Alex Sciberras told the Labour Party congress that Malta has reached a turning point, arguing that the country must now shift its focus from economic growth to quality of life.

In his address, Sciberras said the question is no longer whether Malta can succeed, but how it uses the success built over recent years, including through the pandemic and wider global uncertainty.

He said the next phase should focus more on people’s daily lives — from mental health and work-life balance to the way towns and communities are planned.

Sciberras pointed to the need for more accessible public space and better long-term planning, linking this to major redevelopment projects which he said should prioritise public use.

At the same time, he stressed that economic progress must remain inclusive, with continued support for families, pensioners and vulnerable groups.

He also warned that Malta cannot afford to fall behind as economies shift, highlighting the impact of artificial intelligence and digitalisation and the need to prepare for new models of work.

Sciberras framed the direction emerging from the congress as a broader reset, built on consultation rather than pledges, and centred on what he described as a more balanced model of development.