A book on the history of events leading up to the Malta Development Corporation (MDC) foundation and eventually taken over by Malta Enterprise (ME) in 2004, was launched yesterday in celebration of the fifty years of the country’s national development agency. The book entitled ‘Birth of Malta Development Corporation: A Landmark in the Island’s Economic Development’ by the Corporation’s long-time advisor Mario Brincat outlines its role in Malta’s economic progress and development.

“Looking back at the story of Malta Enterprise and the advent of industry, is to look back at the story and progression of our country”, said ME CEO Mario Galea during the book launch.

“From inception, Malta Enterprise always sought out to spark economic development by encouraging new businesses, creating jobs, and contributing to improvement in various key goals such as GDP, exports, skills development, and community development. It has played an essential part in opening up the economy to international trade and foreign investments”.

Minister for the Economy, Investment and Small Businesses Chris Cardona outlined ME’s significant role not only in the past but also today as it continues to strive to be on the ball to the highly-dynamic process of economic development - characterised by a pattern of demand shifts, new products needed, and economic trends.

“We encourage to engage in a dialogue with the private sector - which goes a long way in continually developing services and incentives that encourage new investment in new emerging technologies, the skills of employees, building-up and spreading of international standards and the spreading of ‘good practice’ in different areas, such as the environment and workplace safety”, said the Minister.

Entrepreneurship was identified as playing an influential role in the economic growth and progression of the country. A memento was handed out by ME Chairman William Wait to recognise the achievement of industrial enterprises that, based on their date of registration as limited liability companies and the length of their relationship with MDC and Malta Enterprise, are the oldest and still in operation. These companies included Cassar Enterprises, Eagle Knitwear, Foster Clark Products Ltd, Marsovin Winery, Methode Electronics, Multi Packaging Ltd, Nylon Knitting Ltd, Prime Ltd, Simonds Farsons Cisk, Trelleborg Ltd, Vernon Food Manufacturing Ltd, Vitafoam Ltd, and Yorkie Clothing.

A limited number of books have been printed with all proceeds going to Fra Diegu Home – an institute and children’s home in Ħamrun.