MUSCAT — Residents in the Sultanate have backed a recent report released by the US State Department that hails the Sultanate for allowing freedom of religion, within the general frameworks it has laid.

The Annual Report for Religious Freedom 2009 had pointed out that basic law prohibits discrimination based on religion and provides the freedom to practise religious rights.

The statement also affirmed there were no reports of discrimination based on religious affiliation, belief, or practice.

Helen Sayers, a resident of Muscat, says, “It is a great tribute to the hospitality, openness and far-sightedness of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said that people of different faiths are able to live together with mutual respect, harmony and dignity.”

“This adds to the richness of living in a country which cherishes its traditions while welcoming modern development and international and multicultural exchange,” she says.

Helen Sayers also adds, “During my stay, I have enjoyed visiting and attending lectures at the Grand Mosque, taking part in Christmas celebrations at the church in Ruwi, and learning about Hindu festivals at the temples. I participate in seminars and meditations arranged by the Rajayoga Education and Research Foundation, which offers value education, strengthens the spirit, and increases our capacity to live according to universal values. It is for people of all faiths.

Moderate ideals

Says Yousef Al Busaidi, member of OCCI board and chairman of the Entrepreneurs Forum: “The Sultanate is one of the few countries in the Middle East which has moderate ideals on religion and works to promote religious tolerance.

“The statute of the State in the Sultanate prohibits discrimination among citizens on the basis of religion and provides freedom of religious practice. The wise policy of His Majesty in this respect was appreciated and praised by international institutions concerned with freedom of religion and tolerance among religions. The US State Department report is best proof of the Sultanate’s freedom of religion,” he says.

Al Busaidi says the report published states that Omani government’s policies have contributed to ensure the free exercise of religion in general.

It also highlights there are no reports of violations recorded in the Omani society on the basis of religious affiliation, belief or practice.

Moving forward

The report also notes that His Majesty has earmarked a plot of land for non-Muslim communities in the Sultanate to practise their religion. Besides, no report was monitored of compelling any non-Muslim to convert their religion.

“The Sultanate has moved forward to further ensure freedom of religion by hosting forums that promote dialogue between religions.

All of these certificates and much more demonstrate a large extent on the religious tolerance enjoyed by people of the Sultanate. This tolerance is a feature of His Majesty the Sultan’s wise policy,” he says.

According to Ross Cormack, CEO, Nawras, there are many forward thinking approaches that make the Sultanate a fabulous place to live and work.

“Under the wise leadership of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos Bin Said, the country hosts people from diverse backgrounds, giving a warm welcome to residents and visitors alike.

“This is one of the reasons tourism is taking off in such a positive way in the Sultanate and will continue to flourish and succeed here. Personally, I feel very privileged to be living here with my family, and through Nawras, to be serving people living in the Sultanate — both nationals and non-Omanis — with our pleasingly different communication services,” he added.