Issue link: https://maltatoday.uberflip.com/i/1541179
6 COMMERCIAL maltatoday | SUNDAY • 9 NOVEMBER 2025 MITA drives Malta's digital future through innovation, AI, and cybersecurity MITA has reaffirmed its com- mitment to driving Malta's digital transformation and cybersecuri- ty resilience through two major national events that brought to- gether local and international ex- perts, policymakers, and industry leaders. Both events highlighted Malta's strategic vision of foster- ing innovation, interoperability, and digital trust across the public sector. MITA organised a 2-day nation- al conference; Konferenza MI- TA which focused on the crucial themes of interoperability, cyber- security, and artificial intelligence (AI) within the context of public administration. The event was held in collaboration with rep- resentatives from the European Commission as well as local and international experts. The first day with the focus – Gvern Digitali opened with wel- coming remarks from Mr Tony Sultana, the Principal Permanent Secretary, and Ing. Emanuel Dar- manin, MITA's Chief Executive Officer. Both speakers highlighted the importance of such initiatives in strengthening the public sector through digital modernisation, interoperable, and secure digital solutions. The plenary session explored the European and national vision for interoperability, cybersecurity, and AI as essential pillars of digi- tal transformation in government. Ms Claudia Oliveira from the Eu- ropean Commission outlined how the Interoperable Europe initia- tive is fostering more connected and efficient governance across Member States. Mr Jonathan Cas- sar, Chief Information Security Officer within MITA, discussed challenges and best practices in achieving cyber resilience, while Dr. Josianne Cutajar, former member of the European Parlia- ment, addressed the evolving reg- ulatory framework for AI and the opportunities it presents for the public sector. In the thematic discussion ti- tled "Data and AI: The Future of Government", panellists from MITA, public and private sector exchanged insights on leveraging data and artificial intelligence to enhance public service delivery and advance intelligent govern- ance. Participants had the opportunity to engaged in a series of techni- cal workshops covering key areas such as cybersecurity, interop- erability, data management, and cloud technologies. These sessions provided practical insights into supply chain risk management, technological priorities across European public administrations, and emerging trends in the use of AI within the public sector. The conference successful- ly fostered collaboration and knowledge exchange, reinforcing Malta's position as a nation com- mitted to building a secure, effi- cient, and innovative digital public sector. Complementing MITA's efforts to advance digital transformation, on the second day, the Agency hosted the seventh edition of CY- BER ROOT, Malta's premier na- tional cybersecurity conference, which once again proved to be a resounding success. The event brought together nearly 500 par- ticipants, including cybersecurity professionals, industry leaders, policymakers, and members of the public, to explore the latest devel- opments shaping the cybersecuri- ty landscape. This year's edition focused on emerging cyber threats, the im- pact of AI and new technologies, EU cybersecurity legislation and policies, and strategies for build- ing stronger, more resilient cyber- security teams. In his opening address, MITA's Chief Executive Officer, Ing. Ema- nuel Darmanin, MITA's Chief Ex- ecutive Officer, delivered a strong call to action, urging continued investment in leadership, collab- oration, and shared responsibility. He underscored that cybersecuri- ty is not merely a technical issue, but a people-driven mission root- ed in trust, decisive action, and collective strength. Additionally, the conference featured address- es by Ms Joyce Dimech, Perma- nent Secretary for the Ministry for Home Affairs, Security and Employment, and Mr Luca Tag- liaretti, Executive Director of the European Cybersecurity Compe- tence Centre. A major highlight of CYBER ROOT 2025 was the launch of the CYBER AWARDS, an initiative designed to recognise and cele- brate outstanding contributions to cybersecurity in Malta and within the National Cybersecurity Community. The awards mark an important milestone in acknowl- edging the innovation and dedica- tion that drive the sector forward. As preparations begin for CY- BER ROOT 2026, MITA invites professionals, organisations, and stakeholders to register their in- terest and stay updated on next year's conference, ticket availabil- ity, and early-bird opportunities. Through these initiatives, MITA continues to champion Malta's vision of a digitally empowered, secure, and innovative nation, fos- tering collaboration across sectors and enabling a smarter, more re- silient digital future for all. Melvin Charles Farrugia Bonett Sara Cassar