Every nation around the world is characterised with a special national identity. The people’s identity mirrors the morality behind their culture and traditions. For instance, the way people dress, greet one another or speak to others mark a part of their culture.
So, national identity can be shaped through literature, culture, arts, traditions, clothes and folklore. However, sometimes cultures of different countries interact with each other in different fields. Thus, foreign cultures should be observed according to the way they influence other cultures.
Hence, how easy and acceptable it is to lose something very personal and precious?! Losing anything of high value is unquestionably displeasing and frustrating. How about losing part of your personal identity, which represents your nationality and who you are? Can you tolerate losing your cultural traditions that stand a part of the country where you were brought up? Isn't it offensive and hurting?
Does anybody like to be described as a person who has no identity or being disrespectful to his culture and nation?
I don’t think so! It is very disgraceful to see people around us disrespecting themselves and their national identity. They are likely more influenced by globalisation and the trend of modern technology. This is obviously reflected in the way they dress and behave, especially in public. Some have been attracted by Hollywood fashion, celebrities and action movies; they imitate some of the dress styles or behaviours while paying no attention to their genuine customs, traditions and morals.
Such people believe they are keeping up with the fashion when they dress in a strange and awkward way, which does not conform to the normal standards. They rarely use their national dress, even when they go to a public place or visit government and private establishment for any official work. Don't these people feel embarrassed to dress like that and face their fellowmen while reflecting looks of disgust and disrespect?
How do you look at or deal with a man approaching a certain public establishment to apply for a certain service, wearing short pants and a shirt or pajamas? Can you imagine a man coming for treatment in a public hospital wearing casual pants and a shirt? I think the public deserves more respect than this.
Speaking of this, the late Sultan Qaboos bin Said pointed out that “It has been very clear to us that our heritage is not only represented by forts, castles and ancient buildings, but by spiritual customs and traditions, by science, art and literature transmitted by one generation to another. The real preservation of heritage will not be accomplished unless we understand this and cherish it”.
Even though the country has embraced different foreign cultures and economic values from all over the world, Oman has always stuck to its roots as far as traditions and culture are concerned. When interacting with other nations, one should embrace what suits his culture and values as well and leave aside what does not go well with the strength of our unique civilization.
Oman’s government has ensured that any development has to be in accordance with the Omani people's cultural identity and natural environment and avoiding over development, which is typical of some countries in the region.
Accordingly, it is very important that young generations learn more about their culture and nationality. The development of national identity is key to the progress of the nation.
Preserving a national identity is a shared responsibility between all segments of people within society. People, especially youth and teenagers should stop focusing on blind imitations from other nations. They must not carelessly imitate other cultures. Omanis should be proud of their rich culture and pristine heritage that differentiate them from others worldwide.
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