KUWAIT: The Ministry of Interior announced Saturday that its security forces, under the direct supervision of First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Sheikh Fahad Yousef Saud Al-Sabah, arrested a suspect with a criminal record for manufacturing and promoting the psychotropic drug shabu in Saad Al-Abdullah. In a statement, the ministry said the suspect, whose citizenship had been recently revoked, was tracked following intensive investigations and field surveillance. Authorities discovered that he had been producing shabu using chemicals smuggled illegally into the country.

The operation led to the seizure of 30 liters of a key precursor chemical, 3 liters of shabu in the semi-final production stage, 6 kilograms of the drug ready for distribution, and large quantities of chemicals and equipment used in the manufacturing process. The seized narcotics were estimated to have a market value of KD 500,000 (about $1.64 million). Two firearms and a quantity of live ammunition were also confiscated. The suspect was referred to the competent authorities for legal action.

The Ministry of Interior reaffirmed its determination to combat drug trafficking and dismantle networks involved in the production and distribution of narcotics. It stressed that security agencies will continue to act decisively against drug dealers to safeguard society from the dangers of this destructive scourge. The ministry urged the public to cooperate with security forces and report any suspicious activity to help preserve the nation’s security and the safety of its citizens and residents.— KUNA

TUNIS: The Arab League Educational, Cultural and Scientific Organization’s (ALECSO) Director of Culture Department Humaid Al-Nofali announced that the inclusion of Kuwait Towers on the Arab Heritage List affirms their status as a distinguished architectural landmark. The towers, recognized under the modern architecture category, were selected for their prominence in contemporary Arab heritage. Al-Nofali told Kuwait News Agency (KUNA) that the decision was based on their unique engineering design, creative vision, and aesthetic appeal, qualifying them for entry into ALECSO’s “Architectural and Urban Heritage in Arab Countries” register.

He noted that the jury unanimously acknowledged the towers’ embodiment of a modern architectural approach representing a pivotal stage in the evolution of Arab architecture. The iconic structures, he added, present a rare blend of cultural identity and modernity, enhancing their value as both a cultural symbol and a tourist attraction.

Al-Nofali underscored the significance of ALECSO’s heritage register, which offers a distinct perspective compared to those maintained by international bodies such as UNESCO and ISESCO. The register focuses on the urban growth of cities, particularly ancient urban centers that have preserved their historical character. Several such cities, he said, have been listed after meeting the organization’s criteria.

The initiative, he stressed, aims to safeguard Arab architectural and urban heritage amid challenges posed by exceptional circumstances, natural disasters, and human-made threats. Beyond preservation, the register seeks to raise public awareness of this heritage’s importance and integrate it into sectors such as tourism, the economy, and traditional crafts, thereby supporting sustainable development. — KUNA

KUWAIT: The “CAN 2025” Olympics, a month-and-a-half-long youth sports event, concluded with a powerful message on the role of sports and physical therapy in disease prevention and recovery, especially cancer. Organized by the National Cancer Awareness Campaign (CAN), the event combined athletic competition with health awareness, drawing large crowds and active engagement from diverse groups.

Dr Khaled Ahmed Al-Saleh, oncology consultant and chairman of CAN, highlighted the importance of using youth gatherings for spreading health messages. This year’s Olympics focused on how sports help prevent diseases and support rehabilitation.

Among the event’s highlights was a lecture by senior physical therapist Dr Hamad Al-Kandari on the importance of physical therapy for athletes and patients alike. Dr Al-Saleh emphasized physical rehabilitation as a vital part of cancer recovery.

Citing the World Health Organization (WHO), Dr Al-Saleh explained that rehabilitation—including physical therapy—contributes to reducing the functional impact of chronic diseases, such as cancer, and enhances the patient’s ability to regain mobility and independence in daily life. He also pointed out that more than 2.4 billion people worldwide need some form of rehabilitation services, emphasizing the importance of integrating sports and physical therapy into prevention and recovery programs.

Abdallah Al-Saleh

Dr Iman Al-Shimmari

The campaign pointed to global data showing that 60 to 90 percent of cancer patients suffer from physical and psychological side effects that rehabilitation can improve. Studies also show that about 43 percent of patients need physical therapy services. However, nearly 40 percent of those needing physical therapy do not receive it, highlighting a clear gap in rehabilitation care.

The closing ceremony celebrated winners, distinguished participants, volunteers, sponsors, and media partners who helped spread the campaign’s message. Dr Iman Al-Shammari, campaign secretary, praised the organizing Haido-CAN team, led by Abdullah Khalid Al-Saleh, director of the2025 Haido-CAN Olympics. She encouraged everyone to adopt regular sports practice to maintain a healthy body.

Director Abdullah Khalid Al-Saleh expressed gratitude to participants and supporters, emphasizing the event’s innovative approach to combining sports with awareness. He added that such initiatives open doors of hope for patients and survivors and promote a culture of prevention in Kuwaiti society.

The Australian team won first place, followed by the Greek team in second place. The Japanese team won third place. Captain Saad Al-Houti’s presence and interaction with players provided added inspiration, with many athletes regarding him as a sports role model.