“Emphasizing Manufacturing Diversification and Career Opportunities”

Feb 19 2024

In a testament to Malta’s growing manufacturing sector, Prime Minister Robert Abela paid a visit to Trelleborg Sealing Solutions in the industrial area of Ħal Far. The visit underscored the dynamic nature of the manufacturing field, which is diversifying into innovative areas such as robotics and specialized engineering, offering promising career opportunities for the country’s youth.

During his visit, Prime Minister Abela highlighted the significant role of manufacturing in Malta’s economy, recognising the thousands of Maltese and Gozitan workers employed in this sector. He emphasised the government’s support for manufacturing through initiatives aimed at fostering innovation and environmental sustainability, which are essential for attracting foreign direct investment and driving economic growth.

Trelleborg Sealing Solutions, with over 60 years of history in Malta, is a prime example of manufacturing excellence and investment in sustainability. The company is investing €14 million over the next two years to enhance its operations, particularly in the areas of biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, semiconductors, and sustainable machinery. This expansion, supported by Malta Enterprise and INDIS Malta, includes the construction of additional production space totaling 6,000 square meters.

Prime Minister Abela toured the site of Trelleborg’s expansion, commending the creation of quality careers aligned with the country’s priorities. He emphasised the importance of economic opportunities that also promote environmental responsibility, paving the way for a better quality of life for Maltese citizens.

Engaging with workers during his visit, Prime Minister Abela noted the career advancement opportunities within Trelleborg. One such example is Ryan Carabott, a 27-year-old who started as an apprentice and now leads a team of individuals. Engineer Neal Borg’s journey from an entry-level position to the role of General Manager exemplifies the company’s commitment to nurturing talent and skill development.

Trelleborg Sealing Solutions serves as a center of excellence in manufacturing and research, employing nearly six hundred people in Ħal Far and Marsa. With annual sales totaling approximately three billion euros, Trelleborg acknowledges Malta’s conducive business environment for its specialized industries to thrive.

Accompanying Prime Minister Abela on his visit was Minister for Economy, Enterprise, and Strategic Projects, Silvio Schembri.

#MaltaDaily

Most Maltese Tourists Went To Italy In Late 2023

Feb 19 2024

In the fourth quarter of 2023, outbound tourist numbers rose significantly, reaching 218,288, marking a 21.1% increase compared to the same period in 2022.

These travellers collectively spent 1,494,943 nights abroad. Holiday trips accounted for the majority, with 140,554 journeys, followed by visits to friends and relatives at 51,528 trips. The age group of 25 to 44 years constituted the largest segment of outbound tourists at 48.4%, followed by those aged 45 to 64 at 28.6%.

Trips to both EU and non-EU countries saw notable growth, with increases of 19.3% and 26.6%, respectively. Italy remained the favoured destination, attracting 33.3% of total tourist trips.

Overall, outbound tourists spent 23.1% more nights abroad, totalling just under 1.5 million. Most nights were spent in non-rented accommodation establishments, accounting for 54.6% of stays. On average, each outbound tourist stayed for 6.8 nights.

Expenditure by outbound tourists surged by 23.6%, reaching €196.2 million for the quarter, with an average of €899 per capita.

Throughout 2023, total outbound tourist trips numbered 814,005, a substantial increase of 35.3% over 2022. Total nights spent increased by 33.9%, exceeding 5.6 million nights, while estimated expenditure by resident tourists amounted to €734.8 million, marking a significant rise of 42.0% compared to 2022.

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Chinese New Year Parade Held in Valletta

Feb 19 2024

On the 17th of February, the Maltese China Cultural Centre celebrated Chinese New Year by organising two events both held in Malta’s capital city Valletta.

This year’s Chinese New Year which is also regarded as the year of the dragon, was celebrated on the 10th of February, as unlike it’s western counterpart which is always celebrated on the 1st of January, the date of the Chinese New Year fluctuates and depends on the lunar calendar. For Chinese people all around the world New Year’s day is always celebrated on the second new moon after the winter solstice.

The first event organised was a parade with Chinese and Maltese volunteer models donning Hanfu which is traditional clothing used to be worn by Chinese in the past. The route of the parade started at the Maltese China Cultural Centre at 173, Melita Street, Valletta and continued to Republic Street, St. George Square, went passed the iconic parliament building and ended in Triton Square.

The second event took place at the China Cultural Centre, where members and the public could try authentic Chinese tea, make Chinese lanterns and New Year paintings, and learn Chinese calligraphy with the guidance of an art teacher. It was undoubtedly a fun way to experience Chinese culture and celebrate the New Year together.

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2 Years Without Chris Scicluna: Moira With Tribute

Feb 19 2024

2 years ago, Maltese singer and songwriter Chris Scicluna, passed away aged 62.

Chris had represented Malta for the Eurovision Song Contest final with his wife Moira Stafrace and their song ‘More Than Love’ in 1994.

Taking to social media, Moira wrote: ‘2 years without you… still feels like yesterday’.

‘I’m kind of reliving it in my head like a movie on ‘fast forward’ .. But it was not a movie.. It was real.. All of it.. All that happened.. And now that I have come to accept I know that I am more than what happened to me… Life taught me a lot.. But you taught me more and living happily at peace is one of them! And last nights Guns performance at MCC was just for you and I know you were with me. We miss you Chris… immensely.’

Chris was the father of his and Moira’s daughter Michela, with the local music scene all expressing its condolences and mourning upon the advent of his passing.

#MaltaDaily