€700,000 Support for Cultural Festivals and Heritage

Feb 20 2024

In a move to bolster the vibrant cultural landscape of Malta and Gozo, the Minister for National Heritage, Arts, and Local Government, Owen Bonnici, unveiled the Artistic Heritage Scheme, injecting €700,000 into vital sectors of Maltese festivals. This significant funding marks a 45% increase in investment compared to previous years, demonstrating the government’s commitment to nurturing and sustaining the rich tapestry of local festivities.

The scheme, administered by the Maltese Council for the Arts, targets three key pillars of Maltese festivals: band associations, firehouses, and scaffolding associations. Minister Bonnici emphasized that the initiative aims to fortify these integral components of Maltese identity, ensuring their continued growth and contribution to the cultural heritage cherished by both residents and visitors alike.

Highlighting the UNESCO recognition of Maltese festivals as intangible world heritage, Minister Bonnici stressed the added responsibility to safeguard and promote this invaluable heritage. The Artistic Heritage Scheme thus serves as a crucial mechanism to support and advance the unique Maltese festival tradition, rooted in centuries-old customs and practices.

Mary Ann Cauchi, Director for Funds and Strategy at the Maltese Council for the Arts, outlined the 2025 Strategy’s focus on empowering artists and professionals across all sectors, including traditional and local environments. The scheme reflects a commitment to enriching Malta’s social and cultural fabric while fostering community engagement and preserving local identities.

Rita Falzon, Head of Funding at the Maltese Council for the Arts, underscored the scheme’s role in promoting artistic diversity and professionalism within the sector. By providing financial incentives and support, the scheme encourages innovation and collaboration, driving the evolution of Maltese cultural expression.

Under the Artistic Heritage Scheme, eligible projects can receive up to 100% funding, with band clubs eligible for a maximum of €8,000 per project and firehouses and scaffolding associations able to request up to €5,000 in funds. Eligible projects encompass a wide range of activities, including music training, restoration, safety equipment procurement, and socio-cultural initiatives, reflecting the diverse facets of Maltese festival culture.

The scheme will open twice in 2024, with deadlines on April 2nd and October 8th, providing ample opportunities for stakeholders to access vital funding support for their projects. Minister Bonnici urged festival organizers and cultural stakeholders to seize this opportunity to contribute to the preservation and evolution of Malta’s rich cultural heritage.

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X Factor Malta Winner Richard Meets Local Hero Jake at Mater Dei

Feb 20 2024

In a heartwarming encounter at Mater Dei Hospital, X Factor Malta winner Richard met with local hero and inspirational young figure, Jake Vella.

The meeting, shared in a recent social media post, showcased the beautiful moment between the two, emphasising the mutual respect and admiration. Richard expressed his gratitude and admiration for Jake, stating, “It was a true pleasure meeting you, Jake. Your kindness and courage make you a hero. Thank you for the inspiration and the wonderful encounter.”

Accompanying the heartfelt message was a picture of Richard and Jake, both wearing bright smiles and holding the coveted X Factor trophy, symbolising a moment of triumph and unity.

Jake, a 14-year-old boy, is battling a rare and challenging condition known as Rapid-onset Obesity with Hypothalamic Dysfunction, Hypoventilation, and Autonomic Dysregulation (ROHHAD). This condition leads to rapid weight gain despite Jake’s efforts to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Through incredible feats of will, strength and motivation, Jake’s journey and relentless spirit have made him an inspirational figure within the community, touching the hearts of many, including Richard’s.

#MaltaDaily

Three-Year-Old Gaza Survivor To Receive Life-Saving Treatment in Malta

SHORTS: Three-Year-Old Gaza Survivor Receives Life-Saving Treatment in Malta

Feb 20 2024

Three-year-old Selah, a survivor of the recent Israeli airstrike in Gaza, will be arriving in Malta today.

Tragically, the airstrike claimed the lives of her mother and brother, leaving Selah with severe injuries.

Her heartwarming reunion with her father, facilitated by social media, was a beacon of hope amidst the tragedy.

The dire state of healthcare in Gaza was underscored by the World Health Organization’s report that only 11 out of 36 hospitals in the region are functioning, with a drastic reduction in hospital bed capacity.

The journey to Malta was made possible through the generosity of donors and the collaborative efforts of the Palestinian Embassy in Malta and the Maltese government.

Those wishing to assist in bringing more injured Gazan children to Malta for medical treatment or to donate essential aid to Gaza are encouraged to contact the embassy at 27801200 or contribute via Revolut at 99619998 or BOV Mobile pay 99922000.

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Van Owner Issues Public Appeal After Brutal Hit & Run

Feb 20 2024

In a heartfelt plea to the Maltese community, a van driver has reached out through the popular Facebook group ‘Are You Being Served? (Malta & Gozo) Original,’ seeking assistance in gathering information about a hit-and-run incident that left his vehicle damaged.

The incident involved a blue BMW car colliding with his Ford van before the driver of the BMW reportedly fled the scene. The van owner has reported the incident to the authorities, and a police investigation is actively in progress. Online commenters have since expressed their baffled sentiments as to how the BMW managed to drive off.

The van driver is appealing to anyone who may have witnessed the incident or has any relevant information that could aid the ongoing investigation to step forward. He urges those in the know to contact the Mosta Police department, emphasising the importance of collective effort in addressing such unjust occurrences.

As the investigation continues, the van owner holds onto hope that the public’s assistance will lead to a resolution.

#MaltaDaily