Ahead of the holy month of Ramadan and given the stiff competition between Arabic satellite channels to attract a larger share of the audience, Sharjah Media Corporation (SMC) unveiled an exclusive package of interactive, religious, social, and entertainment programmes, which will be broadcast on Sharjah Radio and Sharjah TV this Ramadan. The announcement was made at a special press conference held today (Thursday, June 14, 2012) at Corniche Al Buhaira Hotel, Sharjah.
The distinguishing aspect of this year’s Ramadan package of programmes is the array of shows and novel ideas – including both new and existing programmes – as it combines education and entertainment, while at the same time being in adherence to Arab and Islamic customs and traditions.
Sharjah Radio and TV are expecting to attract a large share of the audience during the holy month of Ramadan, given the quality and rich content of the programmes that target all age groups. These channels also play a crucial role as the first family channels that cater to the needs of Arab viewers.
Addressing the press conference, H.E. Dr. Khalid Al Midfa, Manager of Sharjah Radio and TV at Sharjah Media Corporation, reaffirmed that SMC continues its commitment to focus on gaining the respect and confidence of Arab viewers by presenting novel content that combines enjoyment, knowledge and moderation.
Dr. Khalid highlighted the importance of the selection of programs that will be broadcast on TV and radio channels during Ramadan, especially since they have occupied a space in the lives of Muslim audiences and have influenced in achieving a balance between the interests of Arab families who value Islamic principles and their desire for fun and entertainment. Further, he reaffirmed Sharjah Radio and TV’s commitment towards its goal of providing meaningful content that is highly valued by Arab viewers.
“SMC believes that it is part of its responsibility to highlight the role of the media and its impact on viewers during Ramadan, because the right media message should focus primarily on the ultimate goal, which is to be impartial, uphold the Ramadan spirit, be pious and request forgiveness and mercy from Allah. This is the message that will mainly be communicated through our new meaningful, religious, social, entertaining and educational programmes. Our Ramadan program schedule will definitely include children’s shows, competitions, diverse programs and dramas, which together enhance the position of Sharjah Radio and TV at the forefront of prominent media institutions in the Arab world,” he added.
Fagr Kassim, Channel One Programs Manager at Sharjah TV noted that the popularity of the channel during previous Ramadan seasons has motivated us to continue providing new and innovative programs, in tune with the culture and history of the UAE and Arab community to meet the aspirations of the family and focus on the noble values of the holy month like tolerance, respect and giving.
Kassim also gave an overview of the Ramadan programmes and shows which will be broadcast on Sharjah TV. The programmes range between social and educational, such as Khawater 8 (Thoughts/Reflections) with Ahmed Al-Shukairy, which discusses issues, be it religious or social, that concern the Arab and Islamic community in a unique manner. Moreover, he noted that Sharjah TV, just like in the past years, will air a wide range of religious shows, like Fatwas (religious advisory opinions) which provides a platform to communicate directly with Sheikh Dr. Aziz Farhan, and the “Imam Al Ghazali” programme which highlights the life of Imam Abu Hamid Al Ghazali and his contributions to religious sciences.
“The viewers can watch the highly-awaited daily program during Ramadan, which is the “Iftar Cannon” programme which includes a live broadcast of the ceremony of firing the Iftar cannon from one of Sharjah’s prominent landmarks, Al Majaz Waterfront, as well as various shows that begin before the Maghrib prayer until Iftar, during which viewers are asked questions and have the opportunity to win attractive prizes. The Ramadan schedule will also include entertaining quiz shows, such as the heritage quiz “Al Sougha” which is distinguished by its traditional settings. Further, dramas will form a significant element of our package of Ramadan programmes, which includes Gulf and Arab dramas, most notably the Gulf drama series “Enta Omry” which addresses social issues such as greed and corruption. The programme schedule will not be complete without focusing on traditional Ramadan dishes through the “Our UAE Kitchen” show which features several Emirati recipes, presented in an artistic, modern and healthy way. It will also show international cuisines with an Emirati flavour prepared by UAE chef Ali Salem,” added Kassim.
Mohammed Khalaf, Head of Sharjah Radio said: “Sharjah Radio has always been keen to offer fresh content in line with the values it was founded on, which are, preserving the Arab culture and heritage, adhering to Islamic values and morals, addressing social problems, strengthening human relationships and entertaining listeners without being offensive. Therefore, the program schedule during Ramadan reflects this vision, upholding Islamic values, and ensuring that no content that is inconsistent with the spirit and sanctity of the holy month is aired.”
Khalaf also gave an overview of the programme schedule, which includes “Al Atheer” show which is presented to listeners during the Ramadan mornings, and revolves around spirituality and faith, taking listeners on a daily journey to discuss various social, cultural and religious topics. This will be followed by religious programs like “Al Khitma Al Ramadaniyah” which is broadcast after the Asr prayer live from a mosque in Sharjah where Reciter Sheikh Shirzad Abdulrahman supervises a holy Quran recitation group accompanied by worshippers of the mosques. Also to be aired is the “Al Reeh Al Mursalah” show which is in collaboration with the Sharjah Charity Association. Khalaf stressed that “Al Khat Al Mubashar” (Hotline) programme will be aired once again in the holy month of Ramadan to serve as the usual link between the listener and the official, live on air, to find effective solutions to problems and issues and deliver observations and suggestions to the concerned authorities.
During evenings, Sharjah Radio will involve its listeners in the “Khalkam Wiyana” show, which is a live daily show that includes various competitions and open conversations inside the Ramadan tent with the involvement of radio and television audiences. The format of the programme requires the audience to answer questions and give their opinion on certain topics, providing them an opportunity to win prizes. Sharjah Radio will also present entertaining programmes full of fun contests and competitions during Ramadan with the “Raseedak b Edak” live show. It requires the listener to be highly attentive as they need to answer questions related to specific audio clips, in addition to daily SMS competitions.
