MEIA Welcomes Malta Film Commission Ministry Shift

Nov 29 2024

The Malta Entertainment Industry and Arts Association (MEIA) has responded to the recent announcement of the Malta Film Commission’s transfer from the Ministry of Tourism to the Ministry of National Heritage, the Arts, and Local Government. MEIA expressed surprise at the decision, which followed shortly after their previous statement, but views the shift as a potentially positive development for the industry.

The organisation welcomed the move, citing the opportunity for a more unified approach to the governance of Malta’s film sector. “By aligning the Malta Film Commission with the Ministry of National Heritage, the Arts and Local Government, we anticipate a more integrated strategy that can better support the diverse needs of the industry,” MEIA stated. The association hopes this transition will reduce fragmentation within the sector and encourage collaboration among stakeholders.

However, MEIA reiterated its concerns regarding governance, transparency, communication, and accountability within the Malta Film Commission, emphasising the need for these elements to build trust among industry stakeholders. The association also called for addressing the issues raised in the National Audit Office (NAO) report.

MEIA expressed its willingness to collaborate with Minister Owen Bonnici, highlighting his leadership’s importance in addressing current challenges and implementing reforms. The association sees open dialogue and collaboration as critical to overcoming obstacles and creating a sustainable framework for film production in Malta.

Additionally, MEIA underlined the need for a comprehensive national Screen Policy, aiming to establish guidelines that promote equity between domestic and international productions. They also pledged to continue working with Arts Council Malta for the effective implementation of the Domestic Screen Fund.

In conclusion, MEIA views the transfer as a step towards strengthening Malta’s film industry and remains committed to advocating for reforms and contributing to its long-term development.

#MaltaDaily

Today Is Black Friday!

Nov 29 2024

Today is Black Friday, a major shopping event that kicks off the Christmas season.

Originating in the United States, it is held the day after Thanksgiving and is known for steep discounts and early store openings, with some sales beginning as early as Thanksgiving night.

Traditionally the busiest shopping day of the year, Black Friday draws massive crowds seeking deals, with some retailers extending their promotions through Cyber Monday or even Cyber Week.

The term “Black Friday” has an interesting history. It was first used in the U.S. during financial crises, such as the 1869 gold market crash.

In the 1950s, it gained a new association with the post-Thanksgiving chaos, particularly in Philadelphia, where it described the overwhelming congestion caused by shoppers.

Despite efforts to rebrand it as “Big Friday,” the name stuck. By the 1980s, its meaning shifted to signify profitability for retailers, marking the day they moved from operating at a loss (“in the red”) to making a profit (“in the black”).

Over the years, Black Friday has become a global event. Countries worldwide have adopted similar sales, often customising them to local traditions. Online shopping and events like Cyber Monday have further expanded its influence, creating an extended holiday shopping season.

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€4 Million Investment Of 3 Kilometres Of New Asphalt In Ta Qali

Nov 29 2024

The Public Works Department has recently accelerated infrastructural upgrades in Ta’ Qali, Malta’s largest open green space.

The first phase involved critical works, including new potable water systems, drainage and rainwater management systems, and updated telecommunications and electricity infrastructure.

Currently, the second phase focuses on resurfacing 3 kilometres of roads around Ta’ Qali, with a total investment of €4 million. These upgrades include roads connecting Mtarfa, Ħ’Attard, and the centre of Ta’ Qali, enhancing access to the area.

Parliamentary Secretary for Public Works Omar Farrugia, during a site visit with Jason Micallef, Head of the Ta’ Qali National Park Division, emphasised the importance of prioritising Ta’ Qali as Malta’s “green lung.” Farrugia noted that once-neglected Ta’ Qali has become a vibrant hub for families thanks to collaborative efforts.

Micallef highlighted the complementarity of the new roadworks with the ongoing regeneration project, which has doubled the park’s size from 220,000 to 450,000 square meters.

In addition to expanded green spaces, the park now features a concert area that recently hosted world-famous artists, attracting tens of thousands of visitors. These improvements aim to provide an enhanced, accessible recreational space for locals and tourists alike.

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Kia Unveils Exclusive Footage Of Neil Agius’ Record Breaking Swim

Nov 29 2024

Kia is thrilled to announce the release of “The Swim,” the latest episode in the inspiring docuseries “The Journey of Inspiration,” chronicling Neil Agius’s incredible achievement of swimming 142.3 kilometers in 60 hours, 4 seconds around the Maltese Islands. This record-breaking feat is now captured in a compelling visual story, offering viewers exclusive access to the moments that made history.

Exclusive Footage of The Big Swim “The Swim” takes viewers on an immersive journey, showcasing the mindset, endurance, and determination that defined Neil’s world-record swim. As Kia’s exclusive footage reveals, this challenge was not just a test of physical limits but also a testament to human resilience and a shared commitment to sustainability.

Watch the Episode Here:

Kia’s Commitment to a Sustainable Future With Kia’s support, Neil Agius has shown what’s possible creating a better tomorrow. Just as Neil strives for cleaner oceans and inspires global action, Kia invests in innovative, sustainable mobility solutions that shape the future responsibly.

Catch up on the entire series and witness the journey that inspired all of us: The Journey of Inspiration Series.

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