The Saudi journalist and writer, Mohammad bin Abdul Latif Al Sheikh, passed away on Tuesday after previously suffering from illness. Throughout his journalistic career, the late writer was known for his serious research, diverse readings, and distinctive pen in documenting the state of enlightenment, alongside defending his country and combating extremist ideologies.
The head of the Entertainment Authority, advisor Turki Al Sheikh, mourned the Saudi writer on his account on the "X" platform, noting that he had always used his writing to defend his country's issues. He previously stated, "Since I started writing my column in Al-Jazirah newspaper, nearly twenty years ago, I was certain from the beginning that this darkness must have an end."
Many intellectuals and journalists also expressed their condolences following his passing. Saudi journalist Othman Al-Omair wrote on "X": "He was a star of creativity and giving, a patriot, and a societal reformer. How mournful it is when sorrow crushes the heart. We lost you, O noble one, you handsome believer in the future."
Colleague from Al Arabiya, Mishari Al-Dhaydi, wrote an article about the deceased in Asharq Al-Awsat, describing him as "the knight," stating: "Saudi writer Mohammad bin Abdul Latif Al Sheikh is a prominent figure in the struggle for enlightenment in the journey of Saudi journalism over the past two decades and more."
He transitioned from the world of business and commerce to journalism and writing, becoming a pioneer publisher in literature, especially in popular literature, while presiding over the board of directors of the magazine "Qutoof," which was edited by poet Fahd Afif, and the magazine "Hayat Al-Nas." The two magazines had significant impact at the time.
Al-Dhaydi also pointed out that "Abu Abdul Latif," as his loved ones call him, had a refined poetic taste and made personal contributions in the field of poetry, including songs performed by major stars such as artist Abdul Majid Abdullah. At one point, he revealed his pseudonym on Twitter, which was "Al-Aaber."
It is noteworthy that the writer Mohammad bin Abdul Latif Al Sheikh was a prominent figure in the struggle for enlightenment in the journey of Saudi journalism over the past two decades and beyond, emerging from a background in business to become a significant figure in literature and journalistic publishing.
