Muscat: Oman’s Ministry of Commerce and Industry recently patented a device that uses water molecules to produce energy, providing a low-cost and accessible source of renewable energy.
Duha bin Jamal Al Barwani, patent holder of the new invention, said, “The device was invented to provide an economical and clean method of producing energy using common resources.”
“I learnt to register patents with the ministry through social media. But I did not have enough information about the various procedures, so I went directly to the authorities and learnt a lot about the importance of protecting my ideas,” he said, adding that patenting an invention or new product protected the economic interests of its owners in the market, helping guarantee a larger return on investment.
Beyond financial success, however, Al Barwani’s main motivation was his desire to contribute to Oman’s growth and development. “I was obsessed with the idea of being a partner in contributing to the growth of the Sultanate’s economy,” he said.
The Ministry of Commerce and Industry is continuing its efforts to boost Oman’s strong business environment by helping entrepreneurs and inventors maximise the benefits they receive for their products and inventions.
As part of this effort, it disseminates information about intellectual property rights (IPR)_by organising lectures and workshops. It also encourages scientific and research institutions to submit innovative ideas and projects and facilitate the transfer of technology to the industry.