Malta’s First Cannabis Club Begins Operation

Jan 30 2024

Malta’s inaugural cannabis club, the KDD Society, has initiated the distribution of cannabis to its members, marking a significant development since the country became the first EU Member State to legalize cannabis.

The Authority for the Responsible Use of Cannabis (ARUC) confirmed the society’s compliance with all mandatory laboratory tests, ensuring the cannabis is free from contaminants.

Termed ‘Cannabis Harm Reduction Associations,’ these clubs are the sole legal means for individuals to purchase cannabis in Malta.

The ARUC emphasized the necessity for legal cannabis to be distributed in containers labeled by ARUC, featuring a ‘Phytocannabinoid Profile’ for cannabinoid content and potency.

Comprehensive tests include micro-organism analyte, bacteria, yeast and mold count, mycotoxins, trace/heavy metal analyte, water activity and moisture content, and filth and foreign material.

Expressing satisfaction, the ARUC highlighted that a year after establishing club regulations, the registered association (CHRA 002) has commenced operations “in a highly regulated manner based on a public health and harm reduction approach.”

Limited to Maltese residents, these cannabis clubs are subject to stringent regulations, with six associations currently authorized to cultivate and sell cannabis in Malta, as per the ARUC website. This development comes three months after KDD Society and another association were granted licenses for legal cultivation and sale of cannabis.

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15th Edition Of ŻiguŻajg Officially Launched

Jan 30 2024

The ŻiguŻajg season is making a comeback with a diverse program specifically crafted to captivate and inspire children and young audiences through a wide array of artistic activities. This initiative encompasses music, film, theater, science, and more, showcasing collaborative efforts from both international and Maltese creative talents.

Minister for National Heritage, the Arts, and Local Government, Owen Bonnici, articulates that this year’s ŻiguŻajg season continues its commitment to promoting integration and fostering respect for diversity. The overarching aim of this program is to contribute to communities that actively celebrate and embrace their diversity.

“For this season, we’ve selected 10 projects spanning 5 different art forms, involving the talents of over 35 artists. Beyond being a celebration of the arts, this season serves as a proactive initiative to enhance inclusivity within the artistic community and beyond,” concluded Minister Bonnici.

Rupert Cefai, Chair of the Creativity Foundation, underscores how ŻiguŻajg has solidified itself as a cornerstone for arts and culture, shaping the future audience. He pledges to continue their efforts to ensure the ongoing success and expansion of ŻiguŻajg.

From his perspective, Daniel Azzopardi, the Artistic Director of Spazju Kreattiv, expresses the commitment to integrating creative arts into people’s lives through artistic excellence, cultural diversity, and social inclusivity. The ŻiguŻajg season for this year promises a enriching experience for children and their families.

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Kirkop’s Our Lady Of Sorrows Painting Restored

Jan 30 2024

An 18th century painting of Our Lady Of Sorrows, attributed to Francesco Zahra, was restored into its full glory this week.

The painting, which shows Jesus Christ taken down from the cross and place into his mother Mary’s arms, was restored by Atelier del Restauro.

The restored painting was inaugurated on the 28th of January in the presence of Archbishop Charles J. Scicluna and Minister for National Heritage, the Arts and Local Councils Owen Bonnici.

The restoration took place through the financial support of the Maltese Council for Arts as well as APS Bank.

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Over 160 Youth Organisations Awarded Funds For Community Projects

Jan 30 2024

More than 160 voluntary youth organizations, along with organizations focused on youth initiatives, received funding totaling approximately €735,000 during an event organized by Aġenzija Żgħażagħ. The awards ceremony, graced by Parliamentary Secretary for Youth, Research, and Innovation Keith Azzopardi Tanti, acknowledged and rewarded the organizations benefiting from these funding schemes.

Expressing gratitude for the continuous efforts of youth voluntary organizations in communities, Secretary Azzopardi Tanti emphasized the need for more volunteers in our society. He commended the dedication of these organizations and pledged ongoing support, citing the increasing annual investment in youth initiatives.

Aġenzija Żgħażagħ’s Youth Empowerment Unit Manager, Maria Carmela Borg, highlighted the agency’s growth since its inception. She emphasized the agency’s mission to aid youth organizations and those working with young people in enhancing their societal contributions. Ms. Borg noted that, since its establishment, the agency has facilitated over 1,000 projects, benefiting around 121,500 youths, with a cumulative funding surpassing €2.5 million through various schemes.

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