National Library Hosts Unveiling of Conservation Project for Historic Manuscript

Nov 27 2024

A crucial piece of Maltese history, the document in which Emperor Charles V granted the Maltese Islands to the Knights of St John in 1530, now has a specially designed structure to ensure its preservation for future generations.

Unveiled at the National Library of Malta, the conservation project was made possible through a collaboration between the Embassy of Spain, Bank of Valletta (BOV), Mapfre, Heritage Malta, Malta Libraries, and the Order of Malta. BOV donated the structure, which protects the Act of Donation of the Maltese Islands, marking the 500th anniversary of this significant event.

Speaking at the event, Minister for National Heritage, the Arts and Local Government Owen Bonnici praised the initiative for preserving the nation’s rich history while promoting its importance both locally and abroad.

Attendees also got a glimpse of other historical treasures, including a facsimile of the 1524 Salinas manuscript donated by the Spanish Embassy and a letter from Pope Clement VII to Grand Master L’Isle Adam.

This event is just the beginning of a series of exhibitions, talks, and cultural activities planned through 2030 to celebrate Malta’s history and its pivotal role in Europe’s story.

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Rabat Band Clubs Unite In Message Against Domestic Violence

Nov 27 2024

With their facades lit up in orange, flags bearing anti-domestic violence messages fluttering, and a series of events, the band clubs of Rabat, Malta, have joined forces for days of activism against domestic violence.

The Isle Adam Band Club and the St. Paul Konti Ruġġieru Band Society are uniting Rabat into one community with their ongoing initiatives during the 16 Days of Activism Against Domestic Violence.

“As musical societies, we believe we have an important role to play—not only to convey this message among our members but also within the community we serve. On this issue, we must stand as one united community, which is why we launched this initiative,” said Daniel Giordmaina, Secretary of the Isle Adam Band Club.

“As a locality, we are an example of how different organizations can work together in a spirit of unity and respect. This time, we’ve taken it to a higher level with a shared campaign that ultimately serves a noble cause,” emphasized Henry Debattista, Secretary of the St. Paul Konti Ruġġieru Band Society.

The initiative includes the display of messages around the locality, the production of online content, and several public activities. On December 1, in collaboration with the 7th Rabat Girl Guides, a collection drive for women’s and children’s care items will be held as part of an “Action Day” outside St. Paul’s Basilica and the Church of Santa Marija ta’ Ġesù. This collection, in support of Dar Merhba Bik, will take place from 9:00 to 11:30 a.m., and the public is invited to contribute.

These activities are being organized with support from the Government Social Causes Fund.

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Ursula von der Leyen Welcomes Glenn Micallef To EU Top Team

Nov 27 2024

Glenn Micallef, Malta’s nominee for the European Commission, has been approved as part of Ursula von der Leyen’s new team, which will take office on December 1.

Micallef will oversee the Intergenerational Fairness, Youth, Culture, and Sport portfolio. Prime Minister Robert Abela expressed his best wishes for Micallef in this significant role, which places Malta at the heart of key EU initiatives.

The European Parliament approved the new Commission with 370 votes in favour and 282 against, marking the start of von der Leyen’s second term as Commission President. European Parliament President Roberta Metsola hailed the decision as a “good day for European democracy” and encouraged the team to rise to Europe’s challenges.

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During her presentation, von der Leyen emphasised readiness to tackle pressing issues such as innovation, security, and decarbonisation, with the European Green Deal remaining a central priority.

The first initiative will be a “competitiveness compass” to address Europe’s innovation gap and enhance energy independence amid global and geopolitical challenges.

The debate revealed mixed views, with some MEPs urging greater focus on competitiveness and defence while others voiced reservations about the new team. Despite this, Micallef’s role highlights Malta’s commitment to shaping EU policy on cultural, generational, and youth issues.

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Glenn Micallef Secures EU Youth and Culture Role

Nov 27 2024

The European Parliament today approved the new European Commission, led by Ursula von der Leyen, paving the way for the team to officially take office on 1 December. The vote, which saw 370 in favour and 282 against, confirmed the line-up for von der Leyen’s second term as President.

Malta’s nominee, Glenn Micallef, has been entrusted with the portfolio of Intergenerational Fairness, Youth, Culture, and Sport. Prime Minister Robert Abela congratulated Micallef, wishing him success in his new role and expressing confidence in his contribution to the European Union.

In presenting her team before the vote, von der Leyen stressed the Commission’s dedication to addressing Europe’s critical challenges, including freedom, security, and economic innovation. She announced the first initiative of her new mandate will be a “competitiveness compass” to close the innovation gap with global powers, increase energy independence, and accelerate decarbonisation under the European Green Deal.

Debates ahead of the vote reflected mixed views among MEPs, with some emphasising the need to strengthen competitiveness, energy security, and defence, while others voiced opposition to the new team.

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