Reinforcing its long-standing relationship with the media, Bank Muscat, the leading financial services provider in the Sultanate of Oman, hosted its annual Media Forum, bringing together senior journalists and media professionals representing traditional and digital media outlets across the Sultanate. The annual forum underscores the Bank’s commitment to fostering open dialogue and strengthening its partnership with the media, which has played an important role throughout its more than four decades of growth and achievements.
The event featured a session titled “Towards Sustainable Financial Literacy”, delivered by Yousuf Al Mufarji, a financial literacy trainer. The session highlighted the importance of financial literacy in enabling individuals to make informed and responsible financial decisions. Key topics included developing sound saving habits, planning for early retirement, maintaining financial stability for individuals and families, and taking the first steps towards investing with confidence and awareness.
In her opening remarks, Sheikha Yousuf Al Farsi, Deputy CEO – Operations at Bank Muscat, said: “The annual Media Forum reflects Bank Muscat’s commitment to strengthening its partnership with the local media. It provides a valuable opportunity to engage directly with our media partners, express our appreciation for their continued support and exchange ideas and insights that contribute to our ongoing development. We believe that promoting financial literacy is a shared responsibility, and that the media plays a vital role in communicating this message to a wider audience and contributing to the development of a financially aware generation.”
Journalists attending the event welcomed the initiative and commended Bank Muscat for continuing to provide a platform for dialogue and knowledge-sharing. They highlighted the forum’s role in raising financial awareness and promoting sound financial practices across society.
Khalfan bin Saif Al Toqi, a Writer & Economic Analyst, said: “We appreciate Bank Muscat’s efforts in organising these sessions, which provide valuable insights into topics of public interest, particularly financial literacy, savings and retirement planning. Such engagements enrich our content and help us communicate accurate and reliable information to our audiences.”
Faiza bin Swailem Al Kalbani, a Journalist for Al Roya Newspaper, noted: “These forums play an important role in strengthening the partnership between Bank Muscat and the media. Direct engagement with the Bank’s specialists keeps us well-informed of the latest developments and enhances our understanding of financial and banking matters, contributing to the quality and accuracy of media content. We look forward to building on this cooperation in the years ahead.”
Bank Muscat regularly engages with media partners to share updates on its activities and initiatives, with a particular focus on Maliyat, its financial literacy programme. The initiative encompasses an online platform offering free financial literacy courses, as well as the Maliyat Academy, developed in collaboration with the Ministry of Education to equip school students with essential financial knowledge and skills. To date, the Academy has benefited more than 170,000 students. Maliyat also extends its reach to other segments of society through targeted programmes, including initiatives for couples preparing for marriage, implemented in cooperation with the Ministry of Social Development.
Through these initiatives, Bank Muscat continues to reinforce its commitment to promoting financial literacy and responsible financial practices across Omani society. By working closely with key stakeholders, the Bank aims to empower individuals with the knowledge and skills needed to make informed financial decisions and contribute to a more sustainable financial future for individuals, families and institutions.
