Parliamentary secretary Keith Azzopardi Tanti has outlined the key initiatives within Malta's 2025 Budget, themed Naħdmu lejn pajjiż ta' kwalità (Working towards a nation of quality). This budget emphasises significant investments in youth empowerment, research and innovation, aimed at addressing future challenges while positioning Malta as a competitive player in technological advancement. The measures announced are designed to support young Maltese in various domains such as education, health and homeownership.
A major highlight of the budget is a groundbreaking initiative in quantum computing, set to commence next year. This ambitious project, supported by partnerships with tech giants such as IBM, Amazon and Airbus, aims to strengthen Malta's research ecosystem and enhance its digital sector. Furthermore, funding for Xjenza Malta's Fusion programme will increase to €6.3m, enabling collaboration among public, academic and private entities on national priorities in health, sustainable resources, aviation and technology.
For the first time, Malta's Space Sector will receive dedicated funding, with the PECS programme in partnership with the European Space Agency seeing an increase to €1.5m. An additional €400,000 will be allocated to implement Malta's National Space Strategy (2022-2027). The government plans to introduce a legal framework to establish jurisdiction over space activities, paving the way for commercial ventures and the application of satellite data in sectors like environmental monitoring and agriculture.
The budget also emphasises transformative healthcare solutions, particularly through the Cancer Research and Innovation Hub Malta (CRIHM), which focuses on advancing cancer prevention and treatment research. The funding for CRIHM will double to €1.6m next year, facilitating collaboration between medical professionals, AI specialists and digital technology innovators to enhance cancer care. This initiative is part of Malta's strategy to become a leader in scientific advancement and community-focused health innovation, with plans to establish the first accredited Cancer Mission Hub in Europe.
Education and community support are central to the budget, with over 100 schools set to undergo modernisation over the next 13 years, emphasising energy efficiency and sustainability. The Foundation for Information Technology Accessibility (FITA) will receive a substantial budget increase to €1.6m, tripling previous funding, to enhance support services for individuals with disabilities.
A core focus of the budget is youth empowerment, particularly in education, health and financial stability. The government has expanded the First-time Buyers' scheme, benefiting nearly 4,900 young applicants by providing increased grants and reduced stamp duty. This initiative aims to tackle housing affordability, which remains a significant challenge for Maltese youth. Additionally, the government will cover the first six months of gym memberships for individuals born between 2005 and 2007 as part of a wellness initiative promoting lifelong health.
Financial support for youth is further strengthened through adjustments to the cost-of-living allowance and increased educational stipends, including book grants and parental allowances for post-secondary students. The budget also allocates resources for the European Digital Innovation Hub (DiHubMT), supporting young tech entrepreneurs with mentorship and high-performance computing resources, thus nurturing innovation in Malta's digital economy.
The gaming sector, including areas like computer gaming, eSports and immersive technologies, will receive government support, with provisions for eSports athlete visas to attract international talent and promote cultural exchange. Aġenzija Żgħażagħ plays a crucial role in the youth empowerment strategy, with a 40% funding increase in Budget 2025. This increase supports initiatives like the Boost scheme, which funds youth organisations and cultural associations, enabling broader activities and engagement for over 60,500 young participants.
Mental health is prioritised with initiatives providing online counselling and workshops in schools, ensuring accessible support for youth. Furthermore, Malta will host two significant youth conferences next year under its Presidency of the Council of Europe. The European Youth Work Convention and a Ministerial Conference for youth ministers will foster discussions on youth policies, reinforcing Malta's commitment to inclusive and engaged youth-oriented policies on both national and international levels.
In summary, Budget 2025 reflects Malta's commitment to building a resilient future, enhancing its global standing in research and innovation, and fostering an inclusive environment for its youth. Through strategic investments across various sectors, the government reaffirms its dedication to a prosperous Malta, ready to embrace future challenges and opportunities.