ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) took an important step toward fostering safe and responsible internet usage by holding a meeting with prominent religious scholars at PTA Headquarters, Islamabad, on Tuesday.
The meeting marked a collaborative effort between the PTA and religious scholars to address the challenges of the internet and social media while promoting a digital environment that aligns with cultural and religious values.
The meeting was attended by religious scholars from various schools of thought, including Dr. Qibla Ayaz, Chairman of the Council of Islamic Ideology; Moulana Abdul Khabeer Azad, Chairman of Ruet-e-Hilal Committee and Maulana Tariq Jameel among others. Key PTA officers were also present at this occasion.
The meeting commenced with a welcome note from the Director-General of the Web Analysis Division PTA, who provided an overview of the PTA’s initiatives.
— PTA (@PTAofficialpk) October 10, 2023
اخلاقی و مذہبی اقدار کے پیش نظر ڈیجیٹل دنیا کی تشکیل🌐
معروف اسلامی اسکالر مولانا طارق جمیل @TariqJamilOFCL کا انٹرنیٹ کے ذمہ دارانہ استعمال پر پیغام ملاحظہ فرمائیں. انٹرنیٹ/سوشل میڈیا کو سب کے لیے محفوظ بنانے میں پی ٹی اے کا ساتھ دیں!#DigitalResponsibility #CyberAware… pic.twitter.com/csgxKJatM5
— PTA (@PTAofficialpk) October 10, 2023
رویت ہلال کمیٹی کے چیئرمین مولانا عبدالخبیر آزاد کے انٹرنیٹ کے ذمہ دارانہ استعمال سے متعلق خیالات جانیں اور ایک باوقار آن لائن معاشرے کی تشکیل میں ہمارے ساتھ متحد ہوں !#DigitalResponsibility #CyberAware #onlinesafety @MORAisbOfficial pic.twitter.com/E2uqGK0yvZ
— PTA (@PTAofficialpk) October 10, 2023
Chairman PTA Highlights Scholars’ Role
Chairman PTA, Maj General (R) Hafeez Ur Rehman, addressed the audience and underscored the pivotal role of religious leaders in guiding the masses toward ethical and responsible internet usage.
He emphasized the potential for an even greater impact if the religious scholars lend their support to PTA through their own platforms.
An open-floor discussion and recommendation session provided a platform for dialogue and active engagement. Key highlights of the gathering included a strong emphasis on educating the youth about responsible internet and social media usage, especially the important role of parents in educating their children.
The Quran and teachings of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (SAW) were underlined as a guiding light in this endeavor.
Recognizing the gravity of online crimes such as blasphemous and hate speech and anti-state propaganda, it was emphasized that addressing them is the collective responsibility of the state, PTA, PEMRA, judiciary, FIA, and the individuals.
The scholars appreciated the PTA’s commitment and efforts in promoting safe and responsible internet usage and reassured their full support and cooperation with the regulator.
