MUSCAT -- As we savour the many benefits that have been brought about during this period of blessed, modern-day renaissance that has seen comprehensive development in all of Oman's socio-economic strata and has substantially helped to raise the standard of living of not only Omani nationals, but the many expatriates who have had and are having the good fortune of calling the Sultanate their home.
Today, we celebrate the coming to the throne of our noble leader His Majesty Sultan Qaboos, who for the past forty-four years, since his accession to the throne, has done so much to instigate the developments that we can all enjoy today. His Majesty the Sultan encouraged and motivated his people, from the time of the pioneers in the 70's and 80's to new generations of well-educated and inspired Omanis, to give their best for the benefit of the nation.
Thanks to all of these positive and proactive efforts and the unstinting leadership of His Majesty and His Majesty's government, we can all celebrate and commemorate this important occasion.
Here are some comments from Omani citizens and residents who gave their thoughts and wishes for today's Renaissance Day:
Manuela Gutberlet, PR Manager German University of Technology in Oman (GUtech) and PhD candidate at RWTH Aachen University, Department of Cultural Geography, gave her "Congratulations to His Majesty Sultan Qaboos and the people of Oman on the occasion of the Renaissance Day.
Making basic education available for all -- women and men alike -- is a major success story for the progress of Oman, which has led to a fast development of the country within the past forty-four years, and, thus, also reduced the dependency on education abroad. Today, many young graduates work in companies in various fields and worldwide.
The rich history of Oman, as a seafaring nation, has been marked by trade, travel and interaction between different regions and cultures. For the current period of modernisation and globalisation, I wish that Oman will distinguish itself, protect its beautiful landscape, its cultural heritage and its Islamic values and traditions for future generations.
Wishing the people of Oman many more achievements in various fields."
Madny al Bakry retired Officer, Ministry of Defence, said, "I am blessed to witness the second renaissance of my beloved Oman. The first was long before the greatness of Greece and Rome, Oman was already a rich civilisation known as 'Magan'.
Now as a modern state we are all enjoying the fruits of progress, brought about by and through the wise leadership of His Majesty the Sultan. Moreover, I also greatly appreciate the peace and tranquillity that surrounds us in these times of uncertainty in the region. I am thankful!"
Ali bin Said al Mandhry, Retired PDO Head of Medical Laboratory and former Editor of PDO Health Newsletter, said, "His Majesty Sultan Qaboos began his reign on July 23, 1970 with a promise towards a journey of development and prosperity, as he then stated "My people, my brothers, yesterday it was complete darkness and with the help of God, tomorrow will be a new dawn on Muscat, Oman and its people". Every citizen of this great country and wider community would agree that His Majesty has kept his promise.
The face of Oman has transformed to international standards, due to the sound policies and directives of His Majesty. Every service is covered -- Education, Health, Infrastructure, etc, and has progressed remarkably to ensure citizens enjoy the good life and the fruits of the country's development.
We are all proud of our beloved wise leader and icon of peace, both regionally and internationally, for building this nation and putting us on the map with this incredible transformation that has taken place within a short span of time, since he came to the throne forty-four years back.
May the Almighty Allah grant him good health and long life with peace and prosperity."
Adil Maskary, former refinery engineer, noted, "Judgment of any developed nation is indicated by the management of its domestic household/industrial waste. My wishes this year, are for reduction of waste from houses through control of consumption, segregate valuable material such as plastic, glass and metals to the recycling facilities, this initiative will not only shine-up the country, but will create new industry as well as to provide new jobs.
© Oman Daily Observer 2014
