Ad Free Facebook & Instagram For Europeans – With A Charge

Oct 4 2023

Meta is considering offering European users a subscription-based version of Instagram and Facebook, allowing them to opt out of ad tracking, according to a source.

This move is in response to the increasing EU regulations aimed at limiting the influence of major US tech companies.

Meta, founded by Mark Zuckerberg, generates its profits by providing advertisers with highly personalised user data.

However, recent EU regulations and court decisions have made this practice more challenging. The proposal has been presented to EU regulators, exemplifying how tech giants are adjusting their longstanding practices to align with forthcoming EU guidelines.

Under this potential subscription model, European users could pay €10 per month for a desktop version of Instagram or Facebook, or €13 per month for Instagram on mobile devices.

This approach represents a significant departure from the advertising-based model that fuelled the social media industry’s rapid growth over the past decade.

The proposal aims to address various regulations, including the Digital Markets Act, which outlines specific requirements for big tech companies in Europe, including restrictions on tracking users across other sites without clear consent.

Additionally, this move aligns with a recommendation from the EU’s highest court, which stated that Meta platform users who choose not to be tracked should have access to an ad-free alternative “for an appropriate fee.”

Meta, while not directly commenting on the Wall Street Journal report, emphasised its belief in the value of free services supported by personalised ads. The company reported second-quarter revenues of $32 billion, with $31.5 billion attributed to advertising, including $7.2 billion from Europe.

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Josette Camilleri Opens Up About Losing Husband To Suicide

Oct 4 2023

In an interview on local programme AWLA, Josette Camilleri opened up about losing her husband to suicide exactly one year ago.

Her husband took his own life at the age of 56 after having experienced a vehicle accident. Josette expressed how unexpected it was, given that their family life was very happy.

Talking about the stigma surrounding the topic of suicide, she urged those who might be experiencing something similar to speak up – if not with loved ones then with professionals who can help.

Society has created a massive stigma around suicide, she said, with people making assumptions about a person’s inner life and their family life.

She also issued a call for further awareness about the topic so that people who suffer in silence can speak up and get the help they need.

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Turning Malta’s Zebra Crossings Pink for Pink October-Movember Awareness

Oct 4 2023

The start of October has brought a vibrant and meaningful transformation to some of Malta’s zebra crossings as they turned pink to support the nationwide campaign, Pink October-Movember. This eye-catching initiative aims to raise awareness about the most common cancers affecting both women and men.

The “Zebras Go Pink” campaign kicked off with a symbolic walk on a freshly painted pink and white zebra crossing in St. Rita’s Street, Rabat. Leading the way were Chair and Campaign Leader Michelle Muscat, Transport Malta Representative Mr. Michael Cohen, and Mayor of Rabat Mr. Sandro Craus.

Michelle Muscat, in a statement, emphasized the significance of this educational campaign. Its primary goal is to educate the public on the importance of self-checks, the proper methods for conducting self-examinations, and the necessity of undergoing screenings and tests. Often, fear becomes a barrier preventing individuals from seeking timely diagnosis and treatment.

This year, Pink October-Movember ’23 is shining a spotlight on three common female cancers: breast, ovarian, and cervical cancer, as well as two prevalent male cancers: testicular and prostate cancer. The campaign aims to empower individuals with knowledge and encourage them to take proactive steps towards their health.

If you want to support Pink October-Movember ’23, there are various ways to get involved. You can visit the Pink Oct Mov Facebook page or Instagram or explore their website at https://pinkoctobermovember.mt to learn more about the events happening throughout the month or make a donation through the following channels:

SMS Donations: Send “50619238” to donate €11.65.
CALL Donations: Dial “51702052” to donate €15 or “51802053” to donate €25.
MOBILE PAY: Use the number “99912373” for donations up to €500.

By supporting Pink October-Movember ’23, you contribute to a noble cause that raises awareness, encourages early detection, and provides vital support to those affected by cancer in Malta. Let’s paint the town pink in solidarity with this essential campaign.

#MaltaDaily

Maltese In The Netherlands Meet Up For Kinnie, Pastizzi & Music

Maltese In Amsterdam Meet Up For Kinnie, Pastizzi & Music

Oct 4 2023

Maltese folk from many different cities in the Netherlands met up to share a couple of pastizzi, glasses of Kinnie as well as some music together for a National Day reception.

The community came together to relish in some of their roots, with music by Kurt and Daniel setting the atmosphere.

This initiative took place at the Maltese Embassy in the Netherlands located in The Hague and saw many of Maltese roots contributing something to make the get-together feel all the more like home.

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