Conference On Media Literacy, Fake News & Public Awareness

Feb 24 2025

A specialised conference at the Maritime Museum brought together media professionals, academics, journalists, local broadcasters, influencers, and media studies lecturers to discuss the role of media in promoting accurate and reliable information.

Participants explored ways to make media more accessible, informative, and beneficial to society.

Minister for National Heritage, the Arts, and Local Government Owen Bonnici addressed the conference, stressing the dangers of fake news. “Disinformation threatens democracy, influences public opinion, and weakens trust in science and institutions.

Enhancing media literacy, particularly among young people, is essential in combating misinformation. Through collective efforts, we can build a society resilient to deception and false narratives,” he stated.

Charles Cassar, Chairperson of the Media Literacy Development Board, outlined future initiatives, including educational materials for schools and training sessions for educators and senior citizens.

The conference featured two sessions: an expert panel discussing fake news and its impact, followed by interactive workshops where participants proposed practical solutions to strengthen media literacy within communities.

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Scheme To Support Renewable Energy Projects By Households

Feb 24 2025

The government has announced an investment of over €10 million in renewable energy grants to assist households in adopting sustainable energy solutions. Minister for Energy Miriam Dalli highlighted that this initiative underscores the government’s dedication to environmental protection and community resilience.

“We are committed to making renewable energy more accessible to households through incentives that empower families to take part in Malta’s clean energy transition,” stated Minister Dalli.

PV with standard inverter – 50% of eligible costs, up to €2,500 per system (€625/kWp)

PV with hybrid inverter – 50% of eligible costs, up to €3,000 per system (€750/kWp)

Hybrid inverter + battery storage – 80% of battery costs, up to €7,200 (€720/kWh) + 80% of inverter costs, up to €1,800 (€450/kWp)

Battery storage – 80% of battery costs, up to €7,200 (€720/kWh)

The 2025 Renewable Energy Systems Household Grants Scheme, managed by the Regulator for Energy and Water Services (REWS), aims to facilitate the installation of photovoltaic (PV) systems and battery storage solutions. Notable benefits include a guaranteed feed-in tariff of €0.105 per unit for 20 years and an improved application process with instant approval for Part A applications.

The scheme provides various grant categories based on system type, with Gozo households receiving additional support—covering up to 95% of costs, capped at €8,550 for battery storage installations. “Gozo is already benefiting significantly from solar energy, with clean energy powering the island at times. By increasing battery storage in homes, we can further strengthen this progress,” said Minister Dalli.

REWS CEO Ing. Marjohn Abela noted that the 2024 scheme played a crucial role in expanding Malta’s renewable energy sector, with over 2,500 applications leading to widespread PV and battery storage installations. He emphasised that the 2025 grants, backed by €10.3 million in funding, will further support homeowners in switching to cleaner energy.

Additionally, a second scheme is being reintroduced, offering a €0.15 per kWh feed-in tariff for PV systems under 40kWp for 20 years. Unlike the primary scheme, this does not include a grant but features an expedited approval process for applicants. This initiative is open to households, businesses, and community organisations.

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43.5% Of Maltese Rarely Trust Others, Study Finds

Feb 24 2025

MEP Thomas Bajada unveiled the results of a comprehensive study entitled ‘The Economy of Wellbeing – Bridging the Gap’, which showed that 43.5% of Maltese rarely trust other people.

The study, led by MISCO, involved 430 persons from diverse sectors and demographics in Malta.

It was found that 30.8% of Maltese reported trusting most people, while 43.5% rarely trust others.

25.7% said they cannot fully trust anyone.

Meanwhile, 95.3% trusted family the most, followed by trust in friends at 3.2%. Acquaintances placed in 0.8% and work colleagues at 0.7%

Do you trust other people?

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Ħaż-Żabbar Local Council Launches Żabbar Carnival

Feb 24 2025

On Monday, March 3, the Żabbar Carnival will take over the town’s main street, promising a lively and colourful celebration. Organised by the Ħaż-Żabbar Local Council in partnership with the Local Government Division, the event was officially announced by Parliamentary Secretary for Local Government Alison Zerafa Civelli, alongside Ħaż-Żabbar Mayor Jorge Grech, Director General of the Local Government Division Emile Vassallo, and Councilor Charles Scicluna, who oversees cultural initiatives within the Local Council.

The Carnival will showcase an array of entertainment, including dance troupes, musicians, performers, elaborate floats, and oversized carnival masks. This initiative is supported by the Cultural Activities Fund, introduced by the Local Government Division, which has provided resources to 42 local councils to organise their own Carnival events.

Parliamentary Secretary Alison Zerafa Civelli emphasised that these funding schemes play a crucial role in encouraging local councils to host cultural and seasonal activities. She highlighted that the initiative is designed to make events accessible to all, including individuals with mobility challenges, ensuring that everyone can take part in the festivities within their local community.

“The government remains committed to improving the quality of life for all citizens, and cultural celebrations like Carnival contribute significantly to this goal. Culture is a fundamental part of Maltese society, and Carnival holds a special place in our national heritage. After listening to the needs of local councils, we introduced a dedicated scheme to support Carnival events. The response has been overwhelmingly positive, with 42 councils benefiting from this initiative,” stated the Parliamentary Secretary.

Mayor Jorge Grech expressed his appreciation for the scheme, noting that it has provided local councils with the opportunity to organise a diverse range of cultural events, enriching community life.

Director General Emile Vassallo encouraged more local councils to take advantage of such initiatives, ensuring that both Maltese and Gozitan communities can continue to enjoy cultural festivities throughout the year.