Over 29,000 People Sign Manoel Island Petition

A parliamentary petition urging the government to reclaim Manoel Island and transform it into a national heritage park has closed with over 29,000 signatures, surpassing 5% of Malta’s population.

The petition, launched two months ago under the Manoel Island: Post Għalina campaign, is being hailed by organisers as a powerful demonstration of public support for the island’s return to public use.

Led by Moviment Graffitti and Flimkien għal Ambjent Aħjar (FAA), and endorsed by nearly 50 organisations, the campaign attracted wide-ranging support from artists, academics, and politicians across the political spectrum.

Campaigners argue that Manoel Island’s current leaseholder has not fulfilled its contractual obligations to complete development works by March 2026, a deadline that could, if unmet, allow the government to rescind the 99-year concession.

FAA’s Jamie Mercieca described the moment as a “once-in-a-lifetime opportunity” to prioritise public well-being over private development. Petition organiser Robert Louis Fenech added that the cost of inaction would far outweigh any short-term compensation.

Campaigners say their work will continue as they press government to turn public backing into concrete policy, ensuring Manoel Island becomes a green space for all.

#MaltaDaily