Twitter reacts to Saudi comedy show addressing sectarianism

The Saudi Ramadan comedy series "Selfie" is back, and its second episode, which aired on Tuesday, has caused some controversy over sectarian jokes.

The popular Saudi Ramadan comedy series "Selfie" is back, and its second episode, which aired on Tuesday, has caused some controversy over sectarian jokes.

"#Selfie's actors and directors and channel contributed top portraying Sunnis in the worst ways. That was the episode's goal"

The episode starred comedian Nasser al-Gassabi in a sketch involving two clerics, one Sunni and one Shitte, who 20 years later find out that their sons had been switched at birth. The two clerics want their biological sons to convert to their original sect.

Some people online haven't taken the show lightly, with some calling for the show to be stopped under a hashtag that translates to #StopSelfieAsItInsultsOurReligion ( اوقفوا_سيلفي_يسيي_لديننا ). Others are tweeting their support for the show and the impact it's had in helping people face reality.

Another Twitter user talks about how admitting wrong is the first step in solving the problem. He goes on to say that the show is pushing people's buttons by revealing the ugly truth of sectarianism in this day and age. The reality of the situation is actually worse than what the show is depicting. He goes on to suggest that people should let the episode pass.

Another user is telling the world that Selfie is just a series that pushed people to face reality and expose the unfortunate myths people believe in.

Nasser tweeted a thank you from his own personal account to the fans who showed their support for the episode.

"Al hamdulliah despite everything in response to the episode that aired. I've been getting many calls from various people, and the best part is the compliments from Sunnis and Shia I've received."

The third episode, which was aired Wednesday, was also not taken very positively as it criticized the manner in which Arabs, specifically the Bedouins and the Taee tribe, spend money in a careless manner.

#TouchofHope aims to aid 20,000 refugee families during Ramadan

A campaign by the UNHCR, MBC Hope and Saudi's ARAM Production House aims to "touch the lives" of 5,000 refugee families each week during Ramadan.

A collaborative campaign between the UNHCR, MBC Hope and Saudi's ARAM Production House aims to "touch the lives" of 5,000 refugee families each week during Ramadan.

Using #TouchofHope or #BasmetAmal to raise awareness, the simple initiative is an easy online way for individuals to support families that are struggling just to survive. While millions come together with family and friends to enjoy hearty iftar meals throughout the region, many others will be worrying about what they can feed their children the next day.

"Thirty days are not enough to help every refugee family in the region struggling to cope with their daily necessities. But if we all respond together we can touch the lives of 5,000 refugee families, every week, who are counting on us for survival," the campaign's webpage says .

"Your action today will immediately empower one of these families and provide them with life-saving support including protection, food, water, shelter, education, medical care, and cash assistance."

Individuals can choose to make a one time donation or decide to contribute monthly. The website explains that as little as $1,500 – or $125 per month – can support a refugee family's essential needs for one year.

Of course, the initiative doesn't require you to give a full year of support or even a full month. Suggested donations are $100, $250 or $1,000 but contributors also have the option to input any amount they are able to give. Remember, every dollar can make a huge impact.

Numerous celebrities have already given their support to the initiative and their photos can be seen displayed on the site. So, what are you waiting for? It's time to remember the spirt of Ramadan!