In a wonderfully civilised gesture, which reflects the values of respect and social responsibility, fans of Bahrain’s national team cleaned the stands after the end of the game with Yemen in the ongoing Gulf Cup in Kuwait.
This initiative showed the awareness of the Bahraini people and the understanding of their role in preserving the environment and public facilities.
This step embodies a positive model to be emulated in sports stadia, as cheering extends beyond the game, to become a civilised behaviour that contributes to enhancing the spirit of co-operation and responsibility.
The initiative reflected authentic Bahraini values, which are based on respect and appreciation, and it also contributes to presenting a bright image of Bahraini sports on the regional and international scene. It also enhance the importance of sports as a means of building communities and spreading positive values.
I have often highlighted the virtues of imitating commendable practices. For instance, the Japanese fans are known for their commitment to the rules of ethical behaviour and social values; they clean a stadium after every match.
The video clip of Bahrainis doing the same went viral on social media; I am certain that it was well received and appreciated by everyone all over the world.
Sometimes the impact of good and positive practices or behaviour that are done spontaneously and automatically is greater and directly influential and has a great positive echo on the state, instead of many advertising campaigns that cost exorbitant amounts and have no added value.
Some uncivilised behaviour was displayed by some players, administrators and fans, which negatively affected the reputation of the Gulf Cup tournament. Such tournaments draw a large audience, so it is important to exploit them in the media to give the world an honourable and bright image of the people of the Gulf countries.
Zuhair A Tawfiqi
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