Prime Minister Robert Abela Visits Bajada Lyons Group

The practical use of new technology in everyday life should empower the Maltese people, rather than instil fear, according to Prime Minister Robert Abela. Local enterprises and their innovations, he said, can play a pivotal role in achieving this aim.

The Prime Minister made these remarks during a visit to the Bajada Lyons Group, where he met with employees, including engineers and technology experts, who showcased the latest technologies being developed within the group.

The visit coincided with the Budget 2026 announcement of the “AI for All” initiative, which allocates €100 million to ensure that Malta, its local companies, and the general public are prepared for rapid advances in artificial intelligence. On Thursday, a dedicated Cabinet meeting also launched a national consultation on an updated national AI strategy.

During the visit, Dr Abela emphasised that technological tools should be accessible to everyone. “Whoever you are, regardless of your income or age, you should benefit from technology such as AI, which is not only an important economic niche for our country but also a powerful tool across different aspects of life,” he said.

The Bajada Lyons Group, based in the Bulebel Industrial Estate, has over 35 years of experience in photovoltaics and employs more than 200 people. In recent years, the group has expanded into new energy services, as well as the hospitality and elderly care sectors. It has also prioritised digitalisation, investing in and incubating innovative start-ups.

Among the technologies showcased were robotic attachments developed by Kingswell Innovation, a start-up creating robotics for real-world applications, including prosthetics. Another start-up, Digital Brian, presented AI-driven prototypes ranging from patient-monitoring systems and health and safety verification tools to sector-specific chatbots and transport efficiency applications.

Mark Bajada, founder of the Bajada Lyons Group, highlighted the group’s adaptive approach to new challenges. “We are fostering an ecosystem that combines traditional business operations with transformative technologies. We believe that Malta can become a major competitor in intelligent automation solutions and AI-driven enterprises,” he said.

The Prime Minister was accompanied by Home Affairs, Security and Labour Minister Byron Camilleri and Government MP Cressida Galea.

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