Malta Inaugurates EU’s Advanced Semiconductor Backend Plant

Malta Inaugurates EU’s Advanced Semiconductor Backend Plant
May 8 2025 Share

Malta has marked a major milestone under its Vision 2050 strategy with the completion of Project KKO, officially making STMicroelectronics’ facility the European Union’s first advanced manufacturing backend plant.

The upgraded Kirkop facility showcases cutting-edge Industry 4.0 technologies, including full automation, precision engineering, and AI-powered systems, positioning Malta as a strategic player in the global semiconductor industry.

STMicroelectronics President Fabio Gualandris praised the transformation, noting the plant is now among the most productive in the ST Group’s global network — a remarkable shift from just seven years ago when closure was being considered.

“This is an investment in skills, innovation, and the Malta of tomorrow,” said Economy Minister Silvio Schembri, highlighting the facility’s role in national economic growth and sustainability.

The plant, employing over 1,600 professionals, is a key contributor to Malta’s €1.2 billion semiconductor export sector, which accounts for one-third of the country’s goods exports. The government, in partnership with Malta Enterprise and INDIS Malta, played a pivotal role in this transformation.

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Martina Eliminated From Brillanti Singers

Martina Eliminated From Brillanti Singers
May 8 2025 Share

It was down to Martina and Mariah this week for elimination – and it was the former who had to exit the competition.

It was a close call, with both of them being a tour de force to contend with, but Mariah ultimately came out on top.

Martina delivered a Whitney Houston song for her sing-off, brilliantly executing the iconic ‘I Didn’t Know My Own Strength.’

Unfortunately, the judges decided to keep Mariah in the competition. Martina’s presence will undoubtedly be missed!

Do you agree with the judges’ decision?

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Terry Muscat Announces Legal Actions: Bajd U Bejken Team

May 8 2025 Share

From a Facebook post this morning Terry Muscat announced legal action against, Bajd u Beckon Team.

In a Facebook live last week, Muscat stated that the team had crossed a line and emphasised that satire should not come at the expense of someone’s dignity. “Satire is not an excuse for degradation,” she said. “Freedom of expression should go hand-in-hand with respect for every individual’s dignity.”

Terry has proposed a resolution: all proceeds from the 1,200 tickets sold for the show should be donated in full to the charity Puttinu Cares, without any deductions for costs. “This will be a lesson they deserve,” she stated.

Muscat added that, if the Bajd u Bejken team agrees to these conditions, she is open to meeting in person to clear the air.

Meanwhile, podcast member JD Patrick has announced he is stepping away from Bajd u Bejken.

Bajd u Bejken has always been rooted in comedy,” JD said. “While the intent was never to offend, I understand that not everyone will interpret humour the same way. I genuinely regret if anything said during the show caused hurt or discomfort to anyone, and for that, I offer my heartfelt apologies.”

As of now, no official response to Terry’s statement has been issued by the Bajd u Bejken team.

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JD Patrick Steps Away From ‘Bajd U Bejken’ Podcast

May 7 2025 Share

JD Patrick, co-host of the popular and controversial Maltese dark humour podcast Bajd u Bejken, has officially stepped down following backlash over transphobic jokes made about prominent activist Terry Muscat, also known as Terry Ta’ Bormla.

The controversy stirred significant public reaction, leading Patrick to announce his resignation via a Facebook post.

“Due to the recent backlash, I’ve made the decision to step away from the Bajd u Bejken podcast,” he wrote, thanking the team, Patreons, and fans for their support.

While affirming that the show’s intentions were never to offend, he acknowledged that humour is subjective and apologised for any hurt caused.

The Bajd u Bejken team responded briefly but warmly on social media, saying, “Man down… we love you brother.”

It remains unclear what the podcast’s future will look like, with the team promising an update in the coming days.

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