Sharjah: National Identity in the GCC region was under question as the UAE’s cultural reality was brought to the forefront at a conference in Sharjah titled “The Role of Museums and Cultural Institutions in Strengthening Identity.”
“It’s important to realise that there is a loss of cultural identity across the GCC — there is vulnerability in the region,” said Najeeb Al Shamsi, Economic Adviser at the Gulf Cooperation Council, who discussed his paper on the importance of traditional heritage in preserving cultural identity in the UAE.
Al Shamsi highlighted globalisation, consumerism and political conflict as some of the main factors that have contributed to the weakening of cultural identity among individuals, which he says is most apparent in youth. “New generations are suffering from duality and they have a schizophrenic attitude towards different topics,” he said. From education, to media to fashion, Al Shamsi said the region has adopted educational systems, and economical and social approaches that are not in line with its own Arabic and Islamic cultural identity.
He also pointed out that through TV shows, books, and the media, the dissemination of these ideals have resulted in a shift in concepts and values, and have “polluted the environment.”
With a long list of challenges, Al Shamsi urged educational institutions and cultural organisations such as schools, universities and museums to work together to reinforce the relation between the individual and culture in the Emirati community. “Its important for everyone in the community to understand their role and duties in tackling these challenges,” he added.
Cultural foundation is necessary
Describing heritage as the soul of a nation, Al Shamsi praised countries such as India, Japan and China who progressed socially and economically whilst preserving their language, tradition and culture. “These countries relied on their own cultural and moral systems that protected and preserved their communities,” he said.
Another speaker, Abdul Aziz Al Musallam, Director of Heritage Department and Cultural Affairs in Sharjah highlighted the importance of history and ‘intangible heritage.’ “We have to focus on instilling intangible heritage which is an essence of heritage that is inside each individual — this kind of heritage lasts a lot longer,” said Al Musallam. Recalling folklore and traditional sayings, he also emphasised the role of parents and teachers in embedding tradition in their families and children.
The two-day conference, which is taking place at the Sharjah Archeology Museum, will host over a dozen officials and representatives. Organised by the Sharjah Museum Department (SMD), the conference will end on December 18.
