Muscat: Organized by the Ministry of Social Development, the two-day event aims to promote public awareness, enhance social responsibility initiatives, and align projects with Oman Vision 2040.

The forum brings together government, private sector, and civil society representatives to explore sustainable social responsibility models, foster strategic partnerships, and develop governance frameworks that ensure impactful and measurable contributions to Omani society.

In his opening remarks, His Excellency Sheikh Rashid bin Ahmed Al Shamsi, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Social Development, emphasized efforts to establish a national governance system for social responsibility programs, linking initiatives across Oman’s governorates through a unified electronic platform. This system aims to enhance transparency, improve project financing, and create job opportunities, ensuring sustainable economic growth and social justice.

Haitham bin Salem Al Salmi, CEO of Muscat Stock Exchange, highlighted the financial sector’s role in sustainability, announcing that the Muscat Stock Exchange (MSX) has launched a Center for Sustainable Investment to promote development projects over traditional donations. He also introduced the Tripartite Governance Guide, which sets 30 corporate standards, including a social responsibility reporting framework for public joint-stock companies.

Dr. Yousef bin Salem Al-Faliti, General Supervisor at the Oman Vision 2040 Unit, outlined national priorities for social welfare and protection, emphasizing the creation of a sustainable and fair social safety net. The strategy targets women, children, youth with disabilities, and other vulnerable groups, ensuring access to advanced social services, economic empowerment, and an inclusive, cohesive society.

The forum showcased several corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives, including:

A visual presentation, “Loyal to the Community”, which highlighted ongoing Ministry of Social Development projects in need of support.

A presentation by Petroleum Development Oman (PDO), detailing its efforts in supporting civil society institutions as a bridge between the public and private sectors.

A session on “Towards a National Framework for Social Responsibility in Oman”, discussing international CSR best practices, governance pillars, and corporate accountability.

As part of the event, the forum honored leading companies and institutions that have demonstrated outstanding commitment to social responsibility in Oman.

The forum will continue tomorrow with interactive workshops covering:

Designing social responsibility strategies and implementation mechanisms

Social responsibility and governance from a leadership perspective

Accelerating sustainable development goals through CSR initiatives