Why reading challenge is so significant

Readers praise UAE's effort to inculcate a habit of reading among youth. Other topics: study in perception, UAE economy, fireman Ibrahim Al Balooshi

This country's efforts to encourage children and youth to read are an example for others to follow (Arab reading challenge – a novel way to encourage children to explore Arabic literature, January 14). Last month, Sheikh Khalifa, President of the UAE, declared this year the "year of reading". It followed the September launch, by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, of the Arab Reading Challenge, which runs until April.

Inculcating a reading habit among youth is perhaps the best way to keep them away from wasteful activities.

Amit Jain, India

While I applaud this initiative, it is disappointing to see the reading culture diminish. It’s not just books, but people do not have time to read even their emails.

It’s true that our life is increasingly becoming hectic, but we should try to find some time to read – for our own benefit.

Mathew Litty, Dubai

UAE is on a strong footing

It's not unusual for governments to reassess their fiscal policies in light of falling revenues (VAT will raise prices 3 to 5 per cent, January 14).

Oil prices have crashed to a 12-year low with no increase on the horizon. Some analysts have predicted an average of $40 (Dh147) in the second half of this year, while some bankers have forecast $20.

What is apparent is that with an oversupplied market, a strong dollar and a weakening Chinese economy, oil prices will continue to be suppressed. However, I believe that the UAE has done an excellent job in diversifying its economy away from hydrocarbons.

The renewable-energy market that is set to take off would reduce the country’s reliance on fossil fuels and create a new economic sector generating thousands of jobs.

Randall Mohammed, Dubai

Best wishes for Al Balooshi

It's sad to hear about Hasan Ibrahim Al Balooshi's condition (Firefighter who helped tackle The Address hotel blaze is in critical condition, January 14). However, having had acute respiratory distress syndrome and been in a coma myself, I know that full recovery is possible.

The doctors in Dubai saved my life and I’m sure they will save this brave guy too.

Steve Bradford, New Zealand

A useful study on perception

I was fascinated by the diversity of opinion (Religious words must adapt, January 14). I would not expect such massive swings in perceptions from one place to another or such an enormous difference of viewpoint on issues such as the religion's compatibility with the modern world.

It’s definitely worth reading deeper into the study for perceptions of some of the underlying reasons, but clearly it’s a worthwhile survey.

John Francis, US

In 2016, the youth throughout the Middle East think that religion has an important role to play in the future of their country. States will have to maintain vigil to prevent any misinterpretation of religion.

Thomas Mnt, Dubai

Message of cartoon unclear

Shadi Ghanim’s cartoon on US-Iran relations in light of the arrest of 10 American sailors (January 14) was confusing. Is it supposed to be finger pointing? Because there wasn’t much of that going on as the US admitted its mistake immediately. Or does it imply that something else is going on, and if so, what?

Name withheld by request