The Malta FA this week approved the implementation of a protocol to be used when discriminatory behaviour is observed in local football matches.

Among other things, match officials will have the power to suspend or even stop matches altogether should a crowd use racist behaviour and continue after warnings are made.

Malta FA President Bjorn Vassallo said that discriminatory incidents are unfortunately increasing in general and football is only another means in this regard. "Football should not be misused by anyone projecting any discriminatory message. The decision to empower referees to act against racism and to follow a procedure which could result in the suspension or even abandonment of a football match, is a strong sign that the Malta FA, its clubs and members will do whatever is in their control to prevent such behaviour.”

The news that the Malta FA is granting referees such power sends a strong message, that racism is absolutely not acceptable and has no place in football, just like it has no place in any other sport or in society in general.

This comes as racism in football in Malta has been hoighlighted as a problem over the past years. The most recent one that made headlines was earlier this month. The police are currently investigating an incident where racial insults were allegedly hurled at a Santa Lucia goalkeeper Julani Archibald from a person in the crowd.

Whenever an article about migration is published, some people opt to make racist comments on the social media.

This is a situation that truly must stop. It is absolutely unacceptable. We have seen how racism effects a society. Lest we forget how Lassana Cisse was killed.

Seeing organisations like the Malta FA take such a stand is to be praised. It should have been done earlier, but nevertheless, it is most welcome. This move will hopefully set an example and help send the message that there is no room for racism in this country.

In truth, a lot more needs to be done to combat racism in the country as a whole. More educational campaigns are needed. In addition, the government must find ways to improve integration.

Many people from different nations live in Malta. Are we doing enough to welcome them into our community, or are we creating a sense of segregation? If we are hesitant to welcome them into our society, then how can they truly feel a part of it? That segregation creates a lot more problems, can fuel hatred and can lead to distrust between communities.

If communities come together, we can learn a lot from each other.