Malta Celebrate 60 Years of Independence

Sep 21 2024

Today, Malta celebrates the 60th anniversary of its Independence, marking six decades since the country gained sovereignty from British rule on September 21, 1964. The day is observed as a national public holiday, with citizens across the Maltese Islands reflecting on the country’s journey toward self-governance, development, and international recognition.

Independence Day, or Jum l-Indipendenza, is one of the most significant milestones in Malta’s history. The momentous event in 1964 marked the end of over 150 years of British colonial rule, granting Malta the ability to govern its own affairs. Though the British monarch, Queen Elizabeth II, remained Malta’s head of state until it became a republic in 1974, Independence set the stage for the island’s modern political and social development.

To commemorate this important anniversary, a series of celebrations are taking place across Malta. Wreath-laying at the Independence Monument in Floriana is a key feature of today’s events, along with various cultural performances, concerts, and other celebrations highlighting Maltese heritage and resilience.

Awguri f’Jum l-Indipendenza!

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Neil Agius Sets Off on Record-Breaking Swim Around the Maltese Islands

Sep 21 2024

Ultra-endurance athlete and clean seas activist Neil Agius has embarked on a new world record attempt today, aiming to swim around the entire Maltese archipelago. Agius set off from Għadira Bay with the goal of completing a non-stop, unassisted 160km open-water swim, looping around Malta, Gozo, and Comino over the next three days.

This ambitious challenge is Agius’ attempt to break his own world record for the longest unassisted sea swim, which he set in 2021 by swimming 125.7km from Linosa to Gozo. To break his current record, Agius will need to surpass the 104km distance around the islands.

The swim has been meticulously planned, with his team closely monitoring sea and air conditions over the past few days to find the perfect window for this massive undertaking. Agius and his team had been on a 48-hour standby before announcing today’s departure.

Agius will be swimming towards the South of Malta, around the island, towards Gozo then back to Malta.

If successful, Agius will reclaim his title after a previous attempt in Spain last year was abandoned due to unfavourable conditions. He is expected to complete the swim and return to Malta on Tuesday, where he hopes to not only set a new world record but also raise awareness for cleaner seas.

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Dr. Lydia Abela Nominates Jake Vella for Ġieħ ir-Repubblika

Sep 20 2024

Dr. Lydia Abela, wife of the Prime Minister, recently visited the home of Maruska and Josie Vella in Birżebbuġa to deliver heartfelt news. Their beloved son, Jake Vella, who recently passed away, will be posthumously nominated for Ġieħ ir-Repubblika, Malta’s highest civilian honour. Dr. Abela shared that Jake’s incredible spirit and determination touched the entire nation, leaving behind a legacy of courage in the face of adversity.

Jake, who battled the rare chronic condition ROHHAD, never allowed his illness to define him. His love for triathlons and his refusal to let his condition limit his dreams captured the hearts of Maltese people. His story became one of hope, strength, and unwavering resolve. Even as his health deteriorated, Jake remained a beacon of positivity, inspiring those around him.

Dr. Abela described Jake as “an extraordinary altruist who, despite his personal challenges, always found a way to bring joy to others, especially to those without a voice. He radiated love and brought people together.” She further expressed, “Jake is regarded as a hero. He endured pain, but lived with a passion for life. He is an example to us all of how you should never lose hope.”

Jake Vella’s passing was met with a wave of grief across the islands, but also with a collective sense of gratitude for the light he brought into the world. His parents, deeply moved by the honor, thanked Dr. Abela for ensuring their son’s name will live on, not just in their hearts, but across the entire nation. They also extended their appreciation to the people of Malta and Gozo for their unwavering support during the most challenging times of their lives.

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’28 Years Later’ Becomes Biggest Ever Movie To Be Filmed On An iPhone

Sep 20 2024

Danny Boyle’s zombie apocalypse movie ’28 Years Later’, has become the largest ever movie to be filmed completely on an iPhone.

This historical feat showcases not only a creative and cost friendly way to film a blockbuster movie but also shows the high level of quality reached by Apple and their iPhone products.

The film, which is the first of a planned trilogy, will see the return of Hollywood A-lister Cillian Murphy in his role as Jim from the original zombie apocalypse movies in 2002.

’28 Years Later’ has a stellar cast including not only Cillian Murphy but also stars such as Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Jodie Comer, Ralph Fiennes, and Jack O’Connell.

The film had a budget of $75 million, making it the most expensive film to be ever shot completely on a smartphone.

The choice to film with the iPhone 15 was kept secret throughout production, with the cast and crew under strict non-disclosure agreements. However, several sources connected to the project recently confirmed the details of this filming method to WIRED.

The iPhone 15 Pro Max used during shooting was outfitted with professional accessories, including lenses, microphones, and tripods, which enhanced its ability to capture footage in 4K resolution.

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