By: Dr. Faisal Al-Sarhan – Academic, Researcher, and Writer, Dean of the College of Media and Communication at the Arab Open University – Jordan
Published in Al-Rai Newspaper, Jordan, yesterday
In his new article, Dr. Faisal Al-Sarhan discusses the role of culture and heritage as essential pillars for building national identities and enhancing social cohesion, as they form the collective memory that preserves the history, values, and experiences of nations.
The article highlights the Saudi model in caring for culture and heritage, making them tools for development, economy, tourism, and global image.
Full Article Text:
Culture and heritage are fundamental pillars in building the national identities of peoples and the solid foundation that strengthens the social fabric. They are like the collective memory that preserves the values of a nation, its historical trajectory, and the outcome of its experiences throughout the time it has lived and continues to live. Heritage is not limited to physical landmarks such as buildings, manuscripts, artifacts, and inscriptions; it also extends to intangible heritage such as customs, traditions, folk arts, language, and values. In the Arab world, it constitutes a rich cultural heritage that transcends local geography to become part of the global human legacy.
From a human perspective, culture and heritage represent the true face of any nation. They are the memory that preserves and reflects the journey of states and entities. Without them, peoples become devoid of an identity worthy of recognition, and the train of time passes them by without leaving any marks. Hence, we find that Arab countries pay special attention to this distinguished heritage due to its role as a source of pride and dignity in the lives of their peoples, as well as a foundation for development and progress.
Culture and heritage are not just narrative stories expressed through visual or mental images from the past; they are also the language of the future. They are the essence of authenticity and the soft power that enhances the status of nations. For instance, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has taken into account this cultural and heritage legacy, recognizing that protecting this heritage is a shared responsibility between society, the state, and the media, so that it remains firmly embedded in the collective thought of future generations, both locally and internationally. In this context, it emphasizes the importance of Saudi culture and heritage as two key pillars of the national project, not only because they are linked to the Kingdom's religious and historical significance, but also because they represent an important part of Vision 2030. This is evident in the development of projects such as the "Historic Diriyah" and "Madain Saleh" sites, both listed on the UNESCO World Heritage list, highlighting that culture and heritage are no longer merely a preserved past to be revisited in times of leisure, but an investment in the future, tourism, economy, and a humanized global image.
Communication and media play a significant and unique role in this area. Based on the principles of the "Bridging Barriers" and "Needs and Gratifications" theories, they are capable of conveying this cultural wealth to people, both locally and globally, by using effective communication models, investigative reports, documentaries, digital media campaigns, and exhibitions and seminars. Balanced communication and responsible media significantly contribute to preserving cultural and heritage legacies from fading into oblivion through digital documentation, reminders, and frequent repetition. At the same time, they open avenues for practicing cultural diplomacy, making heritage a tool for rapprochement with the peoples of the world, with Saudi Arabia serving as a model to follow.
To read the article on Al-Rai Newspaper's website: Article Link
