Bahrain is one the most active countries in the Gulf for using social media networks, which have been embraced by residents, NGOs and public and private sector institutions, said a top official.

"Bahrain is considered an active country in the use of social media networks, especially Twitter which has 61,000 active users in Bahrain only - with an average of one tweet per month," said Jordanian government digital director Khalid Al Ahmed.

He was speaking at the Bahrain International e-Government Forum workshop entitled Social Media Hands-On.

Also speaking at the event, organised by Bahrain's Social Media Club, was United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia (UN-ESCWA) ICT Applications Section chief Dr Nibal Idlebi.

She spoke about cyber laws and opportunities for improved co-operation among the public and private sector.

"From my personal experience, I believe there is a need for a law to protect personal data like the one the UAE has started implementing," said Dr Idlebi.

Meanwhile, the Bahrain IT Expo 2012, taking place alongside the forum at the Ritz-Carlton Bahrain Hotel and Spa, will continue until tomorrow (April 11).

At the event, Saudi-based Rawabi NGNS showcased its "Maktabi" service, offering turnkey one-stop-shop solutions at a flat monthly fee for small to medium enterprises.

"This is a great opportunity to present our brand for the first time to the public, and I am personally very happy that we choose Bahrain IT Expo as kick-off day, as a unique opportunity to exhibit within one of the largest information technology expos in the kingdom," said Rawabi NGNS acting general manager Milan Jovancic. – TradeArabia News Service