Half Of Who Took Driving Test In 2024 Failed

Oct 22 2024

Nearly half of those taking their driving test in 2024 have failed to obtain their license, according to Transport Minister Chris Bonett.

In response to a parliamentary question from PN MP Mark Anthony Sammut, Bonett revealed that 48% of applicants for the category B license (for cars) failed their test this year, up from 44% in 2023 and 40% in 2022, reflecting an 8% rise over two years.

The highest failure rate in 2024 was for the category D license, required for passenger vans, with a 56% failure rate, a sharp increase from 46% in 2023 and 39% in 2022.

Motorcycle learners (category A) also saw more failures, with 42% failing in 2024 compared to 40% in 2023 and 32% in 2022.

The category C license, for trucks and large vans, had the lowest failure rate at 38%, though it too rose from 33% in 2023 and 24% in 2022.

Failure rates have steadily increased across all categories, though it is unclear if this is due to stricter testing standards or other factors.

#MaltaDaily

Punic Tomb Discovered During Mater Dei Car Park Development

Oct 22 2024

A Punic tomb, dating back approximately 2,300 years, was uncovered during excavation work for a new car park opposite Mater Dei Hospital in Malta.

The discovery was made while trenching for water installation, and the Superintendence of Cultural Heritage (SCH) has overseen the site since the project’s start.

The tomb, part of a larger burial complex, includes three chambers carved into natural rock, each accessed through a central shaft. Remarkably, the chambers were sealed with original slabs and contained human remains and grave goods.

A team of archaeologists and osteologists has been carefully excavating and documenting the findings, which include skeletal remains, cremation urns, and other funerary artefacts.

These artefacts suggest the tomb was used during the Punic period, with some evidence of continued use into the early Roman era. The remains and objects have been transferred to the SCH laboratory for further analysis, including studies on age, sex, and pathology, and potential C14 dating and DNA analysis.

The collaboration between the Foundation for Medical Services, Infrastructure Malta, and SCH highlights Malta’s commitment to balancing development with heritage preservation. With the tomb fully excavated, work on the 130-space car park has resumed, and SCH will continue monitoring the site for further discoveries.

#MaltaDaily

Messi & Bad Bunny Reveal Adidas Collaboration

Oct 22 2024

Adidas Originals has announced a new collaboration between global music star Bad Bunny and soccer icon Lionel Messi.

The “Bad Bunny & Messi Collection” celebrates the connection between music and sport, honouring the legacies of both figures while reinforcing adidas’ influence in global culture.

Bad Bunny, a longtime admirer of Messi, has referenced him in his music multiple times, while Messi features seven of Bad Bunny’s songs in his pre-game playlist.

This mutual respect inspired the collaboration, which features two iconic Adidas models: the Adidas Gazelle and the F50 soccer cleat. The F50, worn by Messi throughout his career, is considered one of the best soccer shoes ever, while the Gazelle, originally popular in indoor soccer, has become a lifestyle favourite and one of Bad Bunny’s go-to shoes.

The collection’s designs feature gold accents inspired by Messi’s trophies and the number 10 on the heel, reflecting his legendary status. Both shoes bear the signatures of Messi and Bad Bunny, symbolising their partnership.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by adidas Football (@adidasfootball)

A campaign celebrating their fans accompanies the launch, with a short film featuring the stars reading a heartfelt letter created from fan messages. The collection will be available globally on October 26, with prices ranging from 180 to 300 EUR. This collaboration blends sport, music, and culture in a unique way.

#MaltaDaily

HMV Sign Officially Restored

Oct 22 2024

After the HMV sign was damaged due to construction works and was taken down for restoration, a replica of the sign was officially set up in the former sign’s place.

The replica boasts an expertly accurate look to the original sign – a testament to the artists’ skill at the craft.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by D’Amato Records (@damatorecords)

The ‘His Master’s Voice’ Sign, features a dog and a gramophone on a yellow background, and resided above the historic D’Amato Records shop in Valletta.

The sign is a part of the capital city’s cultural heritage, and has now been restored for another era of music lovers and passers-by to admire in Valletta.

#MaltaDaily