A free event will be held at St George's Square, Valletta, on Thursday 24 September as part of the "Show Your Face" campaign, the Ministry for Justice, Research and Innovation said in a statement. Organised by the Cancer Research and Innovation Hub Malta (CRIHM), the event marks World Cancer Research Day.
Starting at 6:00pm, the event will be a highlight of the national campaign, which aims to raise awareness about cancer research, prevention, and innovation, while bringing the work of researchers, NGOs, and organisations active in this field closer to the public.
The event will bring together researchers, NGOs, patients, families, and the general public through music and various activities, conveying a clear message of hope, solidarity, and support for cancer research. Minister for Justice, Research and Innovation Clifton Grima stated that the campaign aims to bring research closer to the public.
"Cancer should not be a subject we are afraid to discuss. We need to talk more about prevention, research, and innovation, and above all, continue to offer hope to those living with cancer and their families. Today's research can pave the way for better prevention, diagnosis, and treatment tomorrow," Grima said.
Grima explained that the government has continued to boost investment in cancer research, with over €3 million invested in 10 cancer research projects through CRIHM. In the coming days, a call worth €1.2 million for four new cancer research projects will also be launched in collaboration with Xjenza Malta.
"Our goal is for Malta not merely to benefit from discoveries made abroad, but to contribute to them. We want to provide Maltese researchers with the tools and resources to participate in this international effort," Grima said.
This investment is part of a broader strategy for Malta to continue developing high-value-added sectors-such as medical technology, science, research, and innovation-while strengthening the collaboration and participation of Maltese scientists, the Ministry said.
During the evening, the public will be invited to take part in an attempt to set a national record by forming a human cancer awareness ribbon, serving as a symbol of hope, solidarity, and support for research.
The event will also feature various local and international artists, including Jon and Jo from S Club, Bianca Muniz, Destiny, Kurt Calleja, and Sarah Bonnici. Additionally, the original song "TAMA," written specifically for the campaign, will be performed for the first time.
The square will also host NGOs and organisations working in the field of cancer, a dedicated children's area, and the CRIHM Mobile Health Unit, which will offer free health checks to the public.
Grima thanked CRIHM, the researchers, the NGOs, and all partners involved in the campaign, and invited Maltese and Gozitan families to join the event at St George's Square.
"Let's show our support for cancer research, come together to set a national record with a human cancer awareness ribbon, and send a unified message of hope and solidarity."