The Malta Hotels and Restaurants Association (MHRA) said Saturday it welcomed the clear political direction towards stronger enforcement against anti-social behaviour. The strengthening of on-the-spot fines is a positive step that sends the right message.

The next step must now be comprehensive legislative reform, MHRA said.

Enforcement is only as effective as the legislation behind it. Malta now needs laws that are clear, practical and enforceable, providing every enforcement authority with well-defined powers and responsibilities. This will enable the Malta Police Force, the Malta Tourism Authority (MTA) and other competent authorities to act effectively within their respective remits, make better use of public resources and strengthen outcomes before the courts.

MHRA stands firmly behind all enforcement authorities. They should not be expected to operate within legislation that is fragmented, ambiguous or difficult to enforce. Clear legislation is the foundation of effective enforcement.

The Association believes three areas require urgent attention:

Late-night alcohol sales must be properly regulated. Convenience stores and bottle shops provide an important community service but should not operate as unrestricted suppliers of cheap alcohol throughout the night. The law must distinguish between legitimate retail activity and practices that fuel anti-social behaviour;

Noise legislation must establish clear, objective and enforceable standards, including measurable decibel limits where appropriate. Residents, businesses and visitors deserve certainty, while enforcement authorities require practical legal tools rather than subjective interpretation;

The current cannabis legislation should be reviewed to ensure it achieves its intended objectives without compromising effective enforcement or sending the wrong message that Malta is permissive towards drug use. MHRA maintains a zero-tolerance position on drugs and drug-related criminality. The law must equip enforcement authorities with clear legal powers while allowing resources to focus on protecting communities, visitors and public order.

Effective enforcement also requires strong collaboration between Government, enforcement authorities, local councils and the private sector. Destination management is a shared responsibility built on partnership, coordination and information-sharing.

MHRA reiterated its commitment to work constructively with Government, enforcement authorities and the private sector to support legislative reform and destination management policies that strengthen Malta's reputation as a safe, orderly and high-quality tourism destination.