Malta daily Facebook 970x90

Gamers Are Electing Their Pope On New Viral Game

Gamers Are Electing Their Pope On New Viral Game
Apr 30 2025 Share

Following the death of Pope Francis on April 21, a new online game called Fantapapa has captured the imagination of nearly 60,000 users, blending Italians’ love of football and religion.

Created by AI expert Pietro Pace and game developer Mauro Vanetti, the game mirrors fantasy football (Fantacalcio), allowing players to draft a team of 11 cardinals.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Fantapapa.org (@fantapapa_org)

Users choose a captain (the most likely to become pope) and a goalkeeper (the least likely), offering insight into public opinion ahead of the real papal conclave on May 7.

Top picks so far include Cardinals Matteo Zuppi, Pietro Parolin, Luis Antonio Tagle, and Pierbattista Pizzaballa—aligning with bookmakers’ odds.

The game also lets players guess the new pope’s political stance, religious order, language, and future name, with Francis, John, and Leo being favourites. With no cash rewards, winners earn only “eternal glory” in line with the creators’ anti-gambling stance.

What do you make of this?

#MaltaDaily

‘Working Today, Thinking Of Tomorrow: €17 million Investment To Boost Public Cleansing

'Working Today, Thinking Of Tomorrow: €17 million Investment To Boost Public Cleansing
Apr 29 2025 Share

Over the past two years, Malta has invested more than €17 million in modernising its public cleansing systems, with most of the new equipment being electric-powered to enhance efficiency and support sustainability.

The announcement was made during a conference attended by representatives from every local council across Malta. The event was led by Parliamentary Secretary for Public Cleansing Glenn Bedingfield and Director General of the Cleansing and Maintenance Division, Ramon Deguara.

The investment has resulted in the purchase of over 160 machines, more than 90% of which run on electricity. This marks a significant move toward more environmentally friendly and efficient public service operations.

Among the innovative technologies introduced are maritime robots designed to help clean Malta’s seas, part of a broader strategy to enhance the country’s marine environment.
Parliamentary Secretary Bedingfield highlighted the collective responsibility in maintaining public cleanliness and its positive impact on quality of life and national progress.

“We are working today while also thinking of tomorrow. With a record investment in technology and sustainability, we are building a cleaner and more modern Malta. Our commitment remains clear: to care for our country responsibly and to never forget the workers who are at the heart of our public service.”

A panel discussion during the event focused on how technology and artificial intelligence are supporting workers by making their tasks more efficient and less physically demanding. Speakers included GWU General Secretary Josef Bugeja, Mtarfa Mayor Dale Hayman, and University of Malta AI lecturer Patrick Camilleri.

It was emphasised that technology should serve to support rather than replace workers. With ongoing training and investment in the right tools, participants agreed that Malta can build a safer, more effective working environment while also advancing national sustainability goals.

Director General Ramon Deguara concluded, “The adoption of new technologies is a direct investment in the future of our public services. Technology will always be a tool in the hands of our workers, enabling them to deliver better and more sustainable services to our communities.”

#MaltaDaily

Malta daily Facebook 300x250

Miriana Conte Signed With Sony Music

Miriana Conte Signed With Sony Music
Apr 29 2025 Share

Malta’s Eurovision 2025 artist, Miriana Conte, has officially signed with SONY MUSIC — marking a major international milestone in her career.

The revamped version of her track ‘SERVING’ has now been officially released under the iconic label, following its debut on the Eurovision Song Contest’s YouTube channel, where it quickly became a fan favourite across Europe.

With its infectious beat, unapologetic energy, and Conte’s commanding vocals, ‘SERVING’ is already being tipped as one of this year’s most commercially promising entries.

In a move that echoes Malta’s 2021 success with Destiny’s ‘Je Me Casse’ — also under SONY MUSIC — the label showed early interest and finalized a licensing partnership with Malta’s National Broadcaster.

SONY MUSIC has also re-issued the original version of the song, previously titled ‘Kant’. Although this version features censored lyrics and is not part of the official Eurovision competition, it is now available on all major streaming platforms under the name ‘SERVING KANT’ to avoid confusion.

Known for her bold energy, fierce choreography, and fearless stage presence, Miriana Conte is quickly emerging not only as a Eurovision contender, but as a breakout artist to watch on the global pop scene.

#MaltaDaily

All Set For Fireworks Festival Finale On Wednesday

All Set For Fireworks Festival Finale On Wednesday
Apr 29 2025 Share

Eighteen fireworks teams, including 17 local groups and international company PyroEmotions, are set to light up the Grand Harbour on Wednesday, 30th April, for the grand finale of the Malta International Fireworks Festival.

Organised by the Malta Tourism Authority (MTA), the event celebrates Malta’s rich pyrotechnic heritage, combining tradition, creativity, and entertainment.

The finale will include a spectacular drone and fireworks display featuring over 500 drones in a synchronised show, a first for the Maltese Islands. This year’s edition also marks the 21st anniversary of Malta’s accession to the EU.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Tourism Ian Borg, alongside MTA CEO Carlo Micallef, met with some of the participating teams during Tuesday’s preparations. Among the 18 performing teams will be Għaqda tan-Nar Kerċem, last year’s winners.

The night will also see the announcement of the 2025 competition winners, following performances on 22nd and 25th April in the Grand Harbour, and on 27th April in Nadur, Gozo.

This year introduced band club performances to the festival, with Soċjetà Mużikali tal-Karmnu Balluta A.D. 1987 performing on Wednesday. Dr Borg praised all participants, noting that the festival drew over 80,000 online viewers and continues to be a major cultural attraction for both locals and tourists.

#MaltaDaily