Plans for new National Archives facilities, improved infrastructure in Gozo and greater investment in digitisation form part of a new strategic vision for the National Archives of Malta, launched by the Ministry for the Arts, Culture and National Heritage.
The Strategic Vision 2035 was launched alongside a new institutional identity, "It-Tila Minsuġa" (The Woven Canvas), reflecting the National Archives' role as custodians of Malta's documentary memory and national identity, a government statement said.
The vision, developed following a year-long consultation process, establishes a direction for the development of the National Archives over the coming years, focusing on four strategic priorities, a statement said.
The first priority concerns the development of new National Archives facilities and appropriate infrastructure, including the establishment of a sustainable, secure and accessible national centre, together with improvements to the infrastructure of the Gozo Archives.
The second focuses on growth through the digital challenge, with plans to strengthen digitisation, the preservation of digital records and the responsible use of innovative technologies.
Another priority involves understanding the needs of users and developing services that meet those needs, particularly through improvements in accessibility, services and opportunities for research and learning.
The fourth priority centres on strengthening Maltese society by promoting archival heritage through education, research and community participation, the statement said.
Minister for the Arts, Culture and National Heritage Malcolm Paul Agius Galea said the National Archives were not simply a place where historical documents were stored, but represented the country's living memory.
"The National Archives are not simply a place where historical documents are kept, but they are the living memory of our country. Through this Strategic Vision 2035, we are providing a clear direction to continue investing in a modern, innovative institution that is accessible to everyone," Agius Galea said.
"As a government, we believe that investment in documentary heritage is an investment in our identity, in transparency and in future generations. This vision is also in line with the aspirations of Malta Vision 2050, for a country that protects its past while building a stronger future."
National Archivist Professor Charles Farrugia said the strategy would build on progress already achieved to further strengthen the institution.
"With Strategic Vision 2035, we are building on the progress achieved to strengthen the National Archives as a trusted, accessible and digitally advanced institution, so that our heritage remains alive, rights are strengthened and knowledge opens new horizons for everyone," Farrugia said.
"When we strengthen the protection of and access to our memory, we give future generations the foundations on which to build a better future."
The strategy will be implemented in phases through action plans and performance indicators, with the objective of ensuring that the National Archives continue to safeguard Malta's documentary heritage for future generations, the statement concluded.