What Is Earth Hour? And How Is Malta Contributing?

Mar 11 2025

Earth Hour is a global movement that encourages individuals, communities, and businesses to switch off non-essential lights for one hour to raise awareness about climate change and environmental conservation. Organized annually by the World Wildlife Fund (WWF), the initiative serves as a powerful reminder of our collective responsibility to protect the planet.

A Global Initiative with a Local Impact

Since its inception in 2007, Earth Hour has grown into a worldwide phenomenon, with over 190 countries taking part last year. Participants contributed more than 1.4 million hours of action towards sustainability efforts.

In Malta, Earth Hour 2025 will be marked by a special event at Pjazza San Gorg, Valletta, where attendees can engage in interactive activities, enjoy live performances, and take part in the symbolic switch-off at 8:30 PM. Additionally, landmarks and businesses across the country will dim their lights in solidarity.

Why Earth Hour Matters:

Raises Awareness – Earth Hour educates people on the importance of reducing energy consumption and environmental impact.

Encourages Action – The event inspires long-term commitments to sustainability, from reducing waste to conserving resources.

Fosters Global Unity – Millions of people worldwide participate, creating a united front in the fight against climate change.

How You Can Participate:

Turn Off Your Lights – Switch off non-essential lights from 8:30 PM – 9:30 PM as a symbol of commitment to the planet.

Attend the Event at Pjazza San Gorg – Enjoy live entertainment, educational exhibits, and community activities.

Spread Awareness – Share your participation on social media using #EarthHourMalta to inspire others.

Make Sustainable Changes – Commit to long-term actions like reducing single-use plastics, conserving energy, and supporting eco-friendly initiatives.

By joining Earth Hour 2025, you are contributing to a global movement that prioritizes sustainability and environmental protection. Let’s make a difference together!

Switch off. Take action. Be the change.

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Malta.ai Creates International Woman’s Day Inspired Valletta

Mar 11 2025

Popular Instagram page Malta.ai has once again reimagined an alternate reality using AI, this time transforming Valletta into a breathtaking tribute for International Women’s Day.

In this AI-generated version, the capital is adorned with vibrant floral decorations and elegant pink ribbons, symbolising the strength and beauty of women who celebrated the occasion.

In its caption, Malta.ai extended warm wishes to all women, emphasising that the post was created to honour their resilience and grace.

The stunning artwork serves as a creative celebration of women’s empowerment, adding a unique touch to Valletta’s iconic landscape.

#MaltaDaily

Peace Through Action Not Just Words, Urges PN

Mar 11 2025

The Nationalist Party (PN) has emphasised that peace is achieved through actions, not just words.

During a Parliamentary session following the Prime Minister’s Ministerial Statement on last week’s EU Summit, Opposition Leader Bernard Grech highlighted what he described as inconsistencies in Abela’s stance on defence and neutrality.

Grech argued that Abela’s shifting positions could have implications not only for Ukraine and its people but also for the wider European Union and its Member States, which could face future security threats.

He pointed out that Abela’s statements on defence policy have changed over time, creating confusion over Malta’s position.

While in February 2024, Abela criticised the PN’s position on strengthening Europe’s defence, by March 2024, he voted in favour of EU defence measures. More recently, in early 2025, Abela stated that Malta is not sufficiently equipped for defence and suggested reconsidering neutrality.

However, within days, he appeared to express concerns over European military investment, despite having supported such initiatives earlier.

The Nationalist Party has urged the government to take a clear and consistent stance on Malta’s role within the EU, particularly on security matters.

Bernard Grech stressed that Ukraine must not be abandoned and that a strong Europe is necessary to ensure peace and stability. He called on Robert Abela to commit to a coherent foreign policy that safeguards both Malta’s interests and European security.

#MaltaDaily

Extended Opening Hours For Active Ageing Centre In Valletta

Mar 11 2025

A few months after the official opening of the Active Ageing Centre in Valletta, it has been announced that the centre will now offer an extended programme of activities and will be open twice a week.

This initiative aims to provide older adults with more opportunities to stay engaged, active, and socially connected.

From 27th March 2025, the Valletta Active Ageing Centre will open its doors every Monday and Thursday from 7:00 AM to 3:15 PM.

This decision comes in response to the growing demand for the centre’s services and the positive impact it has already had on its regular attendees.

The Minister for Health and Active Ageing, Jo Etienne Abela, expressed the government’s commitment to investing in healthy and active communities.

He emphasised that the collaboration between government entities and local authorities is essential in expanding services that keep older adults engaged. “By increasing the number of days this centre is open, we are not only offering a wider range of activities but also ensuring that our elderly population remains an integral part of the community.”

Parliamentary Secretary for Active Ageing, Malcolm Paul Agius Galea, highlighted the importance of strengthening these Active Ageing Centres across Malta and Gozo.

He noted that the overwhelming interest shown by Valletta’s elderly residents reflects the value of such initiatives.

“With this extension, we are further enhancing opportunities for older adults to remain physically, mentally, and socially active. These centres provide a safe and supportive space, offering social interaction, learning opportunities, and a better quality of life for our elderly population.”

Parliamentary Secretary for Local Government, Alison Zerafa Civelli, commended the Valletta Local Council for identifying and addressing the needs of its elderly residents. She also praised Active Ageing and Community Care for their ongoing collaboration.

She stated that this initiative ensures that more older adults can participate in activities that support both their physical and mental well-being.

Situated within the Valletta Local Council building, the Active Ageing Centre already attracts a significant number of elderly individuals who regularly take part in educational and social sessions.

Given the strong demand and the positive results observed, the decision was made to expand the programme to offer more opportunities for socialising, learning, and enjoying a varied range of activities.

The centre’s activities are organised by Active Ageing and Community Care in partnership with the Valletta Local Council. The programme promotes lifelong learning, physical and mental well-being, and social engagement.

Each session provides a safe and welcoming environment where older adults can share experiences, learn new skills, and connect with different generations.

Also present during the visit were Valletta Mayor Olaf McKay and Dr Renzo De Gabriele, Chief Executive of Active Ageing and Community Care.

#MaltaDaily