President of Malta George Vella reiterated his Presidency’s commitment to the correct use of the Maltese language. Addressing the annual award ceremony of ‘Ġieħ l-Akkademja tal-Malti’ Midalja tad-Deheb (Gold Medal), held at San Anton Palace under his and Mrs Vella’s patronage, the President stressed that, “With every misplacement, with every unwanted mark or stain, we would be destroying the quintessential seal of what makes us Maltese - the language of our country”.

The President congratulated this year’s Midalja tad-Deheb winner author Lina Brockdorff and praised her for devoting her life to the Maltese language, not only in her writings but also in her work in broadcasting and as President of Għaqda Letterarja Maltija. He also described her as a wonderful example of active ageing, with the last three publications being added to the long collection under her name only a few weeks ago.

The President also praised L-Akkademja tal-Malti for recognising every year the contribution of individuals who, through their pen, and often also through their deeds, have enriched Maltese literature and knowledge of the Maltese language. “Our country needs to make use of every talent it has because this is the true resource of the country that, now much more than ever, must spur, inspire, and light the way towards a new understanding of who we are, of all that unites us together, and of what keeps us together so that in the future we continue to protect our identity,” said the President.

Due to the circumstances created by the COVID-19 pandemic, the medal was received on behalf of Ms Brockdorff by her nephew Chris Mercieca.