Saudi, Malaysian Translation Associations Sign MoU to Promote Cultural Exchange

The MoU aims to enhance cooperation in the fields of translation and publishing, promote cultural and knowledge exchange, and support scientific and academic efforts of mutual interest. SPA
The MoU aims to enhance cooperation in the fields of translation and publishing, promote cultural and knowledge exchange, and support scientific and academic efforts of mutual interest. SPA
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Saudi, Malaysian Translation Associations Sign MoU to Promote Cultural Exchange

The MoU aims to enhance cooperation in the fields of translation and publishing, promote cultural and knowledge exchange, and support scientific and academic efforts of mutual interest. SPA
The MoU aims to enhance cooperation in the fields of translation and publishing, promote cultural and knowledge exchange, and support scientific and academic efforts of mutual interest. SPA

The Saudi Arabian Translation Association and the Malaysian Translators Association have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) at Saudi Arabia's pavilion, the guest of honor at the 2026 Kuala Lumpur International Book Fair.

The MoU aims to enhance cooperation in the fields of translation and publishing, promote cultural and knowledge exchange, and support scientific and academic efforts of mutual interest.

It also seeks to facilitate the exchange of expertise and specialized consultations, contributing to advancing the translation sector and strengthening its presence on the international cultural scene.

The memorandum represents an important step toward building sustainable professional and cultural partnerships that contribute to strengthening civilizational dialogue between Saudi Arabia and Malaysia, while opening the door to joint projects and initiatives that support translation activities and expand the exchange of literature and knowledge between the two languages.

The MoU comes as part of the cultural momentum witnessed by the Kingdom’s pavilion at the 2026 Kuala Lumpur International Book Fair, led by the Literature, Publishing and Translation Commission through a diverse cultural and knowledge-based program that highlights the growing stature of Saudi culture and its presence in international forums.

This underscores the importance of international book fairs as effective platforms for enhancing cultural cooperation and signing agreements and partnerships that contribute to expanding prospects for joint work among cultural and knowledge institutions around the world.



Misk Art Institute Launches Summer Art Exhibition in Riyadh

Riyadh is hosting the Prince Faisal bin Fahd Arts Hall Exhibition: Summer 2026, organized by the Misk Art Institute. (SPA)
Riyadh is hosting the Prince Faisal bin Fahd Arts Hall Exhibition: Summer 2026, organized by the Misk Art Institute. (SPA)
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Misk Art Institute Launches Summer Art Exhibition in Riyadh

Riyadh is hosting the Prince Faisal bin Fahd Arts Hall Exhibition: Summer 2026, organized by the Misk Art Institute. (SPA)
Riyadh is hosting the Prince Faisal bin Fahd Arts Hall Exhibition: Summer 2026, organized by the Misk Art Institute. (SPA)

Riyadh is hosting the Prince Faisal bin Fahd Arts Hall Exhibition: Summer 2026, organized by the Misk Art Institute—an affiliate of the Mohammed bin Salman Foundation (Misk)—as part of the Saudi Summer program. The exhibition welcomes visitors through August 1, The Saudi Press Agency said on Tuesday.

Featuring over 40 artworks by more than 30 Saudi and resident artists, the exhibition features visual arts, photography, video, multimedia, and installations. The works explore the intersection of creative practice with diverse fields of knowledge and forms of social engagement.

An accompanying public program of panel discussions and interactive activities complements the exhibition, offering visitors the opportunity to engage directly with participating artists and gain deeper insight into the ideas and creative processes behind their work.


Mayan Astronomer’s Name Deciphered from Ancient Ruins

Guatemala's Minister of Culture and Sports Luis Mendez speaks during a press conference on new findings in the decipherment of hieroglyphs on Maya murals at the Xultun archaeological site, at the National Palace of Culture in Guatemala City on July 13, 2026. (AFP)
Guatemala's Minister of Culture and Sports Luis Mendez speaks during a press conference on new findings in the decipherment of hieroglyphs on Maya murals at the Xultun archaeological site, at the National Palace of Culture in Guatemala City on July 13, 2026. (AFP)
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Mayan Astronomer’s Name Deciphered from Ancient Ruins

Guatemala's Minister of Culture and Sports Luis Mendez speaks during a press conference on new findings in the decipherment of hieroglyphs on Maya murals at the Xultun archaeological site, at the National Palace of Culture in Guatemala City on July 13, 2026. (AFP)
Guatemala's Minister of Culture and Sports Luis Mendez speaks during a press conference on new findings in the decipherment of hieroglyphs on Maya murals at the Xultun archaeological site, at the National Palace of Culture in Guatemala City on July 13, 2026. (AFP)

Archaeologists have transcribed mural symbols from Mayan ruins to learn the name of an astronomer and mathematician from the ancient civilization for the first time, Guatemala's Ministry of Culture said Monday.

The name "White-chested Fox" was found in drawings dating from 400 BC to 900 AD at the San Bartolo-Xultun archaeological site on the Mexican border.

Culture minister Luis Mendez told reporters researchers at Xultun unearthed a "complete mathematical and astronomical formula" authored by Sak Tahn Waax, which translates to White-chested Fox.

Mendez said it's the only work of its kind attributed to a mathematician from the Maya Classic period, considered the peak of the Mesoamerican civilization.

The discovery was "made possible by the epigraphic analysis of more than 50 mathematical and astronomical microtexts written on the wall," the ministry said in a statement.

The glyphs appeared in "a context where art was intertwined with science, mathematics, astronomy and everyday life," Mendez said.

The Maya civilization went into decline around 900 AD, until its collapse with the arrival of Spanish conquistadors at the turn of the 16th century.


Jazan Cultural House Launches Summer Ceramics Camp to Nurture Artistic Talent

Running for six weeks, the program includes specialized workshops - SPA
Running for six weeks, the program includes specialized workshops - SPA
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Jazan Cultural House Launches Summer Ceramics Camp to Nurture Artistic Talent

Running for six weeks, the program includes specialized workshops - SPA
Running for six weeks, the program includes specialized workshops - SPA

The Cultural House in Jazan Region is running a summer ceramics camp as part of its seasonal programs aimed at developing artistic skills and discovering talent through a training program that combines theoretical and practical instruction in a stimulating creative environment, SPA reported.

Running for six weeks, the program includes specialized workshops that guide participants from concept development to the creation of ceramic sculptures. It also features dedicated workshops for children with age-appropriate activities.

The camp aims to make productive use of the summer vacation by developing artistic capabilities, supporting talent, and enhancing cultural activity in the region.