The Tragic Murder of Pelin Kaya: One Year Later

Jan 18 2024

On this day, Thursday January 18th, Malta reflects upon the anniversary of Pelin Kaya’s tragic death. Exactly one year ago, the vibrant 30-year-old lost her life in an incident that shook Malta to its core.

Pelin had chosen Malta as her new home, lured by the opportunity to study English and captivated by the island’s charm. Settling in Gżira, she was building a life, career and future of her on own..

However, fate took a cruel turn on the night of January 18th, hours after turning 30, when Jeremie Camilleri, a 33-year-old man from Lija, forever altered the course of Pelin’s life. Camilleri, reportedly high on cocaine, ran over Pelin before careening into a petrol station and a restaurant. The aftermath revealed a harrowing scene, with Camilleri exiting the vehicle and acting aggressively towards passers-by.

As Malta mourns the loss of Pelin Kaya, the community is left waiting for justice, as Jeremie Camilleri is yet to be sentenced.

The memory of Pelin Kaya remains etched in the hearts of those who knew her, serving as a poignant reminder of the devastating consequences that can arise from a single, senseless act.

#MaltaDaily

Gozo Carnival Traditions We’ll Never Get Tired Of

Jan 17 2024

Gozo Carnival, a historic celebration on the picturesque island of Gozo, is not just an event; it’s a cherished tradition marked by vibrant festivities, unique customs, and a camaraderie that brings people together. As the carnival season approaches, anticipation builds for the annual pilgrimage to Gozo, where a weekend of revelry awaits. In this article, we explore six Gozo Carnival traditions that enthusiasts eagerly look forward to every year.

The Long Trip Up to Gozo with Your Favorite Pre-Party Playlist

The excitement begins as soon as you hit the road for the annual journey to Gozo. Packed with friends and filled with anticipation, the trip is made memorable by the perfect pre-party playlist. Whether it’s a mix of carnival classics or your favourite party anthems, the journey sets the tone for a weekend of festivities.

A Delicious Traditional Gozitan Ftira Upon Arrival

No Gozo Carnival experience is complete without indulging in the mouthwatering flavours of a traditional Gozitan ftira. Freshly baked and bursting with local ingredients from beloved bakeries like Mekren’s, Tal-Mulejja or Ta’ Saminu, this savoury speciality is the perfect treat to kickstart the festivities.

A Weekend of Carnival Madness Including Parties and Nadur Celebrations

The heart of the Gozo Carnival lies in its vibrant celebrations. From unmatched parties to the unique Nadur Carnival, the weekend is a whirlwind of colour, music, and dancing. The infectious energy of locals and Maltese visitors brings people together, creating memories that last a lifetime.

The One Minor Issue with the Flat/Farmhouse That Pops Up Every Year

Despite the joyous atmosphere, there’s always a humorous twist when it comes to the accommodation. Whether it’s a problem with the heating or a busted light bulb, these minor issues become part of the tradition. Laughter (and a ħaqq here and there) ensues as friends navigate through the unexpected.

A Cheeky Post-Party McDonald’s

As the night winds down and the hunger kicks in, there’s nothing like a cheeky post-party visit to McDonald’s in Rabat. It has become a tradition to satisfy those cravings with a quick stop for a burger and fries. The golden arches offer a comforting end to a night filled with carnival revelry.

The Half-Asleep Trip Down to Malta After a Weekend Well Spent

With the weekend coming to a close, the exhaustion from days of celebration sets in. The trip back down to Malta becomes a half-asleep journey filled with contentment. Reflecting on the memories made, the camaraderie shared, and the unique traditions experienced, the journey home becomes a time to relive the highlights of a Gozo Carnival well spent.

#MaltaDaily

Bail Granted To Man Assaulted By Paceville Bouncers

Jan 17 2024

Ahmed Adam Idriss Albarjo, the man assaulted by nightclub bouncers on New Year’s Day in Paceville, has been granted bail, spending more time in custody than some of his attackers.

Abarjo, a 30-year-old from Sudan, faced charges of slight bodily harm for allegedly throwing a bottle and a sharp object at a bouncer during the altercation on January 6. The bouncer suffered cuts in the incident.

Serbian bouncers Ivan Marjanovic and Aleksandar Kovacic, part of the group that attacked Albarjo, were fined €100 each after pleading guilty to assault charges and apologizing in court.

Petar Bajic, another bouncer, was also arraigned. However, Ryan Zammit and Riald Gragjevi, charged with causing grievous bodily harm to Albarjo, remain in preventive custody.

Gragjevi, who was slightly injured by Albarjo, expressed forgiveness from the witness stand. Albarjo was released on bail with a €200 deposit, a €1,800 personal guarantee, and conditions such as signing a bail book three times a week.

Inspector Brian Xuereb is prosecuting, and lawyer Roberta Bonello Felice is representing Albarjo.

#MaltaDaily

Apple Overtakes Samsung As World Largest Smart Phone Seller

Jan 17 2024

Apple has surpassed Samsung to claim the largest share of the global smartphone market for the first time in 12 years, capturing over 20% of phones shipped in the past year, according to data from the International Data Corporation (IDC).

Samsung secured 19.4% of the market, while Chinese brands Xiaomi, OPPO, and Transsion followed. Smartphone sales globally saw a decline of over 3%, amounting to nearly 1.2 billion units sold in 2023, the lowest figure in a decade.

Economic challenges and high interest rates contributed to this downturn, but market experts anticipate a recovery in the coming year.

Despite the overall decline, Apple emerged as the “biggest winner,” selling more than 234 million phones in 2023, experiencing positive annual growth, and claiming the top spot annually for the first time.

Huawei, facing regulatory challenges and increased competition, has made progress in producing its own chips after being restricted from purchasing chips using US technology. Apple’s success is attributed to trade-in offers, interest-free financing plans, and sustained demand for premium devices.

Samsung, traditionally dominating in memory chips, smartphones, and televisions, faced a setback as global demand for consumer electronics remained weak.

Increased competition from affordable Android models, especially in emerging markets, contributed to Samsung’s challenges. The IDC also noted a shifting landscape in the smartphone market, with a growing array of Android providers diversifying the market and consumers showing increasing interest in foldable phones and AI capabilities.

#MaltaDaily