Malta October 2023 Driest Since 1922, UOM Report Warns

Jan 26 2024

In 2023, the World Meteorological Organisation declared it the warmest year on record globally, with an alarming average temperature of 1.45 ± 0.12 °C above pre-industrial levels. Extreme weather events, growing in frequency and cost, are now challenging global forecasts.

The World Economic Forum warns of potential 14.5 million deaths and $12.5 trillion in economic losses worldwide by 2050 due to climate change, emphasizing the urgent need for global action.

Germany, Belgium, Luxembourg, and the Netherlands faced $43 billion in damages and 200 deaths from floods in July 2021, with event costs rising by almost 77% between 2018-2023.

Malta experienced its share of extreme weather events in 2023, such as intense heatwaves, erratic storms, and cyclones. Notably, October was the driest since 1922, and February delivered 70% of the winter’s precipitation.

The Cerberus heatwave in July set records, with a 29.6 oC average temperature and a 10-day heatwave impacting national infrastructure. These events, intensifying and occurring more frequently, disrupt delicate ecosystems, agriculture, and population well-being.

UN Secretary-General António Guterres urgently calls for increased global action to limit the rise in global temperature to 1.5 °C and ensure climate justice.

In the face of a shifting focus among climate deniers to undermine solutions, consistent messaging is crucial, especially on influential platforms like YouTube, given its potential to significantly influence public opinion for an extended period.

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Most Consider Maximum Of 2 Others As ‘Best Friends’

Jan 26 2024

Asking our followers on Instagram, 35% of respondents revealed that they consider two other people to be their best friends. 20% consider only one person as such whereas 29% consider three persons as such.

16% said that they consider four or more people their best friend.

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Asked how many times they meet their close group of friends a week, 52% said they only meet once a week or less. However, 33% said they meet them three or more times, with just 15% meeting them twice a week.

Asked about whether they have close friends of the same sex/gender, 66% said yes whereas only 14% said no. 20% said it is a mix.

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Malta Daily Partners with Business Leaders Malta for Groundbreaking Conference “Mind The Gap”

Jan 25 2024

Malta Daily is proud to announce its partnership with Business Leaders Malta in launching one of the most anticipated events on the island – a business conference that has become a hallmark of excellence over the years. This collaboration marks a significant milestone, as Business Leaders Malta prepares to host the 11th edition of its esteemed conference, promising to make it the largest and most impactful yet.

This year’s conference, themed “Mind the Gap”, will be held at the Mediterranean Conference Centre and is set to delve into the generational divides that are currently shaping the business landscape. The theme is a reflection of the evolving challenges and opportunities that arise from the diverse age groups coexisting in today’s workforce. Understanding and bridging these gaps is crucial for the success and adaptability of businesses in a rapidly changing world.

The lineup of guest speakers is particularly noteworthy, featuring prominent figures such as David JP Phillips, Jenk Oz, Michael Cutajar, Neil Agius, Edward Curmi, and Katrina Grech. Their expertise and diverse perspectives are expected to offer profound insights and foster engaging discussions among attendees.

We encourage professionals and business enthusiasts to seize this opportunity by registering early. Early bird registrations are open until 15th February 2024, offering a chance to secure a place at what promises to be an enlightening and transformative event. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to gain valuable insights, network with industry leaders, and be a part of an event that is shaping the future of business in Malta.

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Arts Council Malta Unveils Ambitious Action Plan for 2024

Jan 25 2024

The Minister for the National Heritage, the Arts, and Local Government, Owen Bonnici, launched Arts Council Malta’s (ACM) Action Plan for 2024. Describing the upcoming year as a period of substantial investments, initiatives, and programs, Minister Bonnici emphasised ACM’s commitment to implementing the National Cultural Policy.

The centrepiece of this initiative is a significant financial commitment, with approximately €5 million earmarked for funding schemes and educational programs targeting diverse segments of the cultural and creative sectors. Minister Bonnici highlighted that the funds will benefit a broad spectrum of stakeholders, including individual artists, creative practitioners, groups, voluntary organisations, registered entities, and cooperatives.

A key aspect of the Action Plan is the introduction of 27 funding schemes, including three innovative initiatives: the Apprenticeship Scheme, the Regional Cultural Cooperation Programme, and the Film and TV Support Scheme. These programs aim to foster growth, collaboration, and innovation within the cultural and creative industries.

Minister Bonnici acknowledged the successful collaborative efforts that have propelled ACM to its current strategic success. He emphasised the vital role ACM plays in investment, advocacy, and support, underscoring the organisation’s commitment to empowering and facilitating improvements crucial to the health of Malta’s cultural sectors.

Albert Marshall, ACM Executive Chairman, affirmed the Council’s dedication to fostering innovation within Malta’s cultural and creative sectors. Marshall celebrated the unprecedented increase in government investment, a more prominent Maltese presence in the global artistic community, and strengthened local and international partnerships.

On the other hand, Mary Ann Cauchi, ACM Director of Funding and Strategy, highlighted the Council’s ongoing efforts to ensure that a wider audience benefits directly and indirectly from their initiatives.

Looking ahead, 2024 promises to be an exciting year for internationalisation, marked by Malta’s continued participation at La Biennale Di Venezia with a national pavilion curated by artist Matthew Attard titled “I Will Follow the Ship.” Additionally, ACM will play a pivotal role in the opening of the London Design Biennale 2025 Malta Pavilion Call.

On the local front, ACM’s commitment to knowledge dissemination and community engagement will continue through a series of initiatives, webinars, and information sessions. A noteworthy addition is “Kunsillkafè,” a novel concept aimed at fostering relaxed dialogues and discussions within the cultural community.

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