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Articles by Johnathan Cilia
How Cyrus Engerer Invested In Malta's Progressive Future
An elected politician has a choice when it comes to using funds to spread their message. Oftentimes, we see handouts, faces on mugs and maybe a few grocery items here or there. Cyrus Engerer instead sponsored 100 Maltese people from all walks of life to visit Europe’s political centres in Brussels and Strasbourg and share their ideas, learning from their peers – and maybe even influencing policy.
Abortion, Environment, Rule Of Law... And He's Not Done Fighting
Few Maltese MEPs have used their voting powers as historically as Sliema’s Cyrus Engerer. After taking his seat as MEP with the Socialist and Democrats (S&D) in November 2020, Engerer quickly put his principles into practice, participating in missions and voting in ways that will go down in Malta’s European political history for their pioneering nature.
Angelcrypt Announce 10-Date European Tour And New Single 'Inspired By Malta's Courage'
Maltese melodic death metal veterans Angelcrypt are set to embark on a 10-day European tour to celebrate their newest single, Legacy of Valour – alongside a local gig to boot. The tour will take them to Poland, Bulgaria, Hungary, Slovakia, Czech Republic, Romania, and Austria. And the following month, the band will be performing at the Garage in Ħaz-Żebbuġ, Malta, where they will be supported by the Portuguese symphonic death metal band Godiva and the Maltese black metal outfit Saħħar.
Gaia Cauchi Releases 'Deeply Personal' Message To Herself On Valentine's Day
Maltese starlet Gaia Cauchi just released an emotionally charged and personal tribute to her younger self after growing up in the music industry and overcoming the challenges she faced. Released on Valentine’s Day, ‘Sincerely, You’ unfolds as a poignant narrative, delving into the artist’s personal experiences of navigating the music industry, particularly the trials and tribulations faced during a challenging childhood.
Ħamrun Hairdresser Arrested Mid-Haircut: From Dream Salon Owner To Detention Centre Detainee
Kusi Dismark was at work at his store, the Best Friend Salon (Adamfo Pa in Twi) in Ħamrun’s High Street, when police entered and arrested him mid-haircut, to the shock of his clients. Kusi was taken into custody at Safi Detention Centre pending deportation, leaving the doors of his salon wide open as its owner left in handcuffs. The thing is, technically, Kusi has been living in Malta illegally for 13 years.
Can You Help Save Them? Ahead Of Netanyahu's Rafah Invasion, Palestinian Family Launches Desperate GoFundMe
All eyes are on Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, and whether he can be convinced to not move forward with his latest military attack – an invasion of the city of Rafah, with an estimated 1.3 million civilians standing in his way. As the horrors of the Gaza incursion continue following the 7th October attacks, one man caught in the middle of it all can only think of one thing: how to save his family.
Watch: Maltese Taekwando Master Wins Gold In Belgium With Some Serious Headshots
Malta’s very own Gianluca Barbara continues his winning streak with a second consecutive gold medal triumph while representing the Iron Taekwondo League internationally. The martial arts master participated in the Open de Liege 2024 in Belgium, featuring 700 athletes, marking the start of a busy competitive season. Fergeson Galea, Malta’s -55kg junior national champion, competed alongside coach Gianluca in the -80kg Masters Category, marking their second appearance in Belgium.
Watch: 'I Was Very Naive'
Malta’s former cannabis chief has opened up for the first time publicly about her sacking – and how hurt she was by the “personal attacks” she faced after she lost her job. Mariella Dimech, Malta’s first chief of the newly set up Authority for the Responsible Use for Cannabis, was sacked 10 months into her job amidst accusations of little to no movement in the new sector.
Parents Slam Alleged Abuse
One year after police started investigating alleged physical at a Ħamrun resource school, worried Maltese parents of severely disabled children are calling out a lack of trained staff and resources for their children. The state-run Guardian Angel Secondary Education Resource Centre is facing allegations that at least three educators working there physically abused disabled children out of their parents’ sight.
Broken Palestinian Talat Begs Malta For Help Moments After Narrow Escape From Death
For Talat Al Hasayna and his family, death has never been closer. After losing over 80 family members during Israeli military incursions into Gaza, Palestine, causing him to flee as a refugee into the desert, the former businessman’s life has only gotten harder. “We went through another black night last night,” Talat told Lovin Malta.
Here's How To Apply To Become A Member Of A Maltese Cannabis Club Now That It's Legal
Malta’s long-awaited, pioneering cannabis harm reduction association system has officially launched. After years of delays and repeated setbacks – with former Authority for the Responsible Use of Cannabis head Mariella Dimech even publicly saying they’d be “up and running” by 2022 – the first two clubs have opened their doors under the watchful eye of current ARUC chief Leonid McKay.
Watch: Rat-tled Residents - Balluta Bay Plagued By Persistent Rodent Visits
Residents of St Julian’s Balluta Bay continue to express dismay over the ongoing rat infestation plaguing the streets, despite months of complaints and appeals for intervention. “I’d like to know what action the council is taking to exterminate this colony… apparently there are hundreds,” one local resident said, sharing footage of a number of rats frolicking near some rubbish bags in the busy locale.
Visa Scam Unveiled: Indian Job Seekers Exploited In Malta Employment Scheme
An Indian man is under investigation over promising lucrative jobs in what is believed to be a fraudulent scheme that left hopeful workers high and dry. Anil Kumar Ghanta, an apparent employment agent, is under investigation for alleged fraud related to promising lucrative jobs across the Maltese Islands.
Roderick Cassar Asks For Femicide Charge To Be Dropped As He Cannot Use 'Crime Of Passion' Argument
Accused murderer Roderick Cassar is requesting that the proceedings in the Magistrates’ Court, where he is charged with the murder of his wife Bernice Cassar née Cilia be suspended until the Constitutional Court decides on his request not to be charged with femicide. Cassar is accused of shooting his wife with a firearm on 22nd November, 2022, in Ħal Kirkop. He has pleaded not guilty to this murder. Among the charges against him is that of femicide.
Close-Range Shotgun Attack Shocks Malta's Animal Welfare Community
Malta’s animal community has been left stunned and deeply disturbed by the distressing case of Bobby, a Pharaoh Hound/Fox Terrier mix, who was discovered to have sustained severe injuries from a close-range shotgun. Bobby’s ordeal began when he was found injured and suffering, initially believed to be the result of a road accident or a dog attack.
Maltese Metal Band Align The Tide To Open For Suicide Silence In London
One of Malta’s hottest metal bands is set to open for modern Deathcore legends Suicide Silence at a one-off gig in London. “We are completely over the moon with this one!” Align the Tide told Lovin Malta ahead of the big show, being held at The Dome, London, on 12th February. “Opening for such a band like Suicide Silence is a massive achievement for us as they’re one of the greats in the scene and hopefully it’ll open new doors as we continue our journey.
Robert Abela - This Palestinian Family Is Dying In Gaza And Desperately Needs Your Help
Prime Minister Robert Abela – if there was ever a matter of life and death where you could save a vulnerable family, it is now. Talat Al Hasayna, a respected construction businessmen whose family had millions in assets, has been destroyed. With dozens of his family killed – including his wife, children and father – is military strikes in November, Talat is no longer living his life, but living in a tent in a dessert, fearful of the next strikes.
Talat Al Hasayna's Heart-Wrenching Life In Gaza After His Family Was Wiped Out
In an exclusive interview with Lovin Malta, Talat Al Hasayna, a former wealthy Palestinian businessman whose life unraveled in the wake of the Gaza conflict, shares the heart-wrenching details of the tragedy that befell his family, his plea for humanitarian refuge in Malta, and the shattered dreams left in the aftermath. This is Talat’s story, as told to Johnathan Cilia. The internet connection in Gaza is spotty, making it difficult to keep a proper connection for a video call with Talat steady.
Watch: This Insta Meme Page Is Exposing The Realities Of Indian Workers In Malta
Ever wanted to know what it’s really like living as a third country national in Malta? Well you’re in luck. @malta_malayalee_official’s Instagram account is hilariously and heartbreakingly taking on the lived experiences of Indian and foreign workers – particularly Malayalis, who are native to people of Kerala and speak Malayalam, the official language of the state.
Homeless Man Steals €150 From St Paul's Bay Restaurant's Tip Jar
A 27-year-old Indian national has admitted to swiping around €150 from a tip jar inside a restaurant in St. Paul’s Bay. Prosecutors say that the police identified and arrested the accused, who was wearing a black jacket and a cap when he was found in St. Paul’s Square in Ħamrun. The inspector added that the accused, who has a drug addiction, admitted to the theft while in police custody. Prosecutors mentioned that the accused has various social issues and has been homeless for some time.
Undercover Police Officer Dressed As Postman Arrests Mellieħa Resident Over 1kg Cannabis Delivery
A man has been arrested after an undercover operation led to the find of around 1kg of weed. Maltese police arrested 26-year-old Mladen Bjelica, from Serbia, residing in Mellieħa, after he signed for a delivered package containing two half-kilogram packets of cannabis. The prosecution explained how an officer, posing as a customs officer, delivered the package to the accused at his residence. Bjelica signed for the package, whereupon he was apprehended.
Couple Arrested Trying To Flee Malta With Three-Year-Old Child
A Nigerian couple appeared in court on charges related to illegal migration after being apprehended at the airport while attempting to leave Malta for Italy with their three-year-old daughter. Standing before Magistrate Victor Axiak, the 29-year-old woman and her 31-year-old partner were accused of possession and use of forged passports and providing false statements to migration authorities.
Six Years Prison For Man Who Tried To Burn Down Ex's Msida Home
A 35-year-old man has been sentenced to six and a half years in prison after admitting to setting fire to the Msida residence where his ex-partner lived. Boris Kotsev, a Bulgarian citizen, was accused of setting fire to the residence where his ex-partner resided between the 12th and 13th of November 2022. Police investigations, supported by CCTV footage, led to the conviction of the accused.
Maltese Twins Honour Late Father With Heartfelt Tribute 'L-Isbaħ Stilla' After Ta' Qali Tragedy
Two Maltese twin sisters have unveiled their heartfelt tribute to their beloved father who tragically lost his life while working near the Ta’ Qali National Park project. Adrian, a 40-year-old resident of Ħal Għargħur, was a father of four – and Celine and Shaian Muscat’s “L-Isbaħ Stilla” is an emotional tribute to the man who helped them become the women they are. The siblings, known as the Adria Twins, found solace in music following this tragedy.
Traditional Japanese Chef Crafts Unique Sushi Experience With 'Fantastic' Maltese Fish
When it comes to raw Maltese fish, traditional Japanese sushi chef Taji is absolutely in love – just don’t serve it “Maltese-sushi” style to him, though. “Oh, your fish is fantastic quality,” Chef Taji told Lovin Malta as he prepared a mini feast using mainly local fish. “But what I’m seeing in Maltese sushi is adding a lot of flavours on top of each other…it’s a different type of sushi,” he said diplomatically.
Tense Warning That Escalated To Rabat Murder Revealed
The moments and events leading up to the murder of Eric Borg by suspect Noel Azzopardi on New Year’s Day have been revealed as investigations into the homicide indicate a paranoid man who took matters into his own hands, with fatal consequences. An autopsy carried out on 2nd January confirmed that the victim, Borg, died as a result of two gunshot wounds, both fired from close proximity, to his back and to the right side of his body.
Malta Tax Department Warns Of Fraudulent Text Messages Threatening 'Debt Seizures' Against Payments
The Malta Tax and Customs Administration has issued a warning over fake text messages targeting Maltese numbers demanding hundreds in payment or a “seizure will be carried out”. “The Commissioner for Tax and Customs warns that fraudulent SMSs are being circulated through which the receiver is being asked to pay a debt of €960.22 immediately as otherwise a seizure will be carried out on 9th January, 2024,” a spokesperson told Lovin Malta.
The Reality Of Malta's Event Security System Unveiled
Another bouncer beating in Paceville has gone viral, with footage of 25-year-old Idriss Ahmed Adem laid out on the ground as a group of bouncers kick him. The island’s chaotic party mecca seems to see these incidents on the regular, with big, foreign bouncers kicking the heads of people laid out on the floor, leading to widespread condemnation every time there’s a violent incident.
Malta Community Chest Fund 'In Contact' With Soldier Mifsud's Family To Identify What Help They Need
The Malta Community Chest Fund has confirmed it is in contact with the family of Shawn Mifsud, the Maltese soldier who faced four amputations on his limbs following sepsis shock. “Contrary to the impression given on social media, the MCCF has already approached the Mifsud family to identify the kind of help that can be provided to Mr Mifsud following the complications due to an infection. The MCCF and the Mifsud family are in contact on the matter,” the organisation said.
Six Public/National Holidays Fall On Weekends Across Malta's 2024 Calendar
No less than six public or national holidays will occur on a Saturday or Sunday throughout 2024 – which means employers will need to add on extra days of leave to make up for the lost days. Though New Year’s Day fell on a Monday this year, some major holidays will occur over a weekend. The Feast of St Paul’s Shipwreck (10th February), Feast of St Peter and St Paul (29th June) and Independence Day (21st September) all occur on a Saturday.
One-Way Mosta: Residents Wake Up To New Maze-Like Town
Mosta’s been at the centre of controversy for months now, but the town’s latest reversal has left residents stuck, sometimes quite literally. “Can someone explain the chaos in Mosta this morning?” one resident asked, sharing a number of images of freshly-installed One Way Signs. “Five one ways in one day, how can it be? You need to spend thirty minutes driving in circles so that maybe you finally figure it out,” he continued. And many others quickly pointed out that they fully agreed.
Overcoming Sepsis Tragedy: Maltese Family Aims For €200,000 For New Beginnings
It only took a few hours for Shawn Mifsud’s entire life to be turned upside down. But the immense challenges were only beginning for the 37-year-old army soldier, husband, and father of two daughters. After catching a virus that turned into severe sepsis, Shawn had to have both arms and both legs amputated due to the damage caused by the shock.
Three More Cannabis Association Licenses Approved In Malta As First Harm Reduction Training Sessions Held
Three more licences to Cannabis Harm Reduction Associations were issued over the last few weeks, bringing the total up to five. The three new associations are named: Sprawt, Northern Lights, and NEGE. They join KDD Society and Ta’ Zelli, the first two associations to be approved. The Authority reminds prospective members that only associations listed on its website may cultivate and distribute cannabis to their members.
Over 200 Domestic Abuse Cases Reported To Maltese Agency Since June This Year
Since June, no less than 227 cases have been reported to a national domestic violence agency established to monitor and assess information to mitigate the risk for domestic violence victims and enhance public safety. The ongoing campaign against domestic violence, themed ‘Beat the Silence,’ released these statistics. Of the 219 cases referred to MARAM (Multi-Agency Risk Assessment Meeting), 18 were men and 207 were women, primarily involving violence within relationships, TVM reported.
Maltese Parents' Free Lunch Program In Memory Of Late Child Recognised For Incredible Social Impact
A Maltese couple who continue to give back to society after personal tragedy have been recognised for their incredible work. Antoine and Solange Magri, who run the Fifteen37 Cafe’, have developed a positive reputation after providing free lunch regularly to the children, parents and staff at the Rainbow Ward in Mater Dei Hospital. And last night, they were recognised during the Malta Business Awards.
New 'Air Malta' Airline To Start Selling Tickets This Monday
Starting from Monday, December 4th, the newly established national airline of Malta will commence the sale of flight tickets. KM Malta Airlines Limited, Air Malta’s replacement airline, declared in a statement that the Directorate for Civil Aviation has granted the license for the new airline, paving the way for its imminent operations in the coming weeks.
€10,000 Given To Maltese Small States Gold Medal Winners As Part Of Half Million Euro In Funds
Maltese athletes who won medals in the Small States Games will be receiving over €500,000 in funds, with thousands going to individual athletes. The gold medal winners in these games, held in May, were awarded €10,000 each, with the athletes and sportspeople sharing this amount among themselves if they participated as a team. Monetary gifts were also given to those who won bronze and silver medals. A total sum of €575,300 was distributed among 97 winners in these three medal categories.
Sea Level Rise Should Not Lead To Nations Losing Their Rights, Miriam Dalli Urges At COP28
Environment Minister Miriam Dalli explained Malta’s relentless commitment to voice the concerns of small island and coastal states impacted by sea level rise threats during the Ministerial Meeting of the Coalition on Addressing Sea-level Rise and its Existential Threats (C-SET), on the opening day of COP28, the United Nations Climate Change Conference in Dubai.
Malta 'Punching Far Above Our Weight,' Abela Tells Global Leaders At COP28
Addressing the COP28 summit in Dubai, Prime Minister Robert Abela urged global leaders to unite against the imminent threat of climate change. Saying the island just faced one of the toughest summers ever, he noted that just because the island was so small “does not mean we should do less”.
Mapping Abuse: New Interactive Art Exhibition Empowers Survivors To Pinpoint Where They Were Harassed
A new interactive exhibition aimed at mapping out locations and instances of sexual harassment across the Maltese Islands is inviting anyone to take part in this eye-opening art piece. The piece, created by Pia Micallef, is a political art installation intended to “invoke thought and discussion among exhibition viewers… to help viewers better conceptualise the widespread nature of sexual harassment in Maltese Islands”.
Fatal Coach Incident Claims Woman's Life, Injures Two Others
One woman has died and two others have been injured in an incident involving a coach in Ħal Far. The woman is believed to have lost her life followed an incident where a coach struck a number of elderly people, ONE News reported, coming out from a nearby event held in Villa Blanche. Civil Protection officers are currently undertaking a “complex operation” following the incident. The woman was certified dead on scene.
Bright Lights Decorate Replacement Mosta Pjazza Trees Meant For Birds To Rest On
In the latest of a series of bizarre decision regarding Mosta’s centre, replacement trees placed just near the Mosta Dome as a location for birds to rest on have now been completely covered in bright holiday lights. And, needless to say, Maltese social media was having none of it. “If I ever doubted whether the mayor of Mosta Local Council was a fool, I can now confirm that he is,” Birdlife CEO Mark Sultana said.
Guest Post: Is It Just A Joke? - How Certain Behaviour Encourages A Culture Of Violence In Malta
Most of us have experienced violence in some shape or form. It is experienced amongst men, women, non-binary persons, and children, and crosses socio-economic, racial, and ethnic lines. One can even say that forms of violence are as old as life itself, such as hunting for food to ensure survival. Yet whilst experiences of violence are universal, it affects certain groups disproportionately.
Maltese Company Premier Capital Opens 100th McDonalds Outlet In Romania
A Maltese company has celebrated a milestone after opening their 100th McDonald’s outlet in Romania. Premier Capital, which operates 182 McDonald’s restaurants across six countries in Europe, opened its 100th outlet, in Drobeta-Turnu Severin. It is their 10th outlet opened in Romania this year alone – with at least three more set to open by the end of the year. “The opening of the 100th restaurant in Romania is a significant chapter in our history in the Romanian market.
'Gordon Ramsay And Fred Will Visit My New Restaurant In Mercury Tower At Some Point'
Celebrity chef Gino D’Acampo’s famed friends will be visiting the island to experience the Italian’s new restaurant once it opens in April. “At some point he’s going to come here with Fred, you know we go around,” D’Acampo told Lovin Malta during an interview in Mercury Tower unveiling three of his new outlets – Gino D’Acampo Restaurant, Cabana Restaurant and Radio Bar.
Maltese Mother Breaks Down Why Teachers' Strike Is So Crucial
A Maltese mother has taken to social media ahead of a planned educators’ strike on Monday to explain why teachers locally are facing serious issues – and they can’t be ignored anymore. “Many teachers have lost their passion and motivation and a lot of parents are agreeing with this, not just these few weeks but all year.They deserve better, we need them, our future needs them,” Sabrina Mallia, who works with Lovin Malta, said online.
97 Migrants, Including Two Women, One Pregnant, And Two Children, Rescued By AFM In Maltese Waters
At least 97 migrants were rescued by the Armed Forces of Malta late Monday night and brought to the island early this morning. The migrants were rescued during a Search and Rescue Operation in Maltese waters. The AFM patrol boat P61 brought the migrants to Hay Wharf in Floriana this morning at 6:40am. After disembarking, immigration police took custody of the migrants, who entered police buses and were taken to the Marsa Open Centre.
Storm Incoming: Maltese Weather Pages Point Towards Southwestern Rain Very Soon
Indications show that stormy weather is set to hit the Maltese Islands today, with weather reports showing clouds approaching from the Southwestern front. It-Temp Madwarna shared images of the weather heading towards the islands, with clouds just about to hit the northern part of Gozo as well as the Western side of Malta. The page Aġġornament Tat-Temp also shared a photo from Dingli by Matthew Buhagiar showing the extent of the cloudy weather.
Artist Gabriel Buttigieg And Curator Lisa Gwen Team Up For 'Punch In The Stomach' Exhibition
One of Malta’s most prolific young artists is back with another eye-catching and very on-brand exhibition after teaming up with one of the island’s top curators. Gabriel Buttigieg, fresh from his latest artistic residency abroad, has teamed up with Lisa Gwen for Narratives for Postmodern Love – and it’s shaping up to be his biggest solo exhibition to date. “In my art, I have always sought one thing, and one thing only. A punch in the stomach. A soul.
Watch: Police Not The Target, Mosta Council Is, Callus Stresses After Release From Sudden Arrest
Moviment Graffitti’s Andre Callus has pledged to remain fighting for trees under attack in Mosta after being arrested this afternoon in a scene that’s been widely shared on social media. “The trees are still here today, and we need to do everything we can to save them – and we will be doing our best to make sure these trees remain here,” Callus told Lovin Malta shortly after being arrested near the Mosta Dome.
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