Muscat – In a move aimed at strengthening national resilience and empowering communities with greater awareness of potential threats, a community version of the National Risk Register (NRR) was launched on Monday.

The initiative seeks to familiarise citizens and residents with the various risks that could impact the sultanate – from natural hazards and health emergencies to technological and environmental challenges – and outline the collective role of government and society in mitigating these.

The launch ceremony, held un- der the patronage of H E Dr Hilal bin Ali al Sabti, Minister of Heal-th, took place at the Royal Acade-my of Management in Muscat.

In his address, H E Mohammed bin Said al Balushi, Undersecretary in the Ministry of Information and Head of the Media Department of NRR, said risk management has become an essential pillar of sustainable development and national security.

“Risk management today is not a complementary option but a strategic approach adopted by nations and institutions to enhance their preparedness for evolving challenges,” he said. “An integrated system contributes to greater institutional efficiency, reduces the impact of crises, and boosts confidence in a country’s ability to adapt and recover.”

H E Balushi added that Oman has embraced the concept of risk management since the 1970s, incorporating it into its national development strategies. With economic diversification, global integration, and the rise of complex challenges such as climate change and cybersecurity threats, the sultanate has intensified efforts to institutionalise risk management across sectors.

Developed through a scientific and strategic framework, the NRR serves as a key national tool for identifying and analysing potential risks and ensuring readiness across institutions. The register also aims to promote public awareness, encouraging every individual to play an active role in maintaining national safety and stability.

Coinciding with the International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction, observed globally on October 13, the launch marked a new milestone in Oman’s ongoing commitment to proactive planning and community engagement.

H E Balushi noted that the community version of the register will provide accessible information to the public, enhancing understanding of potential risks and promoting a culture of prevention. The initiative, he said, is closely aligned with the objectives of Vision 2040, which emphasises sustainable development, effective governance and social resilience.

“Oman views society as the first line of defence,” he stressed, adding that “this initiative reflects our collective responsibility in protecting the nation’s achievements and preparing for future challenges.”

Concluding his remarks, H E Balushi said, “The launch of this community version embodies Oman’s forward-looking vision – to build a safer, more resilient and better-prepared society.”