Makkah Governor Prince Abdul Majeed has expressed deep concern about what has been published recently regarding the unacceptable behavior of some Saudi youth. They wander aimlessly through shopping centers, harassing women and girls who are there, stalk them and even follow their cars. This regrettable phenomenon, the prince said, would now be the subject of his direct personal attention and that people would soon notice that efforts were being made to solve this unfortunate problem.
This quick response plus the determination to take necessary measures have long been characteristic of Prince Abdul Majeed. The prince does not hesitate in carrying out his duties nor does he wait for directions to carry out his responsibilities. What is required is that officials subordinate to him in every sector follow his example. Let them be eager to listen to people — young as well as old — and to look carefully at requests for reform wherever they come from. Let them perform their duties for the sake of God and the service of the people, aiming always to provide security, comfort and rights.
Prince Abdul Majeed rightly feels unhappy when an incorrect news story or report is published. He is even more annoyed when it becomes clear that the fault lies with a journalist who has not checked his facts and verified them. Failure to do so often causes public distress and needless worry.
It is right to say that the measures taken by the governorate to eliminate the problem of young men loitering in shopping centers and harassing women and girls were completely necessary. Parents whose offspring are young men with money and cars must fear God, monitor the conduct of their children and remind them of their moral duty toward society and all its members.
Shopping centers must have the maximum possible security surveillance. This includes employing guards who are prepared to protect shoppers and maintain public order in coordination with the police as well as the Committee for the Promotion of Virtue and the Prevention of Vice. Those visiting the centers, both men and women, must support the security personnel and the employees of the centers in combating these deplorable practices. It is the duty of the public to take action against those who are guilty by reporting them, reproaching them and rejecting their behavior.
