Issue link: https://maltatoday.uberflip.com/i/1538811
LOCAL COUNCILS' PRECIOUS ROLE THIS IS A PAID COLLABORATION THE odd scepticism that first surfaced during the reinstitution of Local Coucils in Malta and Gozo thirty-three years ago is long gone. There is today an obvious appreciation of the councils' precious role within Maltese society as they as- sume more responsibility in ensuring the continued protection and pres- ervation of their localities' traditions and customs. Tangible and intangible traditions are the basis of every village and town across the Maltese islands, but they also highlight our National Identity. One will find, from one locality to another, vari- ances in those traditions, customs and celebrations, but this annual collective outburst of local activities fashions a re- markable cultural necklace. The concept of local societies embrac- ing and effectively promoting all that distinguishes them individually has hap- pily grown roots in both Malta and Gozo. While such initiatives help, in no small way, in attracting visitors to our towns and villages, the residents within those societies are the main beneficiaries, rel- ishing the fruit of their participation in local elections. Local traditions and customs are an integral part of Maltese culture, hence their undisputable relevance and pre- ciousness within the national context. They are like jewels adorning the Mal- tese people's identity sceptre. The Mal- tese calendar is replete with various cultural activities in the villages and towns of Malta and Gozo, often serv- ing as ideal springboards to such na- tional celebrations as Carnival, the Mnarja agrarian event, and the June 7 commemorations. Our National Identity emerges innate- ly from the activities supported by dif- ferent communities in Malta and Gozo. This resolute participation in local activ- ities helps in not only enhancing that same cultural necklace, but it also envi- sions the Malta we all want to preserve through local traditions, customs and celebrations. Local Councils, however, are not re- stricted to providing daily services and celebrating traditions and customs. The modern council needs to be adamant also in taking educational initiatives that instigate further learning and the acquisition of new talents and skills, as well as finding space for talented residents by tapping into their enthu- siasm and creativity. Many Local Councils have been offer- ing lifelong learning and training cours- es which, besides promoting harmony within their communities, offer different opportunities for persons seeking to ex- press their artistic and artisanal crafts, as in the popular case of lace-making. Such courses and opportunities provide for a keener sense of belonging where tradi- tions, skills and artistic talents are con- cerned, at both local and national levels. Our National Identity is not restricted to the Maltese flag colours and celebra- tions. The National Language, il-Malti, is an even more important pillar that iden- tifies us as a nation. Like all other small languages across the globe, il-Malti is under siege from all sides, and only a whole-hearted collective defence can help it survive. It is why it is so important for the National Language to be sus- tained as the preference among the vast majority of people on these islands. Local Councils play a big part in keeping il-Malti relevant in the every- day life of Maltese families and com- munities, with particular reference to the younger generation whose commitment is paramount. The Na- tional Language distinguishes us from the rest; it is an acclaimed and beautiful language, a remarkable tool that needs to be used and practised at all levels of society, including the everyday business of Local Councils in their sundry mutual communications and with the public and individuals. maltatoday | SUNDAY • 24 AUGUST 2025