Muscat – In a major boost to community-driven humanitarian efforts, the 13th edition of Fak Kurbah this year secured the release of 1,519 financially distressed inmates, underlining Oman’s commitment to giving individuals a second chance.

The latest achievement takes the total number of beneficiaries since the initiative’s launch in 2012 to 9,717, marking one of the most impactful community-driven efforts in the sultanate. The figures were announced at a press conference held by Omani Lawyers Association on Tuesday to mark the conclusion of this year’s campaign.

Officials highlighted the fact that Fak Kurbah continues to play a crucial role in restoring hope to financially distressed individuals and reuniting families by settling debts in accordance with clear legal frameworks and strict eligibility criteria.

Based on final statistics, Muscat governorate recorded the highest number of beneficiaries with 567 cases, followed by North Batinah with 338. South Batinah accounted for 142 cases, South Sharqiyah 115, Dhofar 108, Dakhliyah 85, Buraimi 67, Dhahirah 66, North Sharqiyah 25 and Al Wusta recorded six cases.

Dr Hamad bin Hamdan Al Rubai, Chairman of Omani Lawyers Association, said Fak Kurbah’s continued success reflects the deeply rooted values of compassion and cohesion within Omani society. “This achievement is the result of collective efforts by individuals and institutions who believe in offering those in financial distress a second chance to rebuild their lives and restore family stability,” he said.

He acknowledged the challenges posed by rising case numbers and limited resources, noting that sustained community and legal sector support has enabled the initiative to overcome these obstacles. Rubai added that efforts are under way to transform Fak Kurbah into a sustainable model that promotes social justice across all governorates.

Dr Mohammed bin Ibrahim Al Zadjali, general supervisor of Fak Kurbah, said the programme has maintained its humanitarian mission for over 15 years, easing the burden on hundreds of families through strong partnerships and broad public support. He informed that RO1mn was raised this year – the highest amount recorded – underscoring Fak Kurbah growing reach and credibility.

“This reflects a unified sense of purpose and a strong commitment from all stakeholders,” he said.

Addressing sustainability, Khalifa bin Marhoon Al Rahbi, vice-chairman of the board, said the association is working to establish an independent executive structure to ensure efficiency and continuity in its operations. He stressed that community contributions remain central to sustaining such initiatives, expressing confidence in the increasing public engagement year after year.

He also informed that an agreement has been signed with Bausher Endowment Fund to develop a commercial project on a designated plot of land, which will be registered in Fak Kurbah’s name. The project is expected to generate stable income to support its activities throughout the year.

“This is the first step towards long-term financial sustainability, and efforts are ongoing to secure consistent funding that will enable us to expand our humanitarian and social impact,” he said.

The association reiterated that Fak Kurbah operates under clear legal and administrative mechanisms, in coordination with relevant judicial authorities. It targets inmates involved in civil, commercial, labour and Sharia-related cases, with priority given to humanitarian situations and small claims, while ensuring transparency, fairness and effective governance.

Continuing under its enduring slogan, ‘A person deserves a second chance’, Fak Kurbah is a powerful example of community solidarity, reinforcing its role in strengthening family cohesion and social stability across the sultanate, the association stated.