employment progress, undermines mental and physical well-being, and can contribute to social conflicts and a weakened sense of belonging.

“The OIC, along with its member states, remains at the forefront of anti-racism efforts, actively contributing to setting standard measures that have helped combat this scourge,” he added.

Sulaiman told Arab News that the IPHRC “is set to tell the Muslim world that Islam also has great respect for human rights.”

He said that the session will discuss “the issue of racial discrimination, to show that as far as Islam is concerned, whether you are white or black, you are the same.”

Referring to the humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza, Sulaiman said: “We strongly condemn the actions taken against the Palestinians. Our daily prayers are dedicated to imploring Almighty Allah to safeguard them, and to provide protection against those responsible for inflicting such hardship.

“We are deeply distressed by the current events and have unequivocally expressed our disapproval. Our statement has been widely circulated and is endorsed by all members of the independent OIC. It is universally acknowledged within the OIC that the situation in Gaza is regrettable, and we urge the UN to take immediate measures to halt these distressing events.”

The opening session discussed Islamic and institutional standards for eliminating racial discrimination, while the second session focused on international efforts and strategies to combat racial discrimination and its contemporary aspects. A third session highlighted the role of media and national experiences in eliminating racial discrimination.

This was followed by an open discussion among commission members, OIC member states, observer states, and their national human rights institutions, along with the responses of the main speakers.

In the coming week, closed meetings will be held for working groups, including civil, political, economic, social, and cultural rights in the member states. There will also be discussions on human rights violations in Palestine, and in Jammu and Kashmir.

Additionally, regular meetings of its four working groups related to Palestine, women and children’s rights, Islamophobia and Muslim communities, and the right to development, will be held.

The 22nd session will conclude with decisions aimed at developing an action plan for the IPHRC, along with a workshop on “The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Human Rights: Challenges and Opportunities” to generate recommendations for member states to improve their human rights policies and programs.


King Abdullah Medical City in Makkah pioneers first robotic thoracic surgery with Da Vinci system

Updated 41 min 35 sec ago
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King Abdullah Medical City in Makkah pioneers first robotic thoracic surgery with Da Vinci system

  • Dr. Adel Tash, CEO of KAMC, told Arab News that the launch of the service is a significant medical milestone

MAKKAH: King Abdullah Medical City in Makkah has successfully performed the first precise robotic thoracic surgery using the Da Vinci Xi system.

Dr. Adel Tash, CEO of KAMC, told Arab News that the launch of the service is a significant medical milestone, further solidifying the city’s role as a leading reference center for advanced specialized healthcare, driven by the latest innovations in medical and surgical technology.

“The first case involved a patient in his thirties who suffered from recurrent air accumulations in his left chest cavity, causing persistent breathing difficulties. Tests revealed cysts in the upper and lower lobes of his left lung. These cysts were successfully removed, and the lung was attached to the chest wall using a surgical robot during a delicate operation that took an hour and a half,” Tash said.

The operation was performed under the leadership of Dr. Muteb Al-Zaidi, a consultant in thoracic, esophageal, and gastric surgery, using robotic and minimally invasive endoscopic techniques. He was assisted by Dr. Ayman Jaafar, assistant consultant in thoracic surgery, in collaboration with a specialized team from the anesthesia and nursing departments.

Tash said robotic surgery is characterized by the high precision provided by the 3D camera, and the ability to precisely access complex areas of the body with minimal intervention, which is reflected in reduced post-operative pain, accelerated recovery, and faster discharge of the patient from the hospital compared with traditional operations.

He said that traditional operations required surgical incisions that could be more than 10 centimeters whereas a single incision in robotic surgery does not exceed 1 cm, which reduces side effects and improves overall surgical outcomes.

Tash concluded by underscoring KAMC’s ongoing commitment to adopting the latest scientific technologies and providing advanced and safe healthcare services that contribute to improving patients’ quality of life and making the treatment experience a model to be emulated across the Kingdom and the region.

In this context, KAMC, a member of the Makkah Health Cluster, launched the Da Vinci surgical system, positioning itself among the first healthcare institutions in the Western Region to adopt this state-of-the-art technology for intricate and high-precision surgeries. This step is expected to enhance the quality of medical services and elevate the patient experience, aligning with the goals of the Kingdom’s Vision 2030.

The Da Vinci system is a robotic platform that allows surgeons to perform complex procedures with exceptional precision. Operated from a central console, the system translates the surgeon’s hand movements into highly refined, microscopic actions, enhanced by a high-definition, magnified 3D view of the surgical site. It comprises three key components: the surgeon console, where the surgeon directs the procedure via an advanced visual interface; the patient cart, which houses robotic arms equipped with surgical instruments and a high-resolution camera; and the vision cart, responsible for image transmission and visual processing. Crucially, the system is not autonomous. The entire operation is performed under the full control of a surgeon.

The system was first used at KAMC in a thoracic surgery, followed by a complex procedure for a patient with uterine cancer. The surgery was completed without complications, and the patient was discharged in less than 24 hours.

KAMC now plans to expand the system’s use to a wide range of specialties, including urology, gastrointestinal surgery, thoracic and cardiac procedures, bariatric surgery, and other advanced general surgeries.

The system offers a range of technical and medical advantages, including high-definition 3D visualization that allows surgeons to observe intricate anatomical details with exceptional clarity; ultra-precise instrument control that mimics the natural movement of the human hand with microscopic accuracy; and minimally invasive procedures through small incisions, which significantly reduce pain, blood loss, and the risk of infection.

Patients benefit from faster recovery times, shorter hospital stays, and improved surgical outcomes with lower complication rates compared with traditional surgery. Additionally, the system supports advanced surgical education and training through a safe, highly accurate simulation environment.

KAMC seeks to broaden the application of robotic surgery across additional subspecialties, advance physician training through immersive virtual reality simulations, and use smart analytics and artificial intelligence to elevate the precision, efficiency and overall quality of surgical outcomes.


Saudi Arabia reports five heat exhaustion cases among pilgrims, urges precautions amid soaring temperatures

As temperatures soared at the holy sites, Saudi Arabia confirmed five cases of heat exhaustion among pilgrims. (AP/File)
Updated 30 May 2025
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Saudi Arabia reports five heat exhaustion cases among pilgrims, urges precautions amid soaring temperatures

  • Kingdom’s National Center for Meteorology forecast hot to extremely hot weather conditions at holy sites during Hajj

MAKKAH: As temperatures soared at the holy sites, Saudi Arabia confirmed five cases of heat exhaustion among the more than one million pilgrims who have arrived to perform Hajj rituals.

All those affected received immediate medical attention and are currently in a stable condition, according to the ministry of health, which added that health teams were on high alert to respond swiftly to similar cases as part of the Kingdom’s commitment to safeguarding the health and safety of pilgrims.

The country’s National Center for Meteorology has forecast hot to extremely hot weather conditions at the holy sites during this year’s Hajj season.

According to the center, maximum temperatures are expected to range between 40°C and 47°C, while minimum temperatures will vary between 27°C and 32°C. Humidity levels are projected to fluctuate between 15 percent and 60 percent.

In a post on its X account, the ministry urged pilgrims to stay hydrated, avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, and follow official health guidelines, such as using shaded walkways, wearing appropriate protective gear, and seeking help at the first signs of fatigue.

“If not treated promptly, heat exhaustion can escalate to heat stroke within 10-15 minutes — a life-threatening medical emergency,” the post stated.

The ministry also advised pilgrims who experience heat exhaustion symptoms to begin immediate cooling measures, such as washing their hands, faces and necks with cold water and moving to a cooler area, as well as drinking plenty of cold water to rehydrate.

In its post, the ministry identified headache, excessive sweating, nausea, dizziness, and severe thirst as key clinical symptoms of heat exhaustion.

Multilingual awareness campaigns have been launched, and field preparedness has been reinforced, particularly in response to seasonal heat risks.

The ministry had announced the health sector's readiness to receive pilgrims, revealing a 60 percent increase in bed capacity compared with last year.

Fahad Al-Jalajel, the minister of health, recently confirmed the deployment of over 50,000 medical and technical personnel to serve pilgrims and emphasized the stability of the health situation, with no reported outbreaks or epidemics, according to the Saudi Press Agency.

“Health efforts began early in pilgrims’ homelands by analyzing international health risks and issuing clear health requirements, including vaccinations against yellow fever, meningitis, polio, COVID-19, and influenza,” SPA reported, citing Al-Jalajel.

The minister underscored the role of the health certificate as the first line of defense during the Hajj season, noting that the Kingdom’s health system launched its services with the arrival of the first Makkah Route Initiative flight.

As part of the Kingdom’s comprehensive preparations, 14 land, air, and sea ports have been fully equipped, delivering more than 50,000 health services so far, including 140 surgical procedures, 65 cardiac catheterizations, and six open-heart surgeries, the minister said.

To combat heatstroke risks, Al-Jalajel announced a series of measures in coordination with the Royal Commission for Makkah City and Holy Sites. These include planting more than 10,000 trees, installing 400 additional water coolers and misting fans, and expanding shaded pedestrian pathways to protect pilgrims from extreme heat.

The ministry of health has also intensified awareness efforts through multilingual campaigns, stationing field teams, launching media programs, and organizing medical missions to ensure important health information reaches all pilgrims.

Al-Jalajel further revealed the establishment of a new 200-bed emergency hospital in Mina, developed in collaboration with Kidana Development Co.

In addition, three new field hospitals with more than 1,200 beds have been set up in partnership with the ministries of national guard, defense, and interior.

These were inaugurated “alongside 71 emergency points, 900 ambulances, 11 evacuation aircraft, and over 7,500 paramedics,” Al-Jalajel told SPA.

The minister urged pilgrims to follow health guidelines and affirmed that the Kingdom’s health system is operating at full capacity to ensure a safe and healthy Hajj season for all.


Prince Abdulaziz bin Saud meets citizens of Taif Governorate

Updated 8 sec ago
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Prince Abdulaziz bin Saud meets citizens of Taif Governorate

  • Taif is fast becoming a major tourist hub in the Kingdom, with visitors arriving from around the world, including the Gulf, to enjoy its pristine environment and natural attractions during holiday celebrations

TAIF: Saudi Minister of Interior Prince Abdulaziz bin Saud bin Naif conveyed the greetings of King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to the citizens of Taif governorate.

It came during his recent meeting with several citizens from the governorate, in the presence of Deputy Gov. of Makkah Region Prince Saud bin Mishaal bin Abdulaziz and Taif Gov. Prince Saud bin Nahar.

Taif is fast becoming a major tourist hub in the Kingdom, with visitors arriving from around the world, including the Gulf, to enjoy its pristine environment and natural attractions during holiday celebrations.

The region is home to spacious valleys and ample water courses.

 


Jeddah’s Historic District hosts literary gathering featuring leading Saudi screenwriters

Updated 30 May 2025
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Jeddah’s Historic District hosts literary gathering featuring leading Saudi screenwriters

  • The session was moderated by media personality Reham Farrash
  • Danya Al-Hamrani, co-founder of Maflam, said: “Events like this reflect Maflam’s mission to spark meaningful dialogue and inspire the next generation of creatives”

JEDDAH: The literary gathering Writers’ Night was held on Thursday at Cinema Al-Balad in Jeddah, where leading Saudi screenwriters Afnan Linjawi, Dahlia Baeshen, and Dania Al-Tayeb shared their experiences and insights on creativity.

Organized by Maflam, which offers comprehensive training in filmmaking, the evening attracted literature and cinema enthusiasts eager to explore the craft of writing.

The session was moderated by media personality Reham Farrash.

Danya Al-Hamrani, co-founder and chief creative officer of Maflam, said: “It’s a pleasure to bring together such talented scriptwriters under one roof. Events like this reflect Maflam’s mission to spark meaningful dialogue and inspire the next generation of creatives.”

The event opened a candid dialogue around the challenges and inspirations shaping Saudi scriptwriters today.

Linjawi said: “My journey as a writer has been long and wonderful all at once. I have experimented with many forms of creative writing, from poetry to stage play to screenwriting. I have also grown from writing (for) myself to writing for others.”

She emphasized that her goal for the evening was to “have an open discussion with the audience” and to “demystify the writing process for others,” highlighting the varied and wide-ranging routes to becoming a writer.

Likewise, Al-Tayeb shared her deep connection to storytelling, saying: “Real-life conversations and events fuel my writing, but what truly drives the process is curiosity and a tiny bit of emotional masochism.
“My stories aim to hold up a mirror without offering easy answers because today’s audiences crave honesty and emotional truth. Inspiration often strikes like lightning, yet the real creative work happens in the quiet, unglamorous struggles behind the scenes, self-doubt, late nights, and the occasional existential crisis. These challenges seep into my characters, who carry pieces of my own fears, obsessions, and heartbreaks, living in better lighting through my writing.”

Cinema Al-Balad, established by director Abdullah Saharti and producer Waheed Jamjoum, has rapidly become a cultural landmark in Jeddah’s historic district, part of the Ministry of Culture’s initiative to position Historic Jeddah as a global cultural and heritage destination.

Saharti explained the significance of the collaboration: “This artistic cinema combines carefully curated film screenings with artistic workshops. Through it, we revive the memories once created by Cinema Hosh Jamjoum, the first cinematic courtyard in Jeddah, by introducing modern concepts and unique contemporary creativity that reflects the environment in which art and literature originated.”
He described Writers’ Night as “an important evening to empower Saudi filmmakers in the industry” and highlighted Cinema Al-Balad’s role in supporting the local film industry.

He shared plans for an exciting lineup of events: “Our program includes screenings, or ‘Arab Film Nights,’ every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, featuring carefully selected award-winning films from global and Arab film festivals. Every Sunday, we host filmmaking workshops.

Mondays are dedicated to classic Arabic and international films, while Tuesdays provide a platform to showcase Saudi filmmakers. On Wednesdays, in collaboration with Maflam, we present a special night dedicated to Saudi filmmakers, with artistic sessions that enrich the community of cinema creators and lovers of the seventh art.”


Enhance your Hajj experience with essential apps

Updated 30 May 2025
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Enhance your Hajj experience with essential apps

  • One of the most essential apps for Hajj is Nusuk
  • For those who appreciate interactive tools, 3D Hajj is a game-changer

Rahaf Jambi
RIYADH: Although Hajj is a profound journey for millions of Muslims every year, the spiritual fulfillment comes with numerous logistical challenges.
Fortunately, a wide range of applications is available to assist pilgrims throughout their journey, from planning and navigation to spiritual support.

Key apps for Hajj

Nusuk
One of the most essential apps for Hajj is Nusuk, developed by the Saudi government.
The app is an all-in-one resource for pilgrims, simplifying the planning process by providing information on visa applications and facilitating arrangements for Umrah and Rawdah slots.

3D Hajj
For those who appreciate interactive tools, 3D Hajj is a game-changer. This app features a detailed 3D model of key Hajj locations, allowing users to visually explore the sites they will visit ahead of time.
It provides step-by-step instructions for rituals, making it easier for pilgrims to understand and engage in the practices required during Hajj.

PHVG Hajj Navigator
Navigating the various sites during Hajj can be daunting. So Hajj Navigator — developed by Pakistan Hajj Volunteers Group, which is made up of Pakistani expatriates living in the Kingdom — addresses this challenge by providing real-time navigation assistance at Hajj sites.
Pilgrims can access resources that alleviate potential hassles, ensuring they can focus on their spiritual practices without getting lost in the crowd.
This app is particularly valuable given the vastness of the Hajj area and the sheer number of people present.

Qibla Finder
A crucial aspect of a Muslim’s daily practice is prayer, which requires the correct qibla direction.
Qibla Finder assists pilgrims in locating the qibla, ensuring they can perform their prayers accurately while maintaining their connection to Makkah.
This app is a simple yet important tool for anyone on the spiritual journey.

Labbayk
An official application from the government of Bangladesh, Labbayk provides a digital companion throughout the pilgrimage.
This app’s resources are tailored to the needs of its users including an SOS function in case of emergencies, helping users navigate the complexities of Hajj while ensuring they have access to relevant information and support during their journey.

Pak Hajj 2025
Pak Hajj 2025 is a valuable resource developed by Pakistan’s Ministry of Religious Affairs.
This app delivers updates and information specifically for the 2025 Hajj season. It prepares pilgrims from Pakistan by keeping them informed about the latest developments, requirements, and resources.

Dua and Azkar
Spirituality is at the heart of Hajj, and Dua and Azkar is a valuable resource for supplications and remembrance.
This app helps users stay spiritually connected and focused on their journey by providing a wide range of prayers and reminders that enhance their spiritual experience.

Hislo
Exploring Islamic heritage sites adds depth to the Hajj experience. Developed by Saudi Noorah Al-Kadi, Hislo helps users locate and navigate these historical sites using GPS technology.
This app allows pilgrims to enrich their journey by discovering the history and significance of various locations and includes a social sharing element.

HHR Train
Traveling between major cities during Hajj can be complicated, but the official HHR Train app simplifies the process of booking and traveling on the Haramain railway between Makkah, Madinah, and Jeddah.
This efficient transport option reduces travel time and enhances convenience for pilgrims.

Ride-hailing services
Getting around can also be managed by using ride-hailing services. Careem is a cost-effective option that is often cheaper than Uber, providing reliable transport for pilgrims. Uber is a dependable choice for those preferring professional drivers and an established service.
Incorporating these apps into your Hajj journey can significantly enhance the pilgrimage experience.