I am a proud Maltese. 

The fundamental question we ought to reflect upon is: what truly defines us as Maltese? What distinguishes me and my fellow Maltese? Is it the Maltese ID card, bearing the letter "M" or "G," or perhaps the Maltese passport, proudly showcasing the national emblem? Could it be a document or a piece of paper encapsulating our Maltese essence? Or does it extend beyond these tangible elements?

As Maltese individuals, we possess a unique culture that sets us apart and underscores our distinctiveness among other nations and people.  Our cultural heritage is profoundly enriched, shaped by various civilizations that have influenced and contributed to our local identity. A distinctive feature of our culture lies in our language – the Maltese language – a fascinating blend of Semitic and Romance languages. We address our mothers with a Semitic word  - 'omm,' while our fathers are referred to with a Romance word - 'missier.'

It is our collective responsibility to fortify, promote, and contribute to the continuous evolution of our culture. Strengthening our cultural roots not only benefits our nation but also ensures the well-being of the Maltese people. Culture forms the bedrock, the cornerstone, and the essence of our collective identity as a united Maltese and Gozitan people.

In answering the question of who I am, I proudly assert that I am Maltese. My Maltese identity is rooted in the rich tapestry of our culture, which defines and shapes me.

Despite the challenges posed by a dynamically changing world, we have worked tirelessly throughout the year to bolster the cultural sector. Each passing day has been dedicated to maximizing our efforts, yielding substantial outcomes. The year 2023 stands out as another year marked by cultural triumphs.

A significant achievement is the recognition of the Maltese Festa as an Intangible Cultural Heritage by UNESCO, a milestone in our nation's history. This acknowledgment is a testament to the dedicated volunteers wholeheartedly committed to the Maltese festa. I celebrate the values of community, the promotion of the arts, and the inclusivity that the Maltese festival brings.

To sustain the momentum of our Maltese festa, we have allocated half a million Euros in targeted financial assistance to musical band clubs and those engaged in pyrotechnics who contribute voluntarily. In the upcoming year, we commit to allocating another half a million Euros, reaffirming our commitment to fortify these crucial cultural elements.

Furthermore, we intervened decisively to safeguard 11 music societies facing severe financial challenges by entering into promises of sale with the respective owners. With regards to the processes concerning two of these societies – the Antoine de Paule Musical Society and the Stella Maris Musical Society – we successfully completed their rescue.

This decisive intervention underscores the government's alignment with Band Clubs, paving the way for these societies to embark on a new lease in favour of Arts Council (Malta) within the Ministry. Building on past successes, we are investing in a brighter future for the Maltese Festa.

The year 2023 has witnessed a flourishing creative scene in the arts and culture domains. The number of creatives choosing to undertake the professional path in this sector has substantially increased, reflecting a positive trend from the previous year. This growth is not coincidental.

In 2023, we introduced a favorable tax rate for creatives – a rate of 7.5% linked to activities aimed at cultural purposes. Simultaneously, we expanded financial assistance schemes for artists and creatives, encompassing various aspects of creative work. The current year saw the introduction of 9 schemes, bringing the total up to 17.

We are also working towards creating more spaces and cultural infrastructure where artists can showcase their talents. This year marked the completion of the renovation project at the Navarra Priory within the Manoel Theatre, with an investment of €1.7 million. This project transformed the Isouard Hall into a conference space and meeting venue.

On a grander scale, the MICAS project is underway, presenting over twelve acres of art in Floriana to the public. This initiative not only caters to contemporary Maltese artists but also attracts international talent. The year 2023 saw the inaugural on-site artistic exhibition, and plans are in place to establish galleries on four levels in the coming year, creating a stunning attraction for both local and international artists.

The year 2023 has also been a year of reinforcing our cultural heritage. Challenges persist, criticisms endure, yet there is no denying the impressive volume of work undertaken.

One notable achievement is the restoration scheme for sites of historical value within our communities, identified by Local Councils. In the eight years since its inception, we have selected forty-four restoration projects in twenty-eight different localities. The momentum continued robustly in the current year.

In 2023, efforts continued on the restoration of the Presidential Palace, with an investment exceeding €30 million, a portion of which originates from European funds. The investment aims to preserve this historic gem of immeasurable value.

Work also persisted on the Maritime Museum in Birgu. Villa Portelli, located in Kalkara, has been entrusted to us, and efforts to make the building more accessible to the public have commenced. Work is ongoing on the renovation and consolidation of Fort Delimara, enhancing accessibility to significant parts of the fort.

Furthermore, restoration efforts have continued on Villa Guardamangia, the only residence outside the United Kingdom where Queen Elizabeth II resided. European funds have been applied for the efficient and swift procedure of the project.

Notable milestones include the inauguration of the first Archaeological Park in Deep Sea in Xlendi, Gozo. Restoration projects on city walls, particularly the Cottonera Lines and Santa Margherita Lines within Cottonera, commenced for the first time in the history of our country. Significant progress was made in the restoration of the Bastion and the Gate of Notre Dame, components of the Margherita Lines.

Additionally, work proceeded on the restoration of the Marina Bastion within Valletta, while ongoing work continued on the medieval walls on the Greek Gate in Mdina. Restoration efforts on the Victoria Lines in the Għargħur areas also continued. Work commenced on the restoration of the Bastion of St Nicholas.

The Church of the Jesuits in Valletta, renowned for its University graduations, underwent extensive restoration work on facades and roofs. Following the completion of the restoration of the two oratories, efforts are now focused on restoring the inner part of this Church, with a new investment of EUR 4.5 million.

The restoration project of the facades of the Church of Jesus in Valletta, which was progressing well, continued after completing the restoration of Triq Sant'Ursola. Restoration work also started on the main facade of St John Street. Efforts have commenced for the restoration of the Chapel of the Annunciation, also known as the Salib ta’ l-Għolja, a special attraction for the Maltese in Siġġiewi.

Furthermore, work is underway for the restoration of the facade of the Holy Trinity Parish Church in Marsa and the facade of the Church of St. Paul in Cospicua.  Also restoration work will start of Torri Vendome in Marsaxlokk and the fourth facade of the Zejtun Church.

Looking ahead, we are committed to continuing this trajectory of cultural enrichment and heritage preservation. Our focus remains on fostering a sense of pride in our Maltese identity, anchored in the richness of our culture and history. The journey is ongoing, and we are resolute in our dedication to building a cultural legacy that transcends generations.

The year 2023 has been a testament to the resilience, dedication, and cultural vibrancy of the Maltese people. As we step into the future, let us carry forward the torch of our cultural heritage, ensuring that the spirit of Malta continues to shine brightly on the global stage. Together, as one united Maltese and Gozitan community, we forge ahead into a future where our culture remains an enduring source of strength, unity, and inspiration.