Malta Signs WHO Declaration In Support Of Mental Health

Jun 17 2025

In Paris, Minister for Health and Active Ageing Jo Etienne Abela attended the High-Level Regional Conference on Mental Health, where he signed the Paris Declaration on Malta’s behalf.

The conference, organised by the WHO Regional Office for Europe and the French Ministry of Health, brought together 14 European ministers and delegates from 30 countries. Discussions focused on the relevance of mental health across all areas of society and the need to reduce stigma and silence surrounding mental health conditions

In Paris, Minister for Health and Active Ageing Jo Etienne Abela attended the High-Level Regional Conference on Mental Health

Minister Abela outlined Malta’s National Strategy for Suicide Prevention, which is currently undergoing public consultation. He explained that the strategy includes contributions from various ministries and 31 organisations, and is being developed in collaboration with the WHO. The final version will be launched after public feedback has been reviewed.

He also stressed the importance of using social media to spread awareness and information about mental health, while warning against its misuse to promote hate or falsehoods. He voiced particular concern over children’s access to harmful content online.

Minister Abela reaffirmed Malta’s commitment to improving mental health services within the community. He also praised the government’s decision to integrate psychiatric care with physical health services at Mater Dei Hospital, describing it as a sound and timely move.

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‘A snail With Balls’: Yes, All Those Are Snail Eggs!

Jun 17 2025

Marine biologist Alan Deidun recently shared a fascinating little snail spotted in Maltese waters.

The snail and its eggs were found by Lewis Mark Sell, a citizen scientist and SCUBA diving instructor. He saw what looked like a bunch of tiny balls, but they were actually snail eggs.

Lewis also took the amazing photo of the egg mass while diving underwater. Thanks to him, we get a rare look at how these snails lay their eggs.

The eggs were laid by a sea snail called the ribbed helmet shell. Its scientific name is Semicassis granulata undulata, and in Maltese, it is called elmu.

Have you ever seen something like this?

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Call For Maltese MEPs To Back Strong Animal Welfare Rules

Jun 17 2025

Animal welfare groups in Malta are urging the country’s Members of the European Parliament to support the European Union’s proposed regulation on the welfare of dogs and cats, warning that recent amendments risk leaving millions of animals unprotected.

The regulation, first proposed by the European Commission in December 2023, aims to improve conditions for companion animals across the EU.

However, Maltese organisations including Vuċi għall-Annimali, MSPCA, Gozo SPCA, and others have voiced concern over proposed exemptions that could undermine its impact.

Key issues raised include the exclusion of cats from mandatory identification and registration, exemptions for small-scale or household breeders, and the removal of protections for military and hunting dogs.

These loopholes, the groups argue, could make it harder to track ownership, allow unethical breeding, and worsen already severe stray populations.

Other concerns include proposals to lower the breeding age for female dogs and allow widespread artificial insemination, which could lead to increased health issues and disregard for animal welfare.

The animal rights groups are calling on Maltese MEPs to reject the exemptions and fully support the regulation. They also stated that they will monitor how each MEP votes and will update the public on their stance.

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Pitch Black 2025: Start Up Competition For Seed & Pre-Seed Entries

Jun 17 2025

Applications are now open for the second edition of Pitch Black, the start-up competition taking place as part of Start Up Festival Malta 2025.

This year, the contest features two categories: Seed and Pre-Seed, giving both emerging and early-growth start-ups a chance to compete.

The Semi-Final will be held on Wednesday 22 October. Finalists will then pitch on Friday 24 October, when the winners will be announced.

The competition is open to both Maltese and international participants. Application forms are available at startupfestivalmalta.com, and completed forms must be sent to [email protected].

Pitch Black offers more than just exposure. Winners will receive a prize package, with an estimated value to be announced shortly. The contest is supported by a number of sponsors, who will be confirmed soon.

Pitch Black is part of Malta’s push to support start-up innovation and connect founders with investors, mentors and international opportunities.

Last year’s edition drew strong interest and competitive pitches across various sectors.

Start-ups looking to gain visibility, funding and momentum are encouraged to apply. This is your opportunity to showcase your idea in front of key players in the start-up scene.

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