President urges diplomats to stand firm on peace and international law
President Myriam Spiteri Debono has called on diplomats to intensify efforts towards peace and to uphold international law amid growing global instability, warning that a world governed by force would harm all nations, particularly smaller states. Addressing members of the diplomatic corps during New Year exchanges at the President’s Palace in Valletta, she said the current international climate is marked by conflict, geopolitical tensions and disregard for human rights. Spiteri Debono underlined the responsibility of diplomats to act as bridges for dialogue at a time when international norms are under pressure. On the Middle East, she cautioned that peace “cannot be put on the back burner”, reiterating Malta’s long-standing support for a two-state solution. Turning to Ukraine, the president described Russia’s invasion as “illegal and unprovoked”, urging renewed efforts towards a just peace that respects Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. (Maltatoday)
Energy efficiency scheme extended to southern Malta homes
The government is launching a new scheme aimed at improving energy efficiency in homes across the south and parts of central Malta, with applications opening on Monday. The Irrinova Darek scheme, administered by the Building and Construction Authority, will remain open until the end of February and forms part of the government’s long-term Vision 2050 strategy. Under the scheme, eligible homeowners can receive up to 90 per cent of renovation costs, capped at €15,000, for interventions such as double-glazed windows, roof insulation and energy-efficient heating or cooling systems. Support also extends to skylights, shading devices and water heaters, while solar panels are co-financed at 50 per cent. Income thresholds determine the level of support, with lower-income households receiving higher grants. The scheme has previously been rolled out in the inner harbour and northern regions, attracting strong uptake. (Times of Malta)
Youth Council criticises licence-surrender scheme as short-sighted
The Maltese National Youth Council has criticised a new government scheme offering young people up to €25,000 over five years in exchange for surrendering their driving licence, arguing that it fails to address Malta’s transport challenges. The scheme targets individuals aged between 18 and 30 and aims to reduce traffic congestion and promote alternative mobility. In a statement, the council questioned the measure’s effectiveness, noting that a €5 million annual budget would temporarily remove only around 1,000 drivers from the road over the scheme’s duration. It argued that this impact is negligible when compared with the number of new vehicle licences issued each week. The Youth Council urged the government to prioritise long-term investment in reliable public transport and infrastructure rather than incentives it believes do little to tackle Malta’s structural dependence on private cars. (The Malta Independent)
