In a historic decision during the 18th Session of the Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage, the Maltese Festa has officially earned the prestigious title of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO. 

This recognition, granted during the session held in Botswana, underscores the cultural significance, community values, and inclusivity embedded in the Maltese Festa.

I want to express gratitude to the Malta Band Clubs Association for its pivotal role in securing this significant recognition. I want to  acknowledge also the work of the Culture Directorate, particularly Professor Jean Paul Baldacchino, the Archdiocese of Malta, and all contributors to this remarkable achievement.

This is the third element registered for Malta, following the Ftira and Għana. The Government is committed to continuing to cherish and promote the Maltese Feast as a community celebration that fosters artistic values, inclusion, and community spirit.

The Malta Band Clubs Association spearheaded the application for the Maltese Feast, with robust support from the Maltese Curia and local feast communities. This pivotal step commenced in 2021 and was overseen by the Office for Intangible Cultural Heritage within the Culture Directorate, led by the experienced Jean Paul Baldacchino, a professor of Anthropology at the University of Malta.

In November, the Technical Committee responsible for reviewing applications for UNESCO recognition as intangible heritage recommended the inscription of the Maltese Feast on the List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. The committee praised the exemplary presentation of the application and the accompanying audio-visual production, marking it as one of the best practices for such submissions.

The recognition not only serves as a tribute to its rich cultural heritage but also underscores the pivotal role of preserving and promoting community celebrations. This acknowledgment goes beyond a mere accolade, resonating with a deeper appreciation for the cultural tapestry woven into Malta's history. It signifies a commitment to safeguarding traditions that act as vital threads connecting communities.

By celebrating these cultural milestones, Malta not only embraces its roots but also emphasizes the intrinsic value of inclusivity and a shared sense of identity. The spotlight on community celebrations extends beyond the mere preservation of customs; it becomes a catalyst for artistic expression and creativity, enriching the cultural landscape. 

This recognition reinforces the idea that these festivities are not isolated events but integral components contributing to the broader realms of arts and social cohesion. 

Ultimately, it serves as a reminder of the collective responsibility to nurture and cherish the diverse cultural expressions that shape our global heritage, fostering a sense of belonging that transcends individual experiences and resonates on a universal scale.

We will show our commitment to safeguarding Malta’s unique traditions and fostering cultural diversity. The Maltese Feast stands as a testament to the power of community, art, and inclusivity, echoing its significance beyond borders.

The UNESCO recognition not only honors Malta's cultural legacy but also places the Maltese Feast on the global stage, reinforcing its role in promoting community values, artistic expression, and inclusivity. 

This accolade serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving and celebrating cultural traditions that bring people together and contribute to the rich tapestry of global heritage

Oliver Friggieri 

This week it was a momentous day the unveiling of the monument dedicated to the late Professor Oliver Friggieri in his hometown of Floriana. During this ceremony we were reminded of the monumental literary legacy left behind by this distinguished figure.

This figurative bronze monument, which now graces the landscape of Floriana, we reflect on the immense influence Professor Friggieri had on our cultural and intellectual tapestry. The ceremony held was not just a celebration of his literary prowess but a recognition of his unwavering dedication to the betterment of our society.

The process leading to the creation of this monument began less than a month after the passing of Professor Friggieri. Heritage Malta, under the auspices of the Office of the Prime Minister, spearheaded this initiative to capture the essence of his life through artistic representation. The renowned Gozitan artist John Grima was carefully selected by an expert jury to bring this vision to life.

Professor Oliver Friggieri, a luminary in Maltese literature, was not only an author, scholar, and educator; he was a guardian of our cultural identity. 

Through his writings, he navigated the fails and flows of our nation's history, acknowledging both its triumphs and challenges. 

Like every nation, Malta is not without imperfections, but Professor Friggieri's enduring belief in the potential of the Maltese people shone through. 

He sought to elevate their consciousness, fostering a sense of pride and responsibility for the country's future.

The late Professor was not one to settle; he was driven by a conviction that Malta possessed inherent beauty and potential. His critiques, even when delivered with strength, were rooted in a genuine love for the Maltese people. His commitment to building on the positive aspects of our nation's journey was unwavering.

I would like to remark the professor's commitment to Malta above all else. Regardless of criticism, Professor Friggieri remained steadfast in his principles, transcending barriers of color and prejudice. This monument stands as a testament to the Maltese Government's dedication to preserving the memory of a man who believed in the goodness and potential of his people.

The ceremony held not only unveils a monument but symbolizes a profound artistic tribute to Oliver Friggieri's contribution to the Maltese nation. This monument serves as a reminder of the literary giant whose impact transcends time, a giant who dedicated his life not just as a poet, scholar, and educator but as a custodian of the culture that binds us all as humans.

Professor Friggieri's influence extends beyond his literary contributions; it serves as a guiding light for Malta. The verses engraved on the monument, selected from one of his cherished poems, echo through time, encapsulating the essence of his wisdom and insight.

In honouring Oliver Friggieri, we acknowledge a man who stood tall, both academically and morally. The monument stands not only as a tribute to a distinguished individual but as a representation of the collective identity of the Maltese people.  

This artistic homage to Professor Friggieri, we celebrate a life that has left an indelible mark on the cultural and intellectual landscape of Malta.