Parliament backs HM King’s roadmap on Jobs and Growth

TDT | Manama

Email : editor@newsofbahrain.com

MPs have unanimously approved His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa’s economic diversification programme, endorsing key priorities from job creation to national identity, according to a draft reply prepared.  

Announced in the Royal Address opening the fourth ordinary session of the sixth legislative term, the programme sets out a national agenda focused on empowering youth and women, strengthening foreign policy and security, and accelerating economic development.  

Lawmakers praised HRH Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, for enhancing coordination between state bodies and launching new initiatives to support jobseekers.

Press  

On the legislative side, the draft reply highlights the ratification of Law No. 41 of 2025, which amends Decree-Law No. 47 of 2002 regulating the press, printing and publishing. The Council pledges support for training and modern professional systems to strengthen media standards.  

The reply identifies digital transformation, artificial intelligence and non-oil sectors as central to future growth. MPs note that the Council is reviewing draft laws on AI governance, cybersecurity, digital government and updated data-protection rules as part of building a knowledge-based economy.

Research fund  

To support national innovation, the draft proposes a research and innovation fund for projects in AI, advanced technologies and sustainable energy. It calls for more future-focused academic specialisations in universities, their inclusion in scholarship plans, and enhanced national training to equip young Bahrainis with digital, leadership and entrepreneurship skills.

Renewables

MPs encourage wider investment in renewable energy, green industry, space technology and the creative economy. They urge improvements in labour-market data, job quality and the effective use of existing government schemes. More flexible legislation, they add, would help attract investment and boost competitiveness. Stronger oversight systems are needed to monitor government performance, protect public funds, control debt and ensure fair access to services.

Values, identity  

Lawmakers welcomed the King’s call to link scientific progress with Bahrain’s values and identity. They support the creation of a national identity centre and encourage more cultural and digital content showcasing Bahraini heritage, along with school and community programmes that promote tolerance.  

On social policy, the Council stresses updating the social protection system to meet the needs of families and children while increasing opportunities for youth and women in decision-making.

Arab cause

MPs also reaffirm support for the King’s stance on Arab causes, especially Palestine, and his efforts to prioritise the issue during Bahrain’s term on the UN Security Council.  

The reply endorses measures to strengthen the readiness of the Bahrain Defence Force, the Interior Ministry and the National Guard, and supports national efforts to protect the marine environment.