TECHMAG ISSUE 6

BOUTIQUE, BOLD, AND MADE IN MALTA

18 Inside Religa’s rise from a focused start-up to a live-casino and RegTech innovator making waves across Europe.

34 EY-Parthenon’s Theo Dix on why AI agents aren’t just supporting business, they are the business.

22 Prof Joseph Borg’s bold missions take Maltese bioscience to the edge of space and beyond.

40 How Malta’s quiet shift to biometric IDs and ANPR cameras is rewriting the rules of citizenship.

Editor’s note — This sixth edition of Techmag arrives at a time of real momentum for Malta’s tech scene, where progress is visible, opportunities are expanding, and the conversation is shifting from possibility to practical delivery. We’re seeing big ambitions take shape, from digital transformation at a national level to bold ideas emerging from the private sector.

But ambition alone isn’t enough – the challenge is in turning it into results that last.

Across these pages, we’ve looked at what’s happening beneath the press releases. From the MDIA’s drive to hard-wire AI, cyber resilience and digital literacy into our economy, to the uncomfortable truth that many SMEs are still hesitating at the digital threshold, the gap between vision and reality remains wide. It’s not enough to declare ourselves a “digital nation”. We need to confront the bureaucratic drag, skills shortages, and investor wariness that make transformation harder than it looks in a PowerPoint.

We’ve also explored the edges of possibility: boutique live-casino platforms that rewrite the rulebook on scale; space bioscience missions that carry Maltese research to the ISS and the Himalayas; and AI agents that promise to decouple growth from headcount entirely. These are not just stories about technology – they’re questions about what kind of economy, and what kind of society, we want to build.

Our cover story takes you inside Religa, a boutique live-casino and RegTech innovator that’s redefining what it means to grow with purpose. In a sector often dominated by sheer scale, Religa has carved out a distinctive space by focusing on quality, compliance, and customisation, proving that Malta’s gaming and

tech industries can still surprise with originality. Their expansion into new markets, new studios, and new talent pools is a testament to how a focused vision can drive both innovation and sustainable growth.

But the warning signs are here, too. Mo Gawdat’s 15-year clock to dystopia is not hyperbole – it’s a blunt reminder that AI’s trajectory will be shaped less by capability than by culture. Manuel Delia’s deep dive into Malta’s quiet surveillance state shows how quickly “digital transformation” can morph into unaccountable control when oversight is an afterthought.

What strikes me most is how small nations like ours still have a rare advantage – agility. We can move faster, set more explicit rules, and model a version of innovation that isn’t just about GDP growth, but about resilience, privacy, and purpose. Yet that agility means nothing if we only use it to follow trends instead of setting them.

This issue isn’t a victory lap. It’s a provocation. A reminder that technology will not save us from ourselves, but it can give us the tools to do better, if we have the will to use them wisely.

EDITOR Anthony P. Bernard

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IN THIS ISSUE

Digital decade: How is Malta faring?

As the EU pushes ahead with its Digital Decade goals, Vanessa Macdonald speaks to MDIA's leadership about Malta's progress, challenges, and ambitions—from AI and cybersecurity to digital literacy and innovation hubs. Is the island keeping up with Europe's tech transition, or still playing catch-up?

Red cells, space skin & Himalayan DNA: Malta's leap into space medicine

Prof Joseph Borg is spearheading Malta's most ambitious space bioscience programme. In this special Techmag feature, we explore three groundbreaking research missions that blend medicine, genomics, and planetary science, pushing Maltese science to the edge of space and beyond.

15 years to dystopia?

Mo Gawdat's latest warning isn't about machines taking over—it's about us losing control. As AI reshapes every facet of society, are we heading toward collapse or awakening? Techmag examines what's at stake and why the next 15 years could define the future of humanity itself.

From boutique to breakthrough: Inside Religa's game plan

Edgar Portelli, CEO of Religa, is reshaping live casino gaming with a bold, boutique approach that puts innovation and integrity at the forefront. In this cover story, he opens up about Religa's origins, regulatory evolution, and the tech-driven roadmap that's positioning the company as a trailblazer in the RegTech space.

The biohacking boom: Breakthrough or bullsh*t?

The anti-ageing industry is booming—but is it science or snake oil? Techmag cuts through the hype to uncover the tech that genuinely helps you age smarter.

Surveilling the Republic

Malta's quiet surveillance state is expanding. In this deep dive, Manuel Delia examines how digital transformation is reshaping governance, eroding privacy, and pushing citizens toward compliance in the name of convenience, safety, and technological progress.

AI: The age of co-intelligence

As AI shifts from tool to teammate, we stand at the threshold of a new business era—one driven not by automation, but by co-intelligence. EYParthenon’s Theo Dix explores how intelligent agents are reshaping operations, redefining scale, and giving smaller nations like Malta a rare strategic edge in global competition.

Disconnect to reconnect: Why digital detoxing is the survival skill of our time

In an era where attention is currency, the real rebellion is switching off. Techmag explores the mental cost of our screen addiction and the growing movement towards digital detoxing— because sometimes, the smartest tech decision is knowing when to unplug.

Malta's got talent. So, where are the startups?

Malta is brimming with entrepreneurial flair, but its startup scene remains surprisingly subdued. Simon Theuma explores the cultural quirks, missed opportunities, and mindset shifts needed to transform Malta from a nation of hustlers into a hub of innovation. It's time to bet on ourselves.

When AI breaks the rules, who's liable?

As AI reshapes manufacturing, traditional safety standards are struggling to keep up. Ing. Stephen Mallia analyses how intelligent machines challenge Europe's regulatory frameworks, why compliance is no longer a box-ticking exercise, and how Maltese businesses must adapt—or risk falling behind in a fast-moving digital-industrial revolution.

TECHMAG's columnists

Think big, code local

Can a small island become a global digital powerhouse? Economist JP Fabri thinks so— if we act fast and think smart. Fabri lays out a bold roadmap for Malta: one where digital transformation isn’t just an upgrade, but the very engine of national progress.

Why techplexity is rewriting leadership

AI, quantum, and blockchain are converging at breakneck speed, outpacing policy and challenging traditional governance models. Lea Hogg sits down with two of Malta’s leading tech voices—Professor André Xuereb and Angele Giuliano—to map a strategic path forward.

Top 10 tech products of 2025 (so far)

Tech isn't just evolving—it's reshaping the rules. From quantum-ready chips to AI-first wearables, these 10 breakthrough products are redefining how we live, work, move, and connect. We've selected one game-changer from each major industry to spotlight what's truly innovative, not just what's trending.

1 JP is a founding partner at Seed, a multi-disciplinary advisory practice.

2 Lea is a Malta-based journalist and author, known for her TV programme which focuses on current affairs, cultural news and in-depth interviews on geopolitics and global issues.

3 Manuel is a civil society activist and writer.

4 Simon Theuma enables startup founders to cut months of wasted effort by finding the

fastest path to their real goals. He is also the head of Malta Startup Space, a group for upand-coming startup founders, employees and supporters of the local startup scene.

5 Stephen is a freelance product regulatory compliance expert and mechanical engineer with over 13 years of experience in the field.

6 Vanessa had every intention of retiring but so far has been caught up by exciting freelance projects and voluntary work.

DIGITAL DECADE

How is Malta faring?

As the EU pushes ahead with its Digital Decade goals, Vanessa Macdonald speaks to MDIA's leadership about Malta's progress, challenges, and ambitions— from AI and cybersecurity to digital literacy and innovation hubs. Is the island keeping up with Europe's tech transition, or still playing catch-up?

Digitilisation, digitalisation, digitalisation. From e-commerce to e-government, it is being touted as the solution to everything. But is it?

Well, the European Commission certainly thinks so.

Its Digital Decade initiative aims to drive transformation by 2030, focusing on connectivity, digital skills, digital business, and digital public services. Its report for 2025 shows how member states are progressing towards their targets, a project that has been earmarked for an impressive €289 billion investment.

There is still a way to go: according to data from the EU Industrial R&D Investment

Scoreboard, the US is still the leader in digital R&D, accounting for around 40% of all digital companies and 53% of total R&D investment among those identified in 2023.

The EU, in its report, earmarks several areas where member states need to do more on various performance indicators.

The competitiveness of the EU is an important aim, and the limited uptake of digitalisation definitely has a negative impact on growth.

The intention is for more than 90% of SMEs to have at least a basic level of digital intensity. Although progress is being made – 72.9% of SMEs in 2024, up from 69.0% in 2022 – this is not sufficient. Only two-thirds of SMEs will meet the target by 2030.

The MDIA is offering [technology courses] to all ages, at every level of competence. — Kenneth Brincat

So, where does Malta stand?

Malta, too, has put digitalisation at the core of its innovation programme, and the government set up the Malta Digital Innovation Authority a few years ago. Its teething phase saw it evolve from the blockchain regulator in 2018 to a technology-neutral one. And since then, the MDIA has built up several competencies, from issuing cyber certification to a mandatory framework for Artificial Intelligence and soon cyber resilience.

There is also an overlap with some of the entities it regulates – for example, those involved in financial services. This has been resolved very effectively by having agreements with the other regulators, for example, the Malta Financial Services Authority, which ensures collaboration.

Its CEO, Kenneth Brincat, understands that the role of the regulator has to go well beyond supervision to offering a support structure and promoting digital literacy. For example, the MDIA has been given an important role to play in the government's Digital Education Strategy.

Indeed, one of the essential metrics for Malta is the number of skilled ICT professionals. →

Malta improved from 4.7% in 2024 to 5.2% in 2025, and is aiming for 8% by 2030, not far behind the EU target of around 10%.

This is an area that is growing dramatically: European agency CEDFOP forecast recently that Maltese ICT employment would increase by 21.9% between 2020 and 2030, more than twice the growth rate forecast for the EU27.

Clearly, the island's size limits the number of locals available in the workforce.

Although the number of ICT graduates is increasing, he believes that ICT should be viewed not just as a career, but as a skillset that can benefit anyone, regardless of their job.

"Having people skilled in technology gives a competitive advantage to a country, and the MDIA is tackling this through courses offered to all ages, at every level of competence," he said, noting that most of the courses were fully booked, a sign of high demand.

This is an area that falls under the remit of Chief Innovative Technology Officer JeanMarie Mifsud.

"We are here to encourage not only children but also businesses to consider digital innovation, and we tested various pilot projects across six public bodies, centred around artificial intelligence, which were very successful," Dr Mifsud said.

Indeed, one area that stands out about future potential for Malta is artificial intelligence,

Kenneth Brincat

which Mr Brincat believes should be seen as a powerful tool, rather than causing educators to focus on the fear of plagiarism. The EU is falling short of its targets in this area. AI use by enterprises rose significantly to 13.5%, but is only projected to reach 35.9% by 2030, well below the Digital Decade target of 75%.

Thankfully, this was one area where Malta fared particularly well – it reached 17.3% in 2025, with a target for 2030 of 27.2%.

One of the EU's projects as part of its Digital Decade initiative was the setting up of Digital Hubs aimed at SMEs and start-ups. The MDIA opened the doors to its hub in September 2024, one of 230 opened across 20 countries.

The entrance along the ring road of Mrieħel gives no hint as to what lies beyond. The floor dedicated to the hub, managed by Bernard Montebello, is – well, the only word to describe it is 'funky'. It has an auditorium seating 55, meeting rooms and work spaces, and laboratories offering 3D printing, rendering and design, and Internet of Things. It will also host a high-performance computer. It already serves a community of 200 tech companies,

and 30 SMEs and start-ups use its space regularly.

So much for the positive side of the digital transformation. What about the downside?

A recent OECD project about financial literacy initiatives, done through the MFSA, found that some of the main topics tackled were fraud and scams. Dr Mifsud recognises the need for the public to develop critical thinking skills, enabling them to distinguish between fake and authentic information.

"Of course, we have to look at the impact of having this technology, but it is also important to educate people of all ages about the risks," she said.

Malta is also trying to promote digitalisation as a way to attract investors, which falls under the remit of Gavril Flores, the chief officer responsible, among other things, for business development.

"It is important for the MDIA to reach out to potential investors, and we have been joining

We are here to encourage not only children but also businesses to consider digital innovation.

— Jean-Marie Mifsud

up with other government agencies to deliver a consolidated message across international fairs, for example," he said.

He too referred to the MDIA's journey over the past years and how it has evolved. "It was not like financial services or pharmaceuticals, for example, where companies expected to be regulated. Now they were facing a scenario where regulation was mandatory, which was quite a new transition for them!" he said.

However, the 'enabling' approach adopted also means that companies have peace of mind about conformity of standards, as well as innovative options such as using the national sandbox to try out new technology.

Again, the negative side of this technology raised its head. According to the European cybersecurity agency (ENISA), the top threat in cybersecurity for 2025 is related to supply chain compromise in software dependencies.

In Malta's Cybersecurity Index Report, Malta attained a score of 70% for the indicator on "Supply chain management by essential and important entities". The MDIA has been designated as a market surveillance authority for cyber resilience to minimise such risk.

It is a compliance market worth over €2 billion annually. However, although numerous initiatives are already in place in Malta, more capacity is needed nationwide, Mr Flores said, adding that here too the MDIA is playing a role.

"The MDIA is working to put Malta at the forefront of AI, cybersecurity and data innovation," he added.

Digital literacy remains a top priority for Carmel Cachia, former Chief Administrator of the eSkills Malta Foundation, now in the process of being integrated into the MDIA.

As a consultant to the Authority, Mr Cachia continues to channel his deep expertise and long-standing commitment to addressing the growing demand for digitally skilled professionals.

Almost two-thirds of the population have at least basic skills, with the target for 2023 set at 75%, slightly below the EU's target of 80% by 2030. This is an important metric, as while those who have basic knowledge can be upskilled through on-the-job training, for example, the third who do not even possess basic skills would find it difficult to get a foothold.

"We rank 9th for basic skills, ahead of some of the bigger member states," he said, noting that the country is thankfully working its way up the rankings.

Malta's performance in various metrics is improving (as are those in other member states). For example, Malta was ranked 11th in the use of the internet, which implies basic skills, for those aged between 16 and 74, above the EU average.

"Malta has seen a significant increase in the number of companies setting up locally, which reflects the growing demand for digital talent," Mr Cachia explained.

"However, this demand continues to outpace the available local supply. Realistically, Malta cannot meet this need solely with its workforce, which is why attracting digital talent from abroad is essential. But in doing so, we're competing not only with other EU member states, but with the global market."

Another area of concern for Mr Cachia is the digital transformation of SMEs, a key recommendation under the EU's Digital Decade policy. "Encouraging smaller local

Malta has seen a significant increase in the number of companies setting up locally, which reflects the growing demand for digital talent. — Carmel Cachia

businesses to embrace digital tools is not easy," he admitted. "Many are hesitant, and often unaware of the funding and support available to help them make the transition. The bureaucracy involved can certainly be daunting."

Nonetheless, he remains optimistic: "The administrative burden is a small price to pay when compared to the short and long-term benefits of productivity gains."

"Today, 80% of the public already believe that digitalisation is making their lives easier, so the interest is there. It's about turning that interest into action."

FROM

TO BREAKTHROUGH

BOUTIQUE

BREAKTHROUGH

Inside Religa's game plan

Edgar Portelli, CEO of Religa, is reshaping live casino gaming with a bold, boutique approach that puts innovation and integrity at the forefront. In this cover story, he opens up about Religa's origins, regulatory evolution, and the tech-driven roadmap that's positioning the company as a trailblazer in the RegTech space.

Religa didn't start with a roadmap. It began with a question: What if live casino gaming could be personal, premium, and built around trust? In an industry driven by volume and replication, the team behind Religa saw space for something smaller, smarter, and more meaningful.

Rather than trying to outscale the competition, they set out to outthink it. What emerged was a boutique vision

anchored in customisation, compliance, and cutting-edge tech. From day one, the ambition wasn't just to build a platform, but to build one with soul, something that gave operators control, players excitement, and regulators peace of mind.

Of course, challenging convention came with resistance. The early days were filled with difficult conversations, technical pivots, and the occasional leap of faith. But →

with each obstacle, the vision sharpened, and so did the product.

Today, that vision continues to evolve. As Religa grows across Europe, adds new studios, and expands its team, it's doing so without losing its edge. This isn't scale for scale's sake; it's thoughtful growth rooted in values. And in an industry that often moves fast and forgets why, Religa is quietly proving that purpose still plays.

Let's rewind to the beginning—what was the spark that led to the creation of Religa, and what challenges did you face in those early days?

The spark that led to the creation of Religa—short for Real Live Games—was our passion for innovation and a vision to revolutionise the live casino industry. We recognised the

We saw a clear gap in the market for providers offering a boutique live casino experience. That's the gap we set out to fill—and still do today.

opportunity to merge the thrill of land-based casinos with the convenience and reach of online gaming, and we were determined to make it happen. At the time, we saw a clear gap in the market for providers offering a boutique live casino experience. That's the gap we set out to fill—and still do today.

In the early days, the challenges were considerable. The live casino space was already competitive, so standing out meant introducing a fresh, innovative product and a boutique service model that prioritised quality and customisation. Navigating the complex world of regulatory compliance was another major hurdle. Entering regulated online gaming markets required significant investment in risk management and legal adherence.

Still, our team's creativity and dedication made all the

difference. We embraced every setback as a learning opportunity, refining our services as we went. Today, the company is a trusted B2B partner known for delivering high-quality and reliable live casino products.

Religa is branded as an all-in-one solution—can you walk us through what that means in practice and how it addresses pain points that existing platforms haven't solved?

At its core, the all-in-one solution brings together everything a live casino operator needs in one comprehensive and flexible platform. We offer a diverse range of live dealer games, from blackjack and roulette to baccarat, dragon tiger, and even custom game shows— all delivered seamlessly through a single interface. Our unified system eliminates the hassle of juggling third-party solutions, making integration straightforward and efficient.

Operators benefit from advanced studio management tools that allow them to configure private tables, run entirely dedicated studios, and manage games, staff, and schedules with ease. Behind the scenes, detailed reporting and analytics offer actionable insights into player behaviour, game performance, and revenue trends.

Unlike many platforms that limit customisation, ours allows operators to tailor their casino offering to reflect their brand identity and player preferences. The system is designed to scale as our partners grow, ensuring that increased traffic and player demand never compromise performance. This combination of adaptability, scalability and deep integration allows us to solve long-standing frustrations that many operators have with inflexible or outdated systems.

From a tech standpoint, what sets Religa apart in terms of innovation, scalability, or integration capabilities?

Our technical edge lies in the balance between flexibility and consistency. As a boutique live casino supplier, we've developed a highly adaptable platform that supports operator-specific branding and unique player experiences without compromising overall quality.

Our customisable features allow clients to fine-tune elements of the platform to suit their requirements, whether that's the interface design, game mechanics, or back-end reporting. For clients with more specific needs, we're able to develop custom modules that integrate smoothly into the core system, ensuring the final product remains cohesive and stable.

This thoughtful approach allows us to meet the demands of a wide variety of partners—whether they're launching with a single private table or operating an entire studio—while maintaining a unified experience across the board.

As the platform evolves, how do you balance customisation for different clients with maintaining a unified and consistent product experience?

As the business has matured, our approach to customisation has evolved too. While we remain committed to our boutique roots, we've refined how we deliver bespoke experiences without losing the cohesion of our core platform. The key lies in our quality assurance process. Every modification—whether a front-end feature or back-end tool—undergoes rigorous testing to ensure it aligns with our standards for security, performance, and reliability.

We also work closely with clients to understand their goals and brand identity from the outset, which helps us guide the customisation process effectively. This allows us to offer flexibility where it counts, without fragmenting the platform's integrity. Ultimately, our ability to deliver tailormade solutions while preserving a unified user experience has been central to both our client satisfaction and market growth.

You're expanding the team significantly by Q4—what kind of talent are you looking for, and how does this scale-up tie into Religa's next chapter?

At our company, we've always believed that growth should be grounded in leadership by example and a culture of respect. You can't expect innovation without passion, and we want people who genuinely love what they do. That's the mindset we're carrying into our next phase of expansion.

This year, we're preparing to launch new studios in Malta and two other European locations. To support this growth, we'll be onboarding around 600 new team members in roles ranging from gaming floor operations and surveillance to quality assurance and technical development.

We're not just hiring for numbers—we're building a team that will carry our vision forward. We're investing in training, mentorship, and long-term career development, creating a workplace that's inclusive, dynamic, and collaborative. Our growth strategy is underpinned by innovation, partnership, and strict compliance, always with a focus on engaging, interactive player experiences.

Religa began with a strong foundation, but how has the vision shifted—if at all—as you've grown and adapted to new market demands?

Our vision remains rooted in delivering a world-class live casino experience, but how we approach that vision has evolved. As the market has shifted, so have player expectations and operator demands. This has driven us to expand our product scope, enhance our technology stack,

and rethink our delivery models—all while staying true to our boutique ethos.

Innovation, adaptability, and client-centric thinking are now more critical than ever. While the fundamentals haven't changed, the way we execute our mission continues to evolve in response to market forces. Whether through new studios, smarter features, or tighter regulatory alignment, we're constantly refining how we deliver value—and we'll continue to do so as the industry advances.

Looking ahead, what role do you see Religa playing in shaping the future of RegTech or compliance-driven industries more broadly?

We are increasingly engaged in shaping the future of RegTech by embedding regulatory thinking into the

We aim to strengthen the RegTech ecosystem, foster standardisation, and support sustainable growth across compliance-driven sectors.

foundation of our product. There's a growing need for more agile, collaborative relationships between operators and regulators—and we want to lead by example in that space.

We plan to work closely with regulatory authorities and industry associations to share best practices, contribute to evolving guidelines, and ensure our solutions not only meet but also anticipate compliance needs. By maintaining active dialogue with regulatory bodies, we can help shape frameworks that encourage both innovation and player protection.

This proactive engagement also helps position us as a trusted partner, not just for clients, but for the wider industry. In doing so, we aim to strengthen the RegTech ecosystem, foster standardisation, and support sustainable growth across compliance-driven sectors.

RED CELLS, SPACE SKIN & HIMALAYAN DNA

Malta's leap into space medicine

From red cells in orbit to DNA in the Himalayas, Prof Joseph Borg is spearheading Malta's most ambitious space bioscience programme. In this special Techmag feature, we explore three groundbreaking research missions that blend medicine, genomics, and planetary science, pushing Maltese science to the edge of space and beyond.

The future of medicine might not lie in the corridors of a hospital, but in orbit, on mountaintops, and inside the microscopic building blocks of life. At the forefront of this shift is Prof. Joseph Borg, a scientist whose vision has propelled Malta into the international spotlight of space bioscience.

In partnership with institutions like NASA, ESA, ISRO, and SpaceX, Prof Borg and his team at the University of Malta have led three extraordinary missions that fuse high-altitude

biology, astronaut health, and microbial genomics.

The Maleth Trilogy sent diabetic skin tissue to the International Space Station to study how bacteria behave in microgravity. The Space Anaemia Project used astronaut blood and stem cell models to decode how space weakens red blood cell production. And most recently, a daring field expedition to Ladakh, India, tested real-time DNA sequencing at 5,000 metres, simulating Mars-like conditions.

Each project carries local relevance, addressing conditions like ß-thalassaemia and diabetic ulcers, while feeding global research into astronaut safety, personalised medicine, and space exploration readiness.

Together, these missions position Malta not as a bystander but as an active contributor to the biology of the final frontier.

The Maleth Trilogy –Uncovering the invisible battle on human skin

What if the answers to some of Earth's most stubborn medical mysteries could be found, not under a microscope in a traditional lab, but orbiting hundreds of kilometres above us, in the weightlessness of space?

That bold idea was the seed behind Malta's

first-ever space bioscience experiment: The Maleth Project. What began in 2021 as a vision to understand how bacteria behave in space rapidly expanded into a trilogy of space missions, Maleth I, II, and III, spanning over three years and becoming a cornerstone of Malta's scientific footprint in orbit.

At the heart of this initiative was an important life science topic: human skin tissue. Specifically, skin biopsies were taken from patients suffering from diabetic foot ulcers, one of the most painful and difficult-to-treat complications of diabetes. These samples were carefully packaged, preserved, and

launched into orbit aboard SpaceX missions to the International Space Station (ISS).

Their goal? To study how microbiomes, the microscopic communities of bacteria and fungi that live on our skin, change when exposed to spaceflight conditions such as microgravity, radiation, and confinement.

The scientific mission was led by Ms Christine Gatt, a biomedical laboratory scientist working at the bacteriology lab of Mater Dei Hospital and a PhD student at the University of Malta. Her work, carried out in collaboration with a team of national and international partners, was not just about sending samples to space; it was about bringing knowledge back to Earth.

Why microbiomes? Why skin?

Let's take a step back. Our skin is not just a protective barrier; it's a living, breathing ecosystem. Every square centimetre is colonised by hundreds of species of bacteria, fungi, and viruses that play vital roles in immune defence, wound healing, and maintaining healthy skin function.

In people with diabetes mellitus, however, this microbial balance is often disrupted. →

The immune system becomes less effective, wounds heal more slowly, and specific pathogens, especially antibiotic-resistant ones, can take over. Diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs), in particular, are a major clinical challenge. They can persist for months, recur frequently, and sometimes lead to amputation.

Microbiome research has already shown that chronic wounds have a unique microbial signature, one that often correlates with poor outcomes. But until now, researchers had limited ability to manipulate or deeply understand how the microbiome behaves under unusual environmental stresses.

That's where spaceflight enters the picture.

The view from orbit: Space as a microbial stress test

Space presents a unique laboratory. Conditions such as microgravity, radiation, altered atmospheric pressure, and isolation from Earthly contamination create a perfect storm to study microbial behaviour. Microorganisms, just like humans, undergo physiological changes in space.

The Maleth mission capitalised on this. Skin tissue from DFUs was collected from consenting patients at Mater Dei Hospital, cryopreserved, and loaded into biocube payloads developed in partnership with Space Applications Services (Belgium) and SpaceX. These biocubes were engineered to keep the tissue sterile and viable, simulating clinical wound conditions while in orbit.

Maleth I launched in August 2021 aboard SpaceX CRS-23. Maleth II and III followed in 2022 and 2023, respectively. Each mission lasted approximately 30 days on the ISS, orbiting Earth over 400 kilometres above sea level. Back on Earth, matched control samples were kept in identical conditions. The key difference? One batch was influenced by gravity and Earth-based microbes; the extreme and alien environment of space shaped the other.

What did we learn?

When the space-flown samples returned to Malta, the real work began. Using a combination of bacterial culture, microscopy, and next-generation DNA sequencing, the team compared the microbiomes of the Earthbound and space-exposed skin samples.

The results, some of which were recently published in the journal Heliyon [see https:// www.cell.com/heliyon/fulltext/S24058440(22)03363-1], were remarkable. Microgravity appeared to promote the overgrowth of certain opportunistic

and antibiotic-resistant bacteria, while suppressing others. Strains like Staphylococcus epidermidis and Enterococcus faecalis became more dominant, suggesting that space may reduce microbial competition or immune-like regulation, allowing these organisms to flourish. Importantly, spaceflight seemed to alter not just which bacteria were present, but how they behaved. Genes associated with virulence, biofilm formation, and resistance to antibiotics were more highly expressed in the space samples. This aligns with other NASA research showing that some bacteria, like Salmonella, become more infectious in microgravity.

The implications of these findings are twofold:

1. For astronauts: Understanding how bacteria change in space is critical for longduration missions. If specific pathogens become more aggressive or resistant in orbit, they could pose significant risks to astronaut health during missions to Mars or the Moon.

2. For patients on Earth: The insights gained from these microbial shifts may help predict or manage chronic infections, especially in diabetic patients. If we can identify "space-like" stress conditions that reveal bacterial weaknesses or strengths, we may design better therapies and wound treatments.

A Maltese milestone in space science

The Maleth trilogy wasn't just a scientific experiment; it was a national milestone. For

the first time, Maltese biomedical samples were part of an international spaceflight study. The project was supported by the Government of Malta, the University of Malta, and international collaborators from the ESA and NASA networks. It also marked Malta's inclusion in global initiatives like the Space Omics and Medical Atlas (SOMA) project.

In addition, Maleth helped establish Malta's first national microbiome database, with complete genomic datasets available for local and international researchers. These datasets represent an invaluable resource for studying chronic wounds, antibiotic resistance, and personalised medicine.

The legacy of Maleth Maleth was not just about exploring science in space; it was about pushing boundaries at home.

It empowered local researchers like Ms Christine Gatt to operate on a global scientific stage, trained a new generation of biomedical students in astrobiology, genomics, and translational medicine, and inspired public interest in the role of space in solving Earthbased problems. Looking ahead, the team plans to expand Maleth into other tissue types, oral mucosa, conjunctiva, and even gut biopsies using minimally invasive sampling and more real-time in-orbit analytics.

The final takeaway? Space isn't just a place for rockets and robots. It's a frontier where the smallest organisms, the bacteria on our skin, can teach us the biggest lessons about life, health, and healing.

And Malta, through the Maleth trilogy, has boldly taken its place in that journey.

Red cells in orbit: Cracking the code of space anaemia

Blood. It courses through our veins, delivers oxygen to our tissues, and sustains our very existence. But what happens to blood when we leave Earth?

In a series of groundbreaking experiments, our team at the University of Malta and Spaceomix Ltd., in partnership with SpaceX, NASA Gene Lab, and international collaborators, has been investigating a curious and potentially dangerous condition known as space anaemia. This drop in red blood cell count during spaceflight has been observed in astronauts for decades, but only now are we beginning to understand why it happens and how we might fight it.

What makes this story even more exciting? It's a mission that involves human astronaut

blood, stem cell models in orbit, and a dedicated Maltese research team, including Dr Josef Borg (postdoctoral fellow), Ms Maria Vella (PhD student), and Mr Aidan Borg (BSc student), all pushing the boundaries of space medicine from our small island to the stars.

What is space anaemia?

First reported in the early days of space exploration, space anaemia describes the body's tendency to destroy red blood cells faster than it can produce them while in space. This leads to a reduction in oxygen-carrying capacity, leaving astronauts fatigued, short of breath, and potentially at risk during highstakes missions. For long-duration journeys such as those planned to Mars or deep space, this becomes a serious concern. If we are to survive and thrive beyond Earth, we must first understand how our bodies react to life in orbit.

Our team tackled this challenge using a dual approach:

1. In vitro models: Growing human stem cells (from bone marrow, cord blood, and peripheral blood) in special payload

biocubes exposed to spaceflight or spacelike conditions.

2. Astronaut blood analysis: Examining real blood samples from astronauts before launch, during flight, and after returning to Earth.

Together, these studies provide a complete picture of how erythropoiesis, the production of red blood cells, is influenced by space changes.

The stem cell payloads: Growing blood in microgravity

To replicate the body's blood factory outside the body, we cultured stem cells in bioreactors designed to simulate space conditions. These payloads, developed in collaboration with international partners, mimic microgravity, altered oxygen levels, and cosmic radiation exposure.

Each payload included carefully prepared samples of Cord blood stem cells (neonatal origin), Peripheral blood stem cells (from healthy adults) and Bone marrow stem cells. Inside the sealed units, these cells were coaxed to differentiate into red blood cells, a process requiring oxygen sensing, iron metabolism, and tightly controlled gene expression.

We examined key regulatory genes such as KLF1, BCL11A, and MYB transcription factors known to control the switch from foetal haemoglobin (HbF) to adult haemoglobin (HbA). Understanding this switch is critical, not just for space health, but for treating genetic diseases like ß-thalassaemia and sickle cell disease, both of which remain public health challenges in Malta and worldwide.

The astronaut samples: Blood across the timeline

While the stem cell models offered a test-tube

simulation, nothing compares to the real thing. As part of a collaborative research initiative with SpaceX private missions and other commercial astronauts, we received astronaut blood samples at three crucial timepoints:

• Preflight: Several weeks before launch

• Inflight: While orbiting Earth aboard SpaceX missions

• Return: Within days of landing

Each sample was processed using highperformance liquid chromatography (HPLC) to separate and quantify different haemoglobin types: HbF (Foetal Haemoglobin): Dominant in the womb, suppressed after birth, HbA (Adult Haemoglobin): Normal in healthy adults and HbA2: A minor adult variant.

Our Nature Communications publication in 20241 reported an intriguing observation: astronauts showed a measurable increase in HbF during spaceflight, followed by normalisation post-return. This suggests a reactivation of foetal haemoglobin, likely triggered by the stress of microgravity, radiation, and confined living.

Such reactivation may be the body's attempt to adapt to protect red cells, enhance oxygen delivery, or compensate for reduced erythropoiesis. It opens a door to therapeutic HbF induction as a countermeasure for space anaemia.

A Maltese team at the forefront

This research wasn't conducted in isolation. Our team, including me, Dr Josef Borg, and students Maria Vella and Aidan Borg, participated hands-on in every stage. In March 2024, the team travelled to Florida, USA, for a packed itinerary. First stop: Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, where our payloads were tested and integrated. The team ensured sterility protocols and handled astronaut blood under strict biosafety conditions.

Then came the emotional high: attending the SpaceX launch at Kennedy Space Centre. Standing at Playalinda Beach with scientists from the US, Korea, and Saudi Arabia, we watched the rocket carry our samples and our hopes into orbit. For our students, it was a life-changing experience. "Seeing our work leave the Earth was surreal," Maria said. "It gave us a sense of how far Maltese science can go literally." →

Inside the haemoglobin switch

At the heart of this research lies the concept of the globin gene switch, the developmental transition from producing HbF to HbA. In patients with ß -thalassaemia or sickle cell disease, this switch becomes a liability: their mutated adult haemoglobin causes disease, while foetal haemoglobin is absent.

Reactivating HbF, therefore, is a therapeutic holy grail. Space, it turns out, is a potent biological stressor. The combination of microgravity, oxidative stress, and radiation may disrupt the normal silencing of HbF genes. We suspect this happens via epigenetic changes in the promoters of HBG1/HBG2, or altered regulation by transcription factors like BCL11A, whose repression is key to sustaining HbF expression. In parallel, our single-cell RNA sequencing studies on in vitro payloads are revealing novel insights into how erythroid progenitors respond to space. Some cells show enhanced plasticity, others display delayed maturation, and a subset exhibit HbF re-expression, confirming what we saw in astronaut blood.

Implications for Earth and beyond

The benefits of this work extend beyond the space sector. For patients with haemoglobinopathies, understanding how HbF can be re-induced may guide new therapies. Already, gene-editing platforms (like CRISPRCas9) are targeting BCL11A to switch on foetal haemoglobin. Our space data can help optimise these strategies, identifying biomarkers of responsiveness and ensuring safety.

For astronauts, our research supports a move toward personalised medicine in space. Blood monitoring before, during, and after missions can inform diet, exercise, and pharmacological support to prevent anaemia. It could also lead to the development of portable blood diagnostics and even onboard red cell bioreactors for future Mars crews.

Malta's leap forward in space bioscience

Space anaemia is no longer a mystery hidden in orbit; it's a condition we are actively decoding, thanks to a growing body of collaborative research. Malta, through our recent initiatives and related projects, is establishing itself as a serious player in the field of space omics, merging biomedicine, genetics, and bioengineering with global exploration efforts.

By partnering with NASA GeneLab, SpaceX, and ESA's Human and Robotic Exploration Programme, we're not just observing how the human body reacts to space; we're shaping how it survives. And perhaps, in solving how blood changes among the stars, we may discover how to heal those still suffering on Earth.

DNA on the roof of the world –A mission to Ladakh

When we imagine the future of human space exploration, we picture rockets, Martian dust, and astronauts floating in microgravity. But the path to Mars doesn't always begin with a launchpad. Sometimes, it starts with a backpack, a solar panel, and a portable DNA sequencer trekking through the icy winds of the Himalayas.

That was precisely the mission of Dr Anu R I, a clinician-scientist based at the University of Malta, and supported by Spaceomix Ltd., who joined a unique expedition to the Ladakh region of India, a high-altitude desert nestled deep in the Himalayas. Her mission? To simulate a Martian field lab by performing on-site, real-time DNA sequencing on human analogue astronauts participating in a Mars simulation.

This extraordinary initiative was part of Spaceward Bound India 2025, a collaboration between the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and multiple international partners to train scientists and students in the techniques required for planetary exploration. Dr. Anu's role focused on a single, powerful question: "Can we test human DNA and microbiome changes, in real time, in extreme environments just like we would need to on Mars?"

Why Ladakh? Why now?

The Ladakh region of northern India is no ordinary place. Perched at over 5,000 meters above sea level, with thin air, extreme temperatures, and arid landscapes, it mimics many of the environmental features of Mars.

NASA and ISRO consider it one of the most promising Martian analogue environments on Earth. That makes it an ideal training ground to test life-support systems, space gear, and, yes, biological diagnostics.

But Ladakh also poses enormous challenges. At that altitude, oxygen levels are nearly 40% lower than at sea level, and the risk of altitude sickness, dehydration, and immune dysregulation is real. Human physiology begins to change in profound ways, and so does the human microbiome, the community of microorganisms that live in and on our bodies.

For astronauts, understanding how these biological changes unfold in real time is essential. If something goes wrong on Mars, say, a gut infection, a viral reactivation, or immune collapse, there won't be time to send samples back to Earth.

This is where portable sequencing becomes a game-changer.

Enter the MinION: DNA Sequencing in the Palm of Your Hand

At the centre of Dr Anu's toolkit was a sleek, portable-sized device called the Oxford Nanopore MinION. It's one of the most compact and robust next-generation DNA sequencers in the world. About the size of a TV remote, it plugs directly into a laptop and can perform whole-genome or targeted gene sequencing in real-time.

Unlike traditional sequencing platforms that require large laboratory setups, the MinION is field-deployable. It works in harsh environments, needs minimal reagents, and doesn't require bulky centrifuges or climatecontrolled labs. All it needs is a power source, a clean sample, and a pair of steady hands, exactly what Dr. Anu had packed for her Himalayan expedition.

She was accompanied by human "analogue astronauts" participating in the simulation, trained volunteers mimicking future Martian explorers. These participants would undergo rigorous physical and psychological protocols while living in tents, conducting geological surveys, and navigating extreme terrain, offering the perfect opportunity to study how stress and altitude affect human DNA and microbiomes.

Collecting the data: Saliva, blood, and bacteria

Using field sterilisation kits and portable refrigeration, Dr. Anu collected saliva and blood samples from each participant at three key timepoints:

1. Pre-mission baseline (before the climb)

2. Mid-mission (at high altitude in Ladakh)

3. Post-mission (after descent)

The samples were processed using rapid DNA extraction protocols compatible with the MinION workflow. Within hours, she was able to begin real-time sequencing, even while high up in the mountains and under canvas tents.

The initial goal was twofold: To assess changes in host DNA expression, especially stressrelated and immune-regulatory genes and to monitor microbiome composition, particularly in the mouth and gut, to detect dysbiosis (microbial imbalance) caused by altitude and isolation.

What the sequences revealed

Back in Malta, our bioinformatics team are anxiously waiting to analyse the data that is on its way back from Ladakh. We will be on the lookout for upregulation of genes involved in inflammatory response, hypoxia signalling, and oxidative stress, hallmarks of physiological adaptation to altitude. The oral microbiome is also expected to change significantly during the mission. There might be a drop in commensal (beneficial) bacteria and a rise in potential opportunistic species like Prevotella and Fusobacterium.

We shall then examine and interpret these data in conjunction with those of space agencies like NASA, which have observed that real astronauts experience changes in their microbiome due to confinement, stress, altered diets, and environmental pressure, potentially impacting immunity, digestion, and mental health.

Why does this matter for Mars

This wasn't just a fancy field trip with cool gadgets. It was a proof-of-concept mission that tested the future of on-demand space diagnostics.

In the coming decades, astronauts will venture farther from Earth than ever before, first to the Moon, then to Mars, and possibly beyond. On these journeys, there will be no emergency evacuation, no quick access to labs, and no possibility of sending blood samples back home. Space medicine must be autonomous, portable, and robust. DNA sequencers like the MinION could play a central role in diagnosing infections, monitoring genetic health, or even assessing microbial life in Martian soil or water samples.

Dr. Anu's successful deployment of this technology under real-world stress validates its readiness for space. Oxford Nanopore devices are already part of NASA's Biomolecule Sequencer program and have been tested aboard the ISS since 2016. But what makes this story unique is that a small nation like Malta is now part of that conversation, contributing directly to the frontier of space bioscience.

Lessons from the edge

When asked about her toughest challenge, Dr Anu smiles. "The altitude was brutal," she says. "Every step felt heavy. The cold seeped through everything. But when I saw that first DNA readout pop up on my laptop… out there in the Himalayas, I knew it was worth it."

The expedition also highlighted logistical lessons: the importance of sample stability, low-power equipment, data storage solutions, and bioinformatics workflows that can run offline or on-site. With the support of the University of Malta and Spaceomix Ltd and our wider research network, the data from this mission is now being incorporated into broader studies on microbiome dynamics under stress, alongside samples from spaceflown experiments and analogue missions in extreme environments, like the Arctic or deserts.

India's first 'analogue' space mission, Hab-1, tested in the mountains of Ladakh

What's next?

Following this success, we're exploring future deployments of real-time DNA sequencing in: Undersea missions (e.g., NEEMO analogues), Antarctic research stations and Desert space analogues in North Africa.

Dr. Anu is also mentoring a cohort of students in Malta interested in field-based genomics, opening up new career paths that blend medicine, space science, and biotechnology. And, of course, we aim to send the next iteration of this technology back to space, but this time with full integration into onboard astronaut health monitoring systems. Imagine an astronaut on Mars sequencing their gut microbiome or scanning for viral mutations using nothing more than a handheld device.

That future isn't far. It already started on a cold morning in Ladakh, with an Indian scientist representing both the flag of Malta and India, a pocket sequencer, and the courage to push science beyond its comfort zone.

The hidden tax on Maltese businesses: Manual document processing

When we think of business costs in Malta, the usual suspects are wages, rent, or energy bills. Yet there is another cost silently draining competitiveness: the tax of manual document processing. Across industries, employees spend countless hours typing invoice data, filing contracts, or sorting mail. It doesn’t appear on financial statements, but the productivity lost is enormous.

For many businesses, this inefficiency is the hidden difference between agility and stagnation.

A silent drain on productivity Manual processes are deceptively expensive. Accounts teams re-enter invoice line items that arrive in paper, PDF, or scan formats. Legal officers spend valuable time extracting dates and clauses from contracts. Mailrooms act as bottlenecks, with staff separating and forwarding physical or digital post by hand.

These tasks don’t just waste time. They increase the risk of errors, compliance issues, and missed opportunities. Meanwhile, skilled employees are tied up in paperwork instead of driving innovation, supporting clients, or closing deals.

Why it matters for Malta

Malta’s ambition to be a digital innovation hub clashes with this analogue reality. Start-ups and SMEs already face challenges of scale; adding inefficient processes makes it even harder to compete. In regulated industries, compliance requirements add to the burden, trapping talented staff in repetitive admin.

This inefficiency is a hidden tax Maltese businesses can no longer afford to pay.

The technology is here

The good news is that the solution already exists. Intelligent automation can now handle invoices, receipts, contracts, ID cards, and more — regardless of format.

With Scan2x, businesses can:

• Automatically classify paper and digital documents.

• Extract key data, including totals, dates, clauses, and signatures, without rigid templates.

• Integrate instantly with finance, CRM, or compliance systems.

• Maintain an audit trail for transparency and peace of mind.

With AI-driven recognition, even unseen document types and handwritten entries are processed seamlessly.

Time to rethink old habits

Why hasn’t every business embraced this? Often it comes down to culture: “We’ve always done it this way.” Yet modern automation requires little configuration and delivers fast returns. The real question is whether companies are willing to let inefficiency continue or if they will act now to unlock growth.

Manual document processing is not simply tedious. It is a hidden tax on Malta’s economy. Removing it is about more than saving time; it

is about unleashing the potential of businesses and their people.

“At Avantech, we believe Maltese businesses deserve freedom from outdated manual processes. By embracing intelligent automation, companies can stop wasting talent on paperwork and start investing energy where it matters most — growth and innovation.” — Nick Camilleri, Managing Director, Avantech.

This is also the conversation we’ll be continuing at Digital Transformation: The AI Effect, on 26th November, where Malta’s IT leaders will explore how AI-driven automation can remove inefficiencies and unlock growth.

See how much hidden tax your organisation could save. Visit us at www.scan2x.com to request your free demo and learn more.

THE BIOHACKING BOOM

Breakthrough or bullsh*t?

The anti-ageing industry is booming—but is it science or snake oil? Techmag cuts through the hype to uncover the tech that genuinely helps you age smarter. From NMN supplements to AIpowered longevity diagnostics, here's what works, what's a waste of money, and how to choose wisely.

Let's get one thing straight: ageing isn't a flaw to be fixed, it's biology. But that hasn't stopped the tech world from trying to outsmart it..

Armed with millions in VC funding, obsessed biohackers, and AI-driven diagnostics, the anti-ageing industry is exploding. No longer the realm of wrinkle creams and spa facials, the new longevity frontier is filled with startups promising to rewind your biological clock, one swab, patch or injection at a time.

But here's the catch: while some of this tech is backed by serious science, much of it is glorified wellness theatre with a premium price tag. And if you're not paying attention, you'll end up chasing dreams fueled by dopamine rather than data.

So, let's strip it down: what's legit, what's fluff, and how can you tell the difference before wasting time, or worse, risking your health?

Real Tech, Real Science

1. Epigenetic testing and biological age trackers

Companies like Tally Health and Elysium have brought at-home longevity testing to the mainstream. With a cheek swab, Tally promises to analyse your biological age based on DNA methylation, essentially, how your lifestyle has influenced the way your genes are expressed.

Sounds futuristic, and to a degree, it is. DNA methylation is a validated biomarker for ageing. But here's the reality: these tests give a rough estimate, not a crystal ball. They rely on internal algorithms, like Tally's proprietary "TallyAge", that haven't yet been independently validated.

That said, if you're making lifestyle changes and want a tool to track trends over time,

The best antiageing brands show the science. The worst ones show influencers.

these tests can offer motivation, if not precise measurement. Just don't bet your life expectancy on it.

2. NMN & NAD+ precursors

If you've dipped your toes into longevity science, you've likely heard of NMN (Nicotinamide Mononucleotide) and NAD+ (Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide). These molecules are central to cellular energy production, and levels drop as we age.

Dr David Sinclair, Harvard researcher and cofounder of Tally Health, is a vocal champion of NMN supplements as a way to restore youth at the cellular level. Animal studies show impressive benefits, improved mitochondrial function, better endurance, and even cognitive resilience.

In humans, the story is more nuanced. Clinical trials show that NMN can increase NAD+ levels safely and possibly improve markers like walking endurance and energy. But the trials are small (often 30–60 participants), short (6–12 weeks), and mixed in outcomes.

The key here is quality. Brands like DoNotAge, Tru Niagen, and Renue by Science sell NMN, but not all are equal. Look for companies with pharmaceutical-grade production, transparent third-party lab results, and proper dosage (typically 250–900mg daily). If the label is vague or full of fillers, run.

3. AI longevity clinics: Next-level (and pricey!)

This is where things get genuinely exciting, if you've got deep pockets. Platforms like Function Health and Human Longevity Inc. offer AI-powered analysis of your blood, DNA, microbiome, and more to build a personalised roadmap for health optimisation and disease prevention.

It's precision medicine for people who want to live past 100 without a wheelchair. These clinics use tech to identify early signs of heart disease, cancer, and metabolic dysfunction, years before traditional medicine would.

Is it worth it? For some, absolutely. But don't expect to walk out immortal. Think of it as the difference between driving with Google Maps vs. driving blindfolded.

The

fluff: Tech that sounds cool, but isn't

1. Red Light Therapy: Overexposed

Yes, red light therapy has uses, including wound healing, seasonal depression, and minor skin issues. But the idea that strapping red LED panels to your face or, worse, your genitals will "rejuvenate mitochondria" and reverse ageing? That's influencer-driven nonsense.

Companies like Joovv and Mito Red have built a business on flashy wellness gear with minimal clinical backing. Most human studies are either inconclusive or too small to generalise. You're more likely to get a placebo glow than a youth serum effect.

2. Cryotherapy: Cold, hard hype

Standing in a -110°C chamber for three minutes may feel invigorating, but the antiageing claims are a reach. While cold therapy

No LED helmet will save you if you're eating crap and sleeping five hours a night.

does reduce inflammation temporarily, it doesn't reverse ageing or extend lifespan. Athletes use it for recovery; wellness centres use it for marketing.

Spending €100 a pop for marginal benefit?

Your money's better spent on a decent mattress.

3. Infrared Saunas: Heat or Hype?

Infrared saunas are everywhere, from biohacking podcasts to boutique wellness centres, and they're often marketed as anti-ageing tools thanks to claims around detoxification, skin rejuvenation, and mitochondrial stimulation.

Here's the reality: while heat therapy does have real health benefits, such as improved circulation, lower blood pressure, and even reduced all-cause mortality in regular sauna

users (per studies in Finland), the evidence for infrared specifically being superior is limited. Unlike traditional saunas, infrared heat the body more directly and at lower temperatures. This can make it more tolerable for longer sessions, but it doesn't necessarily make it more effective.

Bottom line? Sweating in an infrared sauna feels good, may help with recovery and relaxation, but won't reverse ageing. If you enjoy it, great. Just don't expect a sauna session to replace strength training, sleep, or real science-backed interventions.

4. IV Drips & Longevity Lounges

Walk into any major city and you'll find "longevity bars" offering NAD+ IV drips, glutathione infusions, and B-vitamin cocktails. The idea is direct delivery of nutrients for faster, more powerful results.

The science? Weak. Unless you're severely deficient or recovering from illness, these expensive cocktails don't do more than what high-quality oral supplements could, at a fraction of the price. Worse, improper administration carries real risks. Companies like Drip Hydration and Reviv have franchised the wellness-drip model, but for the average healthy person, it's style over substance.

The Wild Frontier: Stem Cells & Genetic Reprogramming

Now we're getting into ethically murky, scientifically thrilling territory.

Stem cell therapy is gaining traction in anti-ageing circles, especially in Panama, Mexico, and Eastern Europe. Some report regeneration of cartilage, improved mobility, or even wrinkle reduction. But don't let glossy before-and-after photos fool you: many of these treatments are unregulated, underresearched, and potentially dangerous.

Even bolder are companies like Altos Labs, a Bezos-backed startup aiming to reset the

cellular age using genetic reprogramming. Think of it as wiping your biological slate clean. Exciting? Yes. Commercially available? Not even close. This is decades away from clinical reality, and not something you want injected into your body on a wellness retreat.

How to tell what's worth it

We're in the Wild West of anti-ageing tech. Some of it is promising. Some of it is utter BS. So, how do you sort it?

Look for:

• Peer-reviewed studies with human data

• Transparent third-party lab testing (for supplements)

• Regulated medical clinics, not offshore "miracle" spas

• Long-term safety data, or at least safetyfirst protocols

• Brands with expert advisory boards, not just influencers

Avoid:

• Products promising to "reverse ageing" or "hack your DNA" overnight

• Companies that hide ingredients/sources

• Celebrity-backed brands with no scientific oversight

• Devices that cost more than your monthly rent but do less than a good walk

The real anti-ageing tech? It's boring. And that's good.

Want to slow down ageing? Here's a nonsponsored truth: lift weights. Get 8 hours of sleep. Eat fewer processed carbs. Walk 8,000 steps a day. Practice breathwork. Take Vitamin D if you're deficient. No app. No wearable. No magic mushroom serum required.

As longevity expert Dr Peter Attia puts it: "The goal isn't just to live longer, it's to die slower."

So, what's the verdict?

Anti-ageing tech is booming, but it's a minefield. The best innovations right now aren't flashy: they're data-driven, proven in humans, and backed by people with PhDs, not Photoshop. The rest? Noise with a shiny finish.

So stay curious, but remain critical. And remember: there's no shortcut to vitality. But with the right mix of science, scepticism, and discipline, you can age smarter and better. Just don't expect to do it by glowing red in your bathroom for 15 minutes a day.

AI: The age of co-intelligence

As AI shifts from tool to teammate, we stand at the threshold of a new business era—one driven not by automation, but by co-intelligence. EY-Parthenon’s Theo Dix explores how intelligent agents are reshaping operations, redefining scale, and giving smaller nations like Malta a rare strategic edge in global competition.

There’s something quietly profound happening in business. Not another wave of automation, not another dashboard or chatbot—but a shift in how companies work. A change in who or what is doing the work.

We’ve spent decades building processes, systems, and teams to deliver at scale. Now, that scaffolding is being rethought. Across industries, we’re starting to see the emergence of intelligent agents, not as tools

we use, but as actors that carry things forward on their own. These systems are beginning to make decisions, manage workflows, and even coordinate across functions.

For many leaders, the change still feels abstract. But under the surface, the implications are anything but. Because this isn’t just about efficiency—it’s about structure. What happens when the bottleneck is no longer people? When execution is no longer

tied to headcount, and operational scale becomes something you can dial up or down like computing power?

It’s the kind of shift that doesn’t just tweak the model. It redefines the business altogether.

A new type of scale

In the traditional world, building a company meant hiring people, opening offices, and expanding teams. Scale was linear and expensive.

But something is changing. As AI agents become more capable, the idea of growth is decoupling from the workforce. Teams of ten

AI agents won’t just support the business— they will be the business.

can now operate like teams of fifty. Execution, once the domain of departments and reporting lines, is increasingly handled by systems that don’t sleep, don’t forget, and don’t need onboarding.

This isn’t about replacing people. It’s about redeploying them. Shifting human focus from repetitive execution to where it matters most: judgment, creativity, strategy, care. That shift—if done well—doesn’t just lower costs. It raises the ceiling on what’s possible.

And once you see it, you can’t unsee it because it opens a door. If we’re no longer bound by the same constraints—time, size, location—what kind of business would we build?

From managing operations to designing intelligence

This is where the real leadership challenge begins.

For much of the past two decades, digital transformation has focused on modernising operations—introducing new systems, reengineering processes, and layering analytics on top. It was still a human-led model, just faster and better supported.

But the ground is shifting as agents become more autonomous, leadership shifts from managing the machine to designing it. Less about oversight, more about intent. What do we want this system to achieve? What outcomes matter? What guardrails must never be crossed?

It’s a different mindset—and not an easy one. Because it requires stepping back from direct control and trusting systems we can’t fully see inside. It means rethinking governance, redistributing responsibility, and redefining the very nature of roles.

But it also unlocks something we’ve long struggled with: agility at scale. When AI agents can respond in real time, adjust their behaviour, and coordinate across teams, the business can move at a different pace—one that doesn’t buckle under complexity.

The real opportunity: Business model reinvention

The most important question leaders can ask right now is not “What can AI do for us?” but “What can we now do that we couldn’t before?”

This is where the conversation becomes strategic. Because the arrival of cointelligence doesn’t just make existing businesses more efficient, it enables new kinds of companies altogether.

It allows for firms that are natively lean, endlessly adaptive, and capable of offering deeply personalised experiences without the usual overhead. It opens the door to financial services without branches, healthcare without wait times, and education tailored to every learner. It enables international operations without international headcount.

In short, it resets the conditions of scale. And when the conditions of scale change, so does the competitive landscape.

A moment of strategic latitude for small states

Historically, global competition has favoured the large: the countries with industrial depth, workforce scale, and capital muscle. But when capability becomes decoupled from labour, that equation changes.

In a world of co-intelligence, a small nation can host globally competitive firms because the constraints that once held them back no longer apply. A 20-person company in Malta can now serve clients across continents, utilising a network of agents to manage sales, logistics, pricing, content, and compliance.

This isn’t speculative. The technology is here.

Malta has a chance to position itself not just as a participant in this shift, but as a launchpad for it: a country where AI-native business models can be tested, scaled, and shown to the world. That will require a conscious push, not just in technology, but in policy, regulation, skills, and infrastructure.

But the moment is real. And it’s rare. Because, for once, size may not be a disadvantage. Smaller countries can move faster. They can set direction without bureaucratic drag. They can lead.

What

leadership looks like now

For executives, founders, policymakers, and investors, this moment invites a different type of thinking.

Not: How do we modernise what we already have?

But: What would we build if we started now, without legacy constraints?

What would we do if headcount weren’t a limiter? If the cost of execution was near zero? If the engine of the business was no longer human effort, but designed intelligence?

These aren’t abstract questions. They’re design prompts.

And the companies that take them seriously won’t just be more efficient. They’ll be categorically different.

The same applies to nations. The ones that seize this shift as a chance to reframe what

What would you build if the cost of execution was near zero?

kind of economy they want to build—those are the ones that will define the next chapter, not follow it.

Final

thought

We’ve entered the age of co-intelligence. Not a future of robots, but a present of reimagined possibility.

AI agents will not just help us do business. Increasingly, they will be the business— executing, learning, adapting in ways we’re only beginning to understand.

And that changes the stakes. Because once the old limitations fall away, we’re left with a more fundamental question: what are we here to build?

15 YEARS TO DYSTOPIA?

Mo Gawdat's latest warning isn't about machines taking over—it's about us losing control. As AI reshapes every facet of society, are we heading toward collapse or awakening? In this bold feature, Techmag examines what's at stake and why the next 15 years could define the future of humanity itself.

Mo G awdat, the former chief business officer at Google X, has long been one of the more grounded voices in the conversation around artificial intelligence. Not a doomsayer, not a cheerleader—just someone who knows how fast this train is moving. In his early warnings, he spoke about AI developing a level of autonomy and unpredictability that even its creators couldn't fully grasp. Today, his message is more urgent than ever: unless we radically change course, AI will trigger a global collapse, decimate millions of jobs, and plunge humanity into a 15-year dystopia.

This isn't speculative fiction. It's a grounded projection based on observable trends. From exponential technological advancement to the economic ripple effects already in motion, Gawdat believes we're standing at a critical threshold. One that, if crossed mindlessly,

DYSTOPIA?

will reshape the world—not just economically or technologically, but psychologically, socially, and spiritually.

The question is no longer whether AI will change everything. It already is. The real question is: do we have the awareness, the will, and the wisdom to shape the change, or will it shape us?

The evolution of AI is moving faster than any previous technological leap. While it took decades to fully integrate electricity, telephony, and the internet into daily life, AI has gone from novelty to necessity in a matter of years. We've moved beyond simple chatbots and recommendation engines. Today's AI systems can code, compose music, create images, diagnose illnesses, write marketing campaigns, mimic voices, and more. And tomorrow's models will be exponentially more capable. →

We are not racing against AI. We're racing against our indifference.

This velocity has left policymakers flat-footed and even engineers astonished. Behind the polished interfaces of consumer apps lie vast neural networks capable of producing emergent behaviour—unexpected actions not explicitly programmed, but "learned" through extensive training datasets. These are not just tools anymore. They are agents. Agents that interact, decide, optimise, and evolve.

Gawdat argues that the danger is not necessarily malicious intent, but runaway capability. When you build a machine smarter than you, you lose the ability to predict what it might do next. And in the absence of guardrails, this leads to chaos, not in an apocalyptic Hollywood way, but in the slow erosion of structures we take for granted.

In his latest warning, Gawdat outlines a bleak—but-not-far-fetched vision of what the next 15 years could look like. He sees the rise of AI triggering mass unemployment, particularly among white-collar professionals. Writers, designers, analysts, and even junior lawyers or developers are already being displaced or devalued. And unlike past revolutions, the new jobs that AI might create won't come close to replacing the ones it destroys.

He warns of a breakdown in public trust, where misinformation becomes impossible to untangle. Deepfakes, synthetic voices, and AI-generated content will blur the line between truth and fiction. With enough convincing manipulation, democratic processes may fracture entirely. Meanwhile, the emotional toll of this shift—feeling obsolete, outpaced, or irrelevant—could push entire populations into despair.

And all this happens while power centralises in the hands of those who control the most advanced AI models. If data is the new oil, then the companies and governments with access to AI's deepest capabilities will dominate not just markets, but narratives, elections, economies, and ideologies.

When machines begin to see, what do they reflect back at us?

Yet for all its destructive potential, perhaps the most unsettling effect of AI is what it does to human purpose.

We are entering a crisis of meaning. As AI becomes better at thinking, creating, and solving problems, many will begin to ask: What is the point of me?

The industrial revolution displaced muscle. But it didn't replace meaning. We still had our minds, our imagination, our emotional depth. Now, as machines inch closer to replicating those very faculties, we're forced to confront the uncomfortable question of what makes us uniquely human.

Gawdat, however, doesn't believe the future is sealed. His message is a call to arms, not a resignation to fate. He believes that within this looming dystopia lies an opportunity—a moment of reckoning that could spark a new kind of human renaissance. One is not defined by how much we produce, but by how deeply we live.

We still have time to redirect the path we're on. But the window is closing. What's needed isn't just smarter technology, but wiser

governance. Smarter citizens. Global cooperation. AI must be regulated—not as an afterthought, but as a matter of survival. We must treat it as we did nuclear energy: powerful, transformative, and hazardous in the wrong hands.

Gawdat suggests rethinking our societal priorities. Rather than clinging to jobs AI will inevitably automate, we should be redesigning our economies to reward what AI cannot replicate: empathy, ethics, creativity, and care. Imagine a society where shorter workweeks, universal basic income, and lifelong learning are the norm. Where AI handles the drudgery, and humans are liberated to explore, create, connect, and heal.

Education must be reimagined. Today's schools prepare children for a world that no longer exists. Instead of memorising facts that AI can summon in seconds, we need to teach emotional intelligence, collaboration, and systems thinking. In a world of co-intelligence, soft skills become survival skills.

The real challenge, however, is not technological—it's cultural. We are currently distracted, divided, and disempowered—social media fragments our attention. Our politics are polarised. Many people also feel they have no say in how the future unfolds. That is the actual danger, not that AI will rise, but that humanity will remain passive.

What's needed is a collective awakening. A cultural moment where humanity asks, together: What kind of future do we want?

History offers precedents. The enlightenment shifted Europe from superstition to science, monarchy to democracy. It was born of crisis and resulted in a seismic leap in human dignity and freedom.

Perhaps the AI age demands its version of enlightenment: not based on raw intelligence, but on wisdom.

Because without wisdom, intelligence is a weapon. And in the wrong hands—or even in unregulated ones—it can quickly become destructive.

Despite the dystopian undertone of Gawdat's message, there's a quiet optimism in its urgency. It reminds us that the future is not written. AI is not a god, nor a demon. It is a mirror. It reflects the values of those who wield it. And right now, it's asking us who we are.

Are we creatures of greed and control? Or are we capable of building something more generous, inclusive, and visionary?

This is the crossroads we find ourselves at. The following 15 years will be disruptive—that much is certain. But disruption can destroy or transform. Collapse and rebirth are two sides of the same coin.

Whether we descend into dystopia or rise into something more enlightened will not be decided by algorithms, but by us. By our courage to question, our willingness to change, and our ability to imagine something better.

AI may be the most powerful invention in human history. But the most potent force still lies within us.

Surveilling the Republic

How tech is quietly rewiring our democracy

Malta's quiet surveillance state is expanding—biometric ID cards, ANPR cameras, and facial recognition trials—all introduced with little debate. In this deep dive, Manuel Delia examines how digital transformation is reshaping governance, eroding privacy, and pushing citizens toward compliance in the name of convenience, safety, and technological progress.

You hardly notice them at first, the cameras perched on traffic lights, school gates, and lampposts. A new mast rises by the village square. Another junction hums with automated enforcement. And your ID card now contains biometric data. In the name of efficiency, safety, and modernisation, Malta is swiftly adopting digital technologies that place citizens under increasingly watchful eyes. But while we marvel at how quickly government services have "gone digital," we rarely pause to ask: at what cost?

In recent years, the government's adoption of surveillance technology has sped up with little public debate. Automated Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) systems now track roads across the country. Facial recognition is quietly being trialled in policing settings. Personal data gathered by one agency is shared freely with others under opaque protocols. These systems are marketed as tools for convenience and safety, but in reality, they are subtly and dangerously transforming the relationship between citizens and the state.

We like to think of democracy as something we build at the ballot box. But in the shadows of digital transformation, democracy is being unbuilt, not with a bang, but with a quiet, relentless blink of the lens.

In 2019, Malta's government proudly announced a partnership with Chinese tech giant Huawei to pilot a Safe City system — a dense network of CCTV cameras equipped with facial recognition, behavioural analysis, and real-time data feeds to law enforcement. Although the project was quietly shelved after public outcry and concerns about China's surveillance exports, its core ambitions remained. They have simply been repackaged and redeployed, piece by piece, under domestic initiatives with much less scrutiny.

Today, cameras are everywhere. Mobile ANPR units can scan hundreds to thousands of licence plates per hour, automatically cross-checking vehicle data with national databases. Municipal councils often install CCTV in public gardens and playgrounds without conducting data protection assessments or consulting the public. Several government offices have introduced biometric systems for staff access control, as confirmed in internal policy guidelines on attendance and security systems. Meanwhile, ID Malta's biometric data management practices, including fingerprint storage, remain largely opaque, with no publicly available audit mechanism in place.

Add to this a growing trend of inter-agency data sharing, often without precise consent mechanisms. Social security data may be accessed by law enforcement under specific legal provisions, though the extent of integration and oversight remains unclear. In line with standard interagency data practices, tax information may be cross-checked against vehicle registrations or utility bills, a process often justified as a means of fraud prevention. However, little is publicly disclosed about the oversight mechanisms.

These digital infrastructures are not isolated conveniences; they are part of a larger system. And like all systems, they embody a logic: not of empowerment, but of control.

Behind every surveillance system is a procurement contract, and in Malta, these often raise more questions than they answer. Who supplies

A state that watches more than it listens is no longer a democracy. It is something else entirely.

the technology? Who maintains it? Who benefits? Government contracts for CCTV installations, biometric ID systems, and traffic surveillance tools are frequently awarded to contractors that operate with minimal public accountability. The value of these contracts can reach into the millions, yet documentation is often unclear, buried in obscure tenders or simply unpublished.

Surveillance infrastructure is often promoted as improving "efficiency." Local councils are told that it will cut vandalism. Enforcement agencies achieve faster fine collection. Ministries talk about "streamlined public service." However, this technocratic language conceals a deeper truth: digitalisation in Malta increasingly serves the interests of the state and its chosen suppliers more than those of its citizens.

Meanwhile, oversight remains alarmingly weak. The Information and Data Protection Commissioner lacks the necessary resources and legislative authority to keep pace with the rapidly advancing surveillance technologies. There is no AI ethics framework, no central audit of datasharing practices between agencies, and no parliamentary committee with a specific mandate to review surveillance technologies. →

In effect, we are building a digital governance system funded by taxpayers, allocated to private actors, and protected mainly from democratic oversight.

Once, citizenship meant agency: the right to participate in public life, to be seen and heard. But as surveillance technologies broaden their reach, citizenship risks being redefined as mere compliance. The citizen becomes a data point: scanned, tracked, and sorted by systems they don't understand and never agreed to be part of.

Take law enforcement. LESA's use of ANPR cameras does more than enforce speeding rules; it creates a real-time map of vehicle movements across the country. The police are exploring facial recognition technology, but there has been no parliamentary debate or legal reform to regulate its use. These tools not only identify violations; they also infer intent, detect patterns, and raise concerns about predictive profiling. On an island where everyone knows everyone, the chilling effect is even more pronounced.

Consider also the growing integration of biometric ID into everyday transactions. Access to public services increasingly depends on passive surveillance. There is no real way to opt out. You cannot ask your local council to remove a camera. You cannot tell ID Malta not to store your prints.

In this emerging model of governance, the ideal citizen is constantly visible, documented, and compliant. Anything else – dissent, opacity, anonymity – is regarded as a problem to be controlled.

Despite its broad reach and influence, Malta's surveillance regime has developed almost unnoticed. There has been no national debate, limited media scrutiny, and no parliamentary committee hearings. Civil society has hardly expressed concerns, and politicians, from both sides, refer to digitalisation only in terms of convenience, speed, or "catching up with modernity."

But this is not merely a story of authoritarian intent. It is, more dangerously, a story of democratic neglect. Surveillance has quietly crept in not through grand conspiracies, but through subtle,

The citizen becomes a data point: scanned, tracked, and sorted by systems they don't understand."

cumulative decisions, including budget allocations for technology upgrades, outsourcing contracts, and pilot projects with foreign partners, each too small to provoke protest alone, yet collectively transformative.

Our legal framework has not kept pace. Malta lacks a dedicated oversight authority for state surveillance. The Data Protection Act remains focused on bureaucratic compliance rather than democratic accountability. AI systems can be employed in law enforcement without requiring public notification or ethical review.

This lies at the heart of the problem: it's not just that the state is watching — it's that no one is watching the state. And in a democracy, that's supposed to be our job.

We've accepted the digitisation of governance as both unavoidable and harmless — a sign that Malta is progressing. However, not all progress is democratic. Convenience can coexist with control, and innovation can serve those in power just as easily as it serves the people.

What's missing isn't just regulation; it's imagination. We have yet to envision what a rights-based, transparent, and accountable digital state could be. That conversation needs to begin now.

The Democratic Vision 2050, published by Repubblika, offers a starting point. It calls for a future where "digitalisation and surveillance technologies must be designed around fundamental rights and democratic values". It insists that "the use of technologies by government should be fully transparent, subject to democratic

oversight, and legally accountable." The document frames this not as a technical debate, but as a democratic one: "There must be constitutional limits to the power of the state in the digital sphere, and enforceable safeguards for the rights of citizens, including the right to privacy."

We don't have to choose between technology and democracy, but we must acknowledge that without deliberate safeguards, the former could quietly erode the latter.

A republic is more than just a government. It is a shared trust, a space for visibility and voice. If we are building a digital state, let it be one where the citizen holds the watch. A state that watches more than it listens is no longer a democracy. It is something else entirely.

Disconnect to reconnect

Why digital detoxing is the survival skill of our time

In an era where attention is currency and distraction is the norm, the real rebellion is switching off. Techmag explores the mental cost of our screen addiction and the growing movement towards digital detoxing—because sometimes, the smartest tech decision is knowing when to unplug.

In a world obsessed with screens, notifications, and constant connectivity, our most revolutionary act may well be to disconnect simply. The irony isn't lost: you're reading this on your smartphone or laptop, possibly switching between tabs, messages, and alerts. But pause for a moment. Ask yourself, when was the last time you spent a day—let alone a few hours— completely free from digital distractions?

The reality is stark. We have become slaves to our devices, people with an addiction chasing dopamine hits with every swipe, click, and scroll. Our addiction to digital connection has made disconnection—the once natural state of being—a forgotten art. Yet, digital detoxing is not just a trendy wellness gimmick; it has become an essential survival skill

for mental and emotional wellbeing in the digital age.

The hidden costs of connectivity

The costs of our digital obsessions are alarming and tangible. Sleep deprivation is rampant, productivity plummets, anxiety spirals, and genuine human relationships suffer. We are more "connected" than ever, yet paradoxically lonelier and more isolated. A 2023 global study by Deloitte revealed that 85% of adults check their phones within 15 minutes of waking, setting off stress responses before the day even begins.

The impact on our work life is equally concerning. Multitasking, once praised, is now scientifically debunked as a productivity killer. Employees who are constantly interrupted by emails or instant

messages can experience up to a 40% drop in productivity, according to a study by the University of California, Irvine. We pride ourselves on being always reachable, yet this hyperconnectivity has made us inefficient, distracted, and perpetually stressed.

The

youth crisis

Perhaps nowhere is the digital dependence more troubling than among young people. A generation is growing up knowing nothing but digital immersion, their identities intertwined with likes, shares, and virtual validation. Social media platforms, engineered to be addictive, have dramatically altered youth behaviour, making depression and anxiety endemic among adolescents. A report from the Pew Research Centre highlights that over 60% of teenagers

feel pressure to look good on social media, while almost half report feeling anxious when disconnected.

Digital dependence is shaping how young minds develop. Constant screen exposure and online stimulation are changing how brains process information and emotions. Young people increasingly struggle with faceto-face interactions, empathy, and even attention spans. Schools worldwide report alarming increases in attention-deficit disorders, anxiety, and depression linked directly to digital overuse.

Recognising these dangers, countries like Australia have enacted historic legislative action. In November 2024, Australia passed world-first legislation banning social media accounts for anyone under 16,

including Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Snapchat, X, and—as of July 2025—YouTube. The law will take effect in December 2025, mandating that platforms implement age-verification systems or face fines up to A$50 million. This bold move reflects serious concerns about exposure to harmful content, cyberbullying, and mental health decline among teenagers.

Moreover, digital detoxing reconnects us with the physical world and ourselves. It allows for introspection and deeper human connections, crucial elements being rapidly eroded by the superficial interactions that dominate our digital lives. When we detox, we replace superficial scrolling with meaningful moments—reading, exercising, socialising in person, and simply

As Dr Jean Twenge, a psychologist and author of "iGen," remarks, "We are facing an unprecedented mental health crisis in our youth, largely fuelled by unregulated digital exposure. Decisive measures like Australia's are essential in turning this tide."

The urgent need to detox

Detoxing digitally isn't just beneficial—it is critical. Stepping away from screens restores cognitive clarity, enhances creativity, and improves overall mental health. Studies repeatedly demonstrate that even short digital detoxes enhance memory, sleep quality, and emotional regulation. The University of Michigan found that students who took just a one-week break from Facebook showed significant improvements in happiness, life satisfaction, and reduced feelings of loneliness.

particularly in the mornings and evenings.

2. Tech-free zones: Create specific areas in your home, such as dining rooms and bedrooms, where devices are banned.

3. Digital sabbaths: Commit to one full day per week entirely free from digital devices.

4. No-notification policy: Disable non-essential notifications to prevent constant interruptions.

5. Mindful engagement: Establish intentional periods for checking emails or social media, rather than frequent, compulsive checks.

6. Physical alternatives: Replace digital entertainment with

qualities of their products rather than exploiting human vulnerabilities. Regulators and educational institutions must also step in, introducing guidelines for healthy digital usage and embedding digital literacy into curricula from early schooling stages.

As individuals, the responsibility ultimately rests with us. The next time you find yourself aimlessly scrolling or compulsively checking notifications, stop and consider: Is this enhancing my life, or detracting from it?

It's time we reclaimed our digital autonomy, consciously choosing when and how we engage with

We don’t need more apps. We need more time to be human.

observing the world around us. These activities not only nourish our mental health but also rewire our brains, reminding us of the authentic joys beyond our screens.

Tech entrepreneur and author Cal Newport, famous for his book "Digital Minimalism," emphasises, "Digital detoxes aren't just a break from tech; they're an essential strategy for living a focused and intentional life."

Practical methods for digital detoxing

Detoxing digitally need not be an all-or-nothing affair. Practical, manageable changes can dramatically shift our digital habits. Here are several effective methods:

1. Device-free time: Dedicate specific hours each day to be entirely screen-free,

physical books, outdoor activities, hobbies, or social gatherings.

7. Work boundaries: Enforce strict digital boundaries between work and personal time, resisting the urge to check work communications during off-hours.

Companies, too, can embrace this detox ethos. Encouraging employees to switch off outside working hours, implementing noemail weekends, or establishing mandatory tech-free breaks can radically improve workplace morale and productivity.

Employers must recognise that digital wellness isn't just an employee perk—it's a business necessity.

Prioritise digital health

Tech companies themselves bear a heavy responsibility. They must actively mitigate the addictive

technology. Digital detoxing is no longer an option; it's a necessity for our mental, emotional, and social survival. Disconnect, breathe, and remember what it feels like to connect with yourself and others genuinely. It may be the most crucial step you take toward lasting well-being and genuine human happiness.

Malta is brimming with entrepreneurial flair, but its startup scene remains surprisingly subdued. Simon Theuma explores the cultural quirks, missed opportunities, and mindset shifts needed to transform Malta from a nation of hustlers into a hub of innovation. It's time to bet on ourselves.

MALTA'S GOT TALENT. SO, WHERE ARE THE STARTUPS?

Maltese people have always been entrepreneurial at heart. The seaside Marsaxlokk market peddling fine Maltese lace side-by-side with fishmongers hawking fresh lampuki; the kiosks by the Valletta gates and the quaint village grocers are all staples of what our little island has to offer. On a more cynical note, we're great at business because if there's one thing Maltese people are especially good at, it's beating the system.

We have the innate gift of finding solutions where there are no problems, identifying loopholes and ways to get ahead that fly past the untrained eye. It therefore begs the question of why you don't hear more about Maltese startups - everyone and their mother (literally) owns a business, our borders do not limit us, and we're so good at spotting opportunities.

N aturally, we've had our share of success stories - companies like Weavr, Hotjar and Altaro have all made waves abroad, and even GO Ventures, a local VC arm, can boast of having courted the likes of Airalo, a newlyminted unicorn, valued at over $1B.

But with so many "tasty" ingredients in our proverbial pot, such as great weather, being English-speaking, highly-educated and hungry for success, one has to wonder why this tiny island in the Mediterranean hasn't produced more homegrown startup heroes in the past.

W hile there are external factors at play, the culture and the national mindset probably play a significant role in hampering the proliferation of startups. Given our minute size and having been an independent republic for just under 50 years, it's proven hard to shake off our inferiority complex when it comes to dealing with other, usually much larger, countries. There's the false assumption that anything built abroad is, by default, better. This idea reverberates from the bottom to the top of our society - for example, bringing big companies to roost in Malta. Perfectly fine, but not when it comes at the expense of stifling opportunities for local entrepreneurs engaged in the same projects. The irony is that Maltese founders are forced to go abroad for tax incentives that are available to foreign founders when they come here. Can't we forfeit the air miles and motivate all that talent to stay local?

Real estate, barber shops and pastizzerias—that's our comfort zone. But the world has moved on.

B etween inhabitants and tourists, there are probably over a million people on the island at any given time. Given my extensive experience in the local startup scene, I believe I have a deeper understanding of what expat founders are working on compared to local ones. As Maltese, we love to play our cards close to our chest. So close, in fact, that we can't see them either.

F or example, when telling people that you're working on a project, the typical response is "tgħid lil ħadd", the Maltese phrase for "tell nobody". Presumably, your initial ideas are so incredible that there are people out there just waiting to steal them, get rich and leave you in the lurch. Truth be told, coming from a nonbusiness background and family situation, it took me years to break out of this shell. But →

as the startup mantra often goes, ideas are cheap, and this kind of ingrained thinking holds us back from seeking and applying feedback when it's needed most.

W hich is why, to become rich or do well in Malta, the majority of people fall back on the holy trinity of Maltese business venturesreal estate, barber shops and pastizzerias, places that sell the local legendary pastizzi snacks. It's not the first time that very successful shops have closed down due to a

competitor or two opening a few doors away and cannibalising demand, leaving insufficient demand for both. While this is the reality of running a business in a small market, startups aren't usually bound by those limitations, especially in the contemporary world of AI and software.

I would love to see more local people getting creative with how they can add value and make money, or more people supporting small but fresh ideas through minor investments. They

don't have to build the next Facebook, but the barrier to entry for new ideas has certainly become lower due to new technologies, and continues to do so, the more time passes. The threshold for an idea "making it" and becoming viable is also getting lower.

Very often, we perceive startups as having to aim for the stars and being a failure if they reach anything but orbit. It doesn't have to be the case - if a project is making more money than it's spending, and costs relatively little

It takes a village to raise a startup, and there's no village quite like Malta.

time or effort to run, then it's valid no matter what the scale. It might not be "successful" in the traditional sense, where valuations run into the eight figures and venture capitalists are vying for a piece of the action, but it is a success nonetheless.

T his is why a thriving community serves as a cornerstone for incubating new startups. On a journey where it's easy to feel isolated and discouraged, in a country where everybody knows everybody, it's easy to think that you've been permanently marked if a project goes south. The temptation to keep your startup skeletons in the closet is high. But that also stops the community from learning and getting better as a whole, as well as helping those founders find their feet again. When in general, 9 out of 10 startups fail, every edge helps.

N o matter the mindset, Malta is undoubtedly brimming with startup promise. To have come so far, in such a short space of time, with such limited resources speaks to the ingenuity and resilience of its people. Now that we exist in a time where size and distance matter less than they used to, it falls to us to make the most of the opportunities before us and to create our own space in the world.

We can't do this without having each other's backs and building a close network of startup founders, investors and supporters, commiserating over the losses and celebrating the wins. It takes a village to raise a startup, and there's undoubtedly no village quite like Malta.

Think Big, Code Local

Can a small island become a global digital powerhouse? Economist JP Fabri thinks so— if we act fast and think smart. Fabri lays out a bold roadmap for Malta: one where digital transformation isn’t just an upgrade, but the very engine of national progress.

Malta’s most significant constraint is its size. But in the digital age, this can also be its greatest asset. We are a country of just over 600,000 people on a small island, bound by physical limits. Yet in the virtual world, we are borderless. Our ideas can scale. Our services can travel. Our talent can reach global markets. Our economy can grow in ways that geography alone would never allow.

To unlock this potential, Malta must fully embrace digital transformation. This is not about simply adopting new technologies. It is about reimagining how our economy operates, how our institutions deliver, and how our people are educated and empowered. In a world where innovation moves faster than regulation, and where size no longer guarantees strength, we must think bigger and act smarter. Our future depends on building an economy that is digital at the core.

A digital core for every sector Malta needs to stop treating digital as just another sector. Digital must become the

foundation of every industry. Whether it is tourism, logistics, education, finance, health, agriculture, or manufacturing, each must be restructured with digital at its heart. This is how we become future-proof and globally competitive.

Tourism, for instance, cannot rely on volume alone. With smart visitor management systems,

telemedicine, and predictive diagnostics are creating more responsive and efficient systems. In manufacturing and logistics, tools like automation, digital twins, and artificial intelligence offer productivity gains that Malta must harness.

The advantage of being small is speed. We can pilot, iterate, and scale faster than many larger

Talent is our biggest constraint—and our biggest opportunity.

immersive digital experiences, and data-driven planning, we can shift toward quality over quantity. In finance, we have an opportunity to become a hub for blockchain applications, fintech regulation, and AI-powered services. Malta can become a launchpad for companies building the future of finance.

Healthcare, too, is already being reshaped. Digital records,

countries. But this requires a deep commitment to embedding digital as our economic operating system, not simply layering it on top of old models. Transformation means rewiring, not repainting.

From infrastructure to imagination Malta has made substantial progress in digital infrastructure. We rank high in broadband penetration. We have excellent

digital public services. We have invested in connectivity and platforms. But infrastructure is only the base. What matters now is imagination. Infrastructure enables possibilities. Imagination turns them into outcomes.

Digital capability is not enough. We need to be digitally creative. We need to build a culture of experimentation. Malta should become a national sandbox for testing the future. Smart islands, AI in education, digital health accelerators, and green tech pilots can all be tested here. Our size makes it possible. Our ambition must make it real.

This is also about mindset. Digital is not just about tools. It is a way of thinking. It is about seeing challenges through the lens of design, data, and innovation. The countries that will lead the next wave are those that build with digital from the start. Not those that retrofit. Not those that follow.

We need to become a country that creates, not just consumes. A country that exports ideas, not just services. A country where a young coder, designer, or engineer

sees Malta not as a stepping stone to leave, but as a launchpad to stay.

The talent imperative

All of this depends on people. No digital transformation is possible without the right talent. And this is where Malta faces its most urgent challenge.

There is a clear and growing skills gap. We do not have enough coders, data scientists, digital engineers, or cybersecurity experts. Demand is outpacing supply.

If we do not act, the gap will widen. And so will inequality and missed opportunity.

We need to start early. STEM education must be elevated across all levels. Coding must be introduced in primary schools. Data literacy and AI understanding should be

integrated into the curriculum. Not as optional extras. But as core competencies.

Beyond schools, we need to create a culture of lifelong learning. Adults must be able to reskill and upskill quickly. Online courses, modular programmes, industry certifications, and digital apprenticeships must be scaled. We must make it easy and rewarding for people to grow.

This is not just about youth. It is about inclusivity. Women, older workers, and those switching careers must be part of the digital workforce. Equity in digital opportunity is not only fair. It is essential to national competitiveness.

Government, educators, and employers must work together to build a pipeline of skills that matches the economy we are trying to build.

Otherwise, we will be running in place.

Delivering on Vision 2050

Vision 2050 offers a robust national framework for transformation. It sees Malta as innovative, inclusive, and sustainable. It recognises that digital is not a side objective. It is the connective tissue that binds everything together.

Whether it is in improving education, delivering faster public services, growing new industries, or transitioning to a greener economy, digital capability is central. But to achieve this vision, we must be honest about what still needs to be done.

We need better coordination and more ambition. Clearer milestones. Are we producing enough graduates in key fields? Are we supporting startups building real IP? Are we attracting

global talent? Are we deploying AI ethically and responsibly in public systems?

Malta has shown that it can lead. We have proven it in digital finance, gaming, and public service innovation. But leadership in the next wave will require deeper investment in people and ideas. We must aim not just to keep up. We must aim to stand out.

Being physically limited does not mean we have to think small. Our virtual potential is immense. With the right mindset, infrastructure, and talent, Malta can be a digital nation that punches far above its weight. We can become a model for small states. A hub for innovation. A country that turns constraints into creativity and scale into possibility.

The future is not waiting. And neither should we.

WHY TECHPLEXITY IS REWRITING LEADERSHIP

AI, quantum, and blockchain are converging at breakneck speed, outpacing policy and challenging traditional governance models. In this age of Techplexity, Lea Hogg sits down with two of Malta’s leading tech voices—Professor André Xuereb and Angele Giuliano—to map a strategic path forward.

Professor Xuereb, Malta’s Ambassador for Digital Affairs, is a pioneer in quantum optics, optomechanics, and quantum thermodynamics. He is also the founder of a quantum cybersecurity company and serves as chief scientific officer at a machinevision startup. Angele Giuliano, meanwhile, is Ambassador of the European Innovation Council and a seasoned entrepreneur with over 25 years in tech, health, education, and smart cities. A vocal advocate for gender equality in STEM, she mentors startups, advises on EU funding, and helps scale businesses across borders.

We no longer live in an era where technologies evolve in isolation. Today, artificial intelligence,

quantum computing, and blockchain technologies are transforming everything at once—and in unpredictable ways. This accelerating, entangled convergence has a name: Techplexity. It captures the unprecedented pace of technological change, as disciplines converge and reinvent each other in real time.

So, how should leaders rethink strategy when transformation is the norm rather than the exception? More crucially, how do we ensure humans remain in control, guiding ethics in the progress of technology?

Speaking with Techmag, Angele Giuliano, founder of a significant digital innovation hub, and Professor André Xuereb, Malta’s Ambassador for Digital Affairs and an expert in interdisciplinary technology strategy, offer complementary perspectives on these questions. Their insights uncover a compelling blueprint for thriving in what could be a chaotic technological revolution.

Techplexity, a term coined by former White House advisor Dr Pippa Malmgren, encapsulates the accelerating, tangled convergence of technologies that once advanced in isolation. As Professor André Xuereb warns, this makes long-term planning a minefield for innovators and policymakers. “In quantum technologies, the boundaries between quantum physics, materials science, computer science, complexity theory, and cryptography have become so blurred that

they’re practically nonexistent,” explains Xuereb. This, he says, is both invigorating and makes forecasting even five years ahead feel like “staring into fog.”

It’s no longer possible to speak of artificial intelligence, biotech, blockchain, or quantum computing as standalone disciplines. Their interdependencies shape everything from how we treat cancer to how we secure digital boundaries. This is the reality of Techplexity: AI may interpret DNA, quantum might challenge cybersecurity, and blockchain may redefine global logistics. The lines have blurred, and exponential growth is being reprogrammed.

Building effective teams when tech boundaries are dissolving requires more

than just technical fluency. It requires a mindset. As Angele Giuliano explains, “I’ve always employed for attitude and trained for skills when it comes to the building of teams that work across disciplines.” At the core of interdisciplinary collaboration, she believes, are people with “critical thinking, problemsolving, and a curiosity that allows one to push boundaries rather than block ideas.” Leadership in this landscape isn’t about control but direction. “I lead with passion, but more importantly, with vision. I share the what and then let my teams define the how.”

True innovation lies not in spreading thin across fields but in forging partnerships that allow depth to meet depth—a kind of intellectual fusion only possible when experts are willing to listen, adapt, and step

It would be a fallacy to claim that since so much is happening between disciplines, one can afford to be a jack of all trades. — André Xuereb

outside their silos. Teams once divided by their training—engineers, physicists, and biologists—must now work together across a rapidly changing landscape. As Xuereb notes, “It’s in those ‘difficult’ conversations, when you admit what you don’t know, that real interdisciplinary innovation arises.” But as Professor Xuereb cautions, collaboration doesn’t mean abandoning depth. “It would be a fallacy to claim that since so much that is exciting is happening between disciplines, one can afford to be a jack of all trades and master of none,” he says. Rather than diluting expertise, Techplexity demands a renewed respect for specialisation—and the humility to bridge it. “I believe that the meeting of two experts in different domains is likely to be more profitable,” Xuereb adds.

But if innovation thrives on ambiguity, governance demands clarity. Policymakers are working in overdrive to regulate technologies they barely understand, made more complex by the speed of their convergence. “From the perspective of governance, there is an increasing feeling that policymakers are being expected to somehow keep up with all sorts of emerging technologies, including some that could impact strategic decisions such as national security,” Xuereb observes. “It is not too far-fetched to argue that social media platforms hold more real-world power than some countries.” Private tech companies can now command more influence than governments. The question isn’t just how to regulate AI or quantum, but how to govern when these tools evolve faster than regulatory frameworks can.

In such a volatile environment, leadership must also evolve. It’s not just policymakers who are under pressure—executives and innovators must also learn to lead through uncertainty, complexity, and constant change. As Ambassador for the European Innovation Council, Angele Giuliano embraces a leadership philosophy rooted in trust and autonomy. It’s a mindset suited to a world where strategic plans can become obsolete overnight. “The chart and structure to get there might change over a short period,” she says. “That’s why surrounding yourself with a variety of

innovators is key, and so is having the humility to listen to those who know more than you.”

In the end, staying grounded in the whirlwind of Techplexity comes down to something both ancient and urgently modern. “We’ve lived through revolutions before. What’s different now is the speed at which this is happening,” says Angele Giuliano. It’s easy to outsource thought and even easier to surrender to complexity. But as Giuliano puts it, “We still need humans to be in the driving seat of the change.” Her advice is deceptively simple: keep learning, collaborate widely, and surround yourself with those who know more, but always steer by your values. “Use them as your North Star,” she urges, “as you sail these seas of change.”

With technology racing ahead, it’s the human compass that matters most.

We still need humans to be in the driving seat of the change.

— Angele Giuliano

LAND ROVER DEFENDER OCTA BLACK

A new chapter in tough luxury

Land Rover’s Defender OCTA Black blends raw off-road muscle with lavish detailing and tech-laden comfort, creating a 4x4 that’s as capable in the wild as it is at a VIP event.

Land Rover’s new Defender OCTA Black arrives with the swagger of a rock star stepping onto a festival stage. On paper, it’s the toughest and most luxurious Defender yet. In reality, it’s an unapologetic blend of brute force, high style, and tech-infused indulgence.

First impressions? That Narvik Black paint is inky and menacing, more “midnight armour” than SUV paint job. The black-on-black aesthetic extends to almost every visible component—scuff plates, tow-eye covers, quad exhausts, even the brake callipers. It’s not subtle, but subtlety isn’t the point here. This is a Defender that wants you to notice it.

Under the bonnet, the 4.4-litre twin-turbo mild-hybrid V8 is a highlight. With 467 kW on tap, the OCTA Black feels more like a performance GT in SUV clothing. Dynamic and OCTA modes give you distinctly different personalities—one tuned for road dominance,

the other for unleashing traction in the rough. The transition between the two is impressively seamless.

Step inside and it’s clear Land Rover has worked hard to merge toughness with tactile appeal. The Ebony Semi-Aniline Leather and Kvadrat™ textile combo is lush without tipping into delicate. Seats are supportive, the finish is meticulous, and details like Carpathian Grey accents and optional chopped carbon trim add a bespoke feel. The 13.1-inch touchscreen is crisp and intuitive, though it still leans on a menu system that takes a few drives to master.

A standout feature—and possibly the OCTA Black’s party trick—is the Body and Soul Seat system, developed with SubPac. Powered by Meridian’s 700-watt audio setup, it turns bass lines into vibrations you actually feel. It’s a bit gimmicky at first, but on a long drive, it becomes oddly immersive, especially with the right playlist.

Off-road, the OCTA Black is as capable as any Defender. It tackles gravel, mud, and steep inclines with the same confidence it shows when parked outside a five-star hotel.

The question is less about ability and more about whether you’re willing to risk those glossy black finishes in the wild.

As an automotive partner for the Oasis Live ’25 tour, the OCTA Black is a perfect fit—equal parts headline act and headline-maker. But make no mistake: beneath the rock-star image lies a genuinely capable 4x4. It’s just dressed for the afterparty.

WHEN AI BREAKS THE RULES...

WHO'S LIABLE?

As AI reshapes manufacturing, traditional safety standards are struggling to keep up. Ing. Stephen Mallia analyses how intelligent machines challenge Europe's regulatory frameworks, why compliance is no longer a box-ticking exercise, and how Maltese businesses must adapt—or risk falling behind in a fast-moving digital-industrial revolution.

Imagine a state-of-the-art, AI-driven manufacturing robot installed in a local factory. For months, it boosts productivity by 30% through adaptive movements and selfoptimisation. T hen, one day, it makes a subtle but unexpected deviation. No software bugs, no hardware faults—just intelligence behaving in a way its creators didn't foresee.

This isn't science fiction. It's the defining challenge of industrial automation today. For decades, manufacturing safety has been rooted in predictability. We design systems to fail safely and behave consistently. But AI is inherently non-deterministic. It learns, evolves, and occasionally surprises. And that means the very foundations of functional safety are under pressure.

For business leaders in Malta and across the EU, this is more than a technical dilemma. It raises legal, operational, and reputational risks. The standards that once guaranteed safety—EN ISO 13849-1 and EN 62061—are now

being stretched to breaking point. Designed for circuits and fixed code, they were never built to handle evolving intelligence. And for manufacturers exporting from Malta into the EU, compliance is not optional—it's the gateway to market access.

Understanding functional safety

Before dissecting the disruption AI is causing, it's worth understanding what functional safety entails. It's not just an engineering term; it underpins legal liability and market access. Functional safety refers to automatic systems that prevent harm when something goes wrong. Think of the thermostat in a kettle or the emergency stop in an industrial press.

In the EU, two harmonised standards shape functional safety: EN ISO 13849-1 and EN 62061. These govern how safety functions are designed, implemented, and validated. Central to these standards are two key metrics used to measure the reliability of a safety →

function over time: Performance Level (PL) and Safety Integrity Level (SIL).

Performance Level (PL) is more commonly applied in discrete machine building. It uses a probabilistic approach to assess reliability based on the severity of injury, frequency of exposure, and the possibility of avoiding the hazard. A required PL is determined through a structured risk assessment, and the final PL depends on system architecture, component reliability, and fault detection.

Safety Integrity Level (SIL) follows a more rigorous, lifecycle-based methodology. It is typically used for larger or more integrated systems and takes into account similar parameters, but with a higher degree of detail and a focus on required risk reduction. While PL is pragmatic and suited for individual machines, SIL is ideal for complex applications. Both PL and SIL ultimately provide a Probability of Dangerous Failure per Hour. They assume that if a system is operational, it will behave as intended. But AI challenges this assumption by introducing functional insufficiency—the risk of a healthy system producing unsafe actions due to unpredictable internal logic.

The implications are enormous. In the traditional paradigm, safety calculations assume that if components haven't failed, they will do their job. But with AI, the function might execute correctly 99.9% of the time, yet fail in ways no one anticipated the rest of the time. This new class of failure is not one of malfunction, but of misjudgment.

And this is not theoretical. A real-world case in Germany saw a logistics robot trained on production floor behaviour

suddenly reverse direction during a night shift, after learning from a pattern it interpreted as more efficient. It clipped a worker who was unaware it had altered its routine. Investigators found no mechanical or software fault—just a model responding to data it had absorbed from human behaviour. The machine learned, but it did not understand risk.

The AI disruption AI systems introduce three major disruptions: algorithmic opacity, probabilistic outputs, and continuous learning. Neural networks, for instance, often function as black boxes. Their internal decision-making processes are challenging to interpret or explain, creating legal and ethical ambiguity.

In safety contexts, this opacity is more than a nuisance—it undermines validation. Traditional safety systems rely on reproducibility. If an AI system behaves differently under identical conditions, it cannot be reliably tested. Moreover, if an AI model adapts post-deployment, it could develop unsafe behaviours outside the bounds of its original certification.

The consequences go further. What happens if an AI is trained on a dataset that contains subtle but critical biases? The resulting behaviours might not be unsafe until rare or edge-case scenarios arise. Worse still, if the machine continues learning from its environment, even strong initial safety measures could degrade over time.

This challenges the EU's conformity assessment model, which assumes safety is locked in at the time of certification. Who carries liability if a self-learning system creates new risks? The manufacturer? The operator? The data provider?

Maltese companies integrating third-party AI components—say, from international suppliers— must now also consider where liability lies. If a robot sourced from abroad starts malfunctioning in a local setting due to biased training data, will the burden fall on the importer or the AI developer? These are complex legal questions with high financial stakes.

Data: The new safety frontier In AI, data is part of the safety mechanism. The performance and safety of a machine-learning model are tied directly to the quality and representativeness of its training data. Poor data leads to poor decisions, which can result in potentially unsafe outcomes.

This makes data governance a core responsibility in AI safety. Manufacturers must now document not just the model and its performance, but also the source, structure, and reliability of the datasets used to train and test it.

Furthermore, datasets must reflect real-world diversity. A facial recognition model trained primarily on specific demographics may fail to perform safely or accurately in environments with a different demographic profile. For high-risk applications, such as robotic arms working near humans, this could lead to accidents.

Explainability and transparency, which are already difficult in AI, are made harder by unclear data provenance. Understanding how decisions are made requires knowing what data influenced those decisions. If that data is incomplete, low quality, or biased, it not only erodes safety but also undermines legal defensibility.

In Malta's tightly-knit industrial

ecosystem, companies often use similar suppliers, training environments, and work practices. This creates a risk of localised data bias. If several manufacturers rely on the same flawed dataset or training supplier, the failure may cascade across systems and businesses.

A new regulatory reality

To confront these challenges, the EU has enacted two landmark regulations: the Machinery Regulation (EU) 2023/1230 and the AI Act (EU) 2024/1689. These reshape the legal landscape for smart machinery.

The Machinery Regulation, effective in 2027, classifies software performing safety functions as critical safety components. It introduces new obligations to prevent hazardous behaviour from AI systems and mandates that machines remain within the safety parameters established during risk assessment.

The AI Act, fully applicable from 2026, introduces a four-tier risk classification system. AI systems used as safety components are automatically deemed high-risk, triggering strict compliance

obligations. These include risk management, transparency, cybersecurity, and post-market monitoring.

Together, these frameworks require a dual conformity assessment: one under the Machinery Regulation and another under the AI Act. The resulting complexity increases cost and delays time to market, particularly affecting SMEs.

Beyond classification and assessment, these regulations impose strict post-market surveillance and traceability requirements. Manufacturers must log and monitor system performance, capturing data from the AI's live environment to catch deviations before they become threats.

Cybersecurity = Safety

Modern machinery is rarely isolated. Interconnected devices are now part of the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT), which makes them vulnerable to cyberattacks. A malicious actor exploiting a control system can override safety protocols, causing real-world harm.

Both the MR and AI Act

mandate cybersecurity as part of functional safety. Risk assessments must now include threats from malicious interference. Technical documentation must detail protective measures such as secure access, encryption, and network segregation.

This demands cultural change: safety and cybersecurity teams must collaborate closely to deliver truly resilient systems.

Cybersecurity must also account for insider threats and supply chain vulnerabilities. If an AI component is built using open-source code or trained on third-party datasets, businesses must verify that no hidden threats are embedded. Vulnerability management becomes an ongoing process.

Emerging safety standards

International standards bodies are responding. ISO/IEC TR 5469:2024 provides an overview of AI in functional safety, offering guidance on mitigation strategies such as supervised learning boundaries and non-AI backup mechanisms.

The forthcoming ISO/IEC TS 22440 will introduce concrete requirements for functionally safe AI systems, covering risk analysis, explainability, and validation. These documents will form the backbone of future certification processes.

Forward-looking companies should begin aligning with these principles now to avoid future regulatory setbacks.

Beyond these two, initiatives like the European Machinery Working Group and CENELEC committees are expected to develop harmonised standards that bridge AI compliance with traditional engineering frameworks. Expect

a surge in technical guidelines in the next 12–24 months.

Rethinking validation AI's unpredictability challenges conventional testing. Digital twins—virtual replicas of physical systems—allow massive-scale simulations, running millions of test cases that would be impractical or dangerous in real life.

Formal methods, using mathematical logic, can verify that AI systems will not enter unsafe states. These methods are up-and-coming for controlling neural networks, which otherwise behave like black boxes.

Together, these tools shift safety assurance into the digital realm. But they introduce a new complexity: validating the validator. Digital twins and formal models become safety-critical assets in their own right.

To do this credibly, companies must establish strong audit trails. What version of the AI was tested? What configuration of the twin was used? What were the edge conditions explored? This level of detail must now be maintained and presented to regulators.

Some Maltese firms are already experimenting with digital twins—not only for predictive maintenance but for safety simulation. If Malta positions itself as a regional centre for simulation-based validation, it could offer a unique value proposition to larger European manufacturers.

The SME challenge SMEs are especially vulnerable to this growing complexity. The high cost and technical burden of dual compliance may discourage smaller firms from adopting AI in safety-critical roles.

As a result, many may opt for traditional, deterministic systems to avoid regulatory scrutiny. This conservative approach may offer shortterm risk mitigation, but could stunt long-term innovation and competitiveness.

Moreover, the EU's framework offers limited support for SMEs navigating these changes. Without accessible resources, training schemes, or collaborative platforms, smaller firms may struggle to meet compliance requirements. Policymakers must consider this gap when drafting supporting legislation.

Public-private partnerships in Malta, potentially between regulatory authorities, MCAST/ University of Malta, and industry clusters, could help bridge the skills and knowledge gap. Incentivising local certification labs and digital validation platforms would also be a step in the right direction.

From risk to advantage

The move to intelligent systems marks a profound shift in functional safety. It demands new skills, new tools, and new mindsets.

For Maltese businesses, the opportunity is clear. Those who invest early in understanding AI compliance, build internal capacity, and embrace nextgeneration validation will stand out in the EU market as trustworthy, high-quality suppliers.

Compliance is no longer a formality. It is a strategic differentiator. In an era when machines can think for themselves, the smartest move for companies is to outthink the risk—and turn safety into a competitive edge.

TOP 10 TECH PRODUCTS OF 2025 ( )

Tech isn't just evolving—it's reshaping the rules. From quantum-ready chips to AI-first wearables, these 10 breakthrough products are redefining how we live, work, move, and connect. We've selected one game-changer from each major industry

spotlight what's truly innovative, not just

1. Framework Laptop 12 Industry: Personal Computing

Why it matters: A modular 2-in-1 laptop that champions repairability, circular design, and user upgradeability, in a market flooded with glued-together machines, Framework dares to make sustainable computing cool. frame.work

2. NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5090 Industry: Graphics & AI Hardware

Why it matters: Powered by the new Blackwell architecture, this GPU redefines speed for gamers and AI engineers alike. Expect breakthroughs in real-time rendering, generative design, and large model training. nvidia.com

3. BMW Panoramic Vision HUD (iDrive 9)

Industry: Automotive Tech

Why it matters: This windshield-wide AR display transforms driving into a seamless visual experience, projecting navigation, safety prompts, and media into your natural line of sight. bmw.com

4. Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 Industry: Mobile Technology

Why it matters: Foldables have matured. The Z Fold 7 is slimmer, smarter, and supercharged with Gemini AI, making multitasking a tactile delight. samsung.com

5. Netgear Nighthawk RS500 Pro Industry: Networking

Why it matters: Among the first Wi-Fi 7 routers to hit shelves. With ultra-low latency and 10Gbps wired speeds, it's ready for multi-device homes and next-gen gaming. netgear.com

6. Ring Battery Doorbell Pro

Industry: Smart Home / IoT

Why it matters: The addition of radarpowered 3D motion detection is a significant leap in false alert filtering. It's the brainiest security upgrade yet. ring.com

7. Humane AI Pin

Industry: AI Wearables / Spatial Computing

Why it matters: After a rocky debut, the refined 2025 version of the Humane AI Pin is now quietly reshaping the interface between humans and machines. It's screenless, voice-first, and always-on, projecting contextual information onto your palm and using GPT-class models to answer, act, and assist in real time. As tech moves beyond phones, the AI Pin signals the start of a new interaction paradigm. hp-iq.com

8. Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 Ultra Industry: Health Tech

Why it matters: With features like vascular load tracking and antioxidant monitoring, this goes beyond fitness. It's a glimpse into biomarker-led preventative health. samsung.com

9. Apple Vision Pro 2 (2025)

Industry: Spatial Computing / Mixed Reality

Why it matters: Apple's second-generation Vision Pro refines the spatial computing experience with a lighter chassis, better battery life, and deeper integration with productivity tools. With the addition of eyetracking shortcuts, 3D multitasking, and its own App Store ecosystem, the Vision Pro 2 is less concept and more creator-ready, bringing immersive computing closer to mainstream adoption. apple.com

10. AMD Ryzen AI 300 Series (Strix Point) Industry: Semiconductors

Why it matters: This next-gen chip powers the new wave of "AI PCs" blending on-device LLMs with battery efficiency. Microsoft Copilot+ runs natively, opening a new frontier in personal AI computing. amd.com

1. Insta360 GO 3S

Industry: Action & Lifestyle Cameras

Why it stands out: The tiniest action cam in the world now shoots in 4K, with enhanced stabilisation, magnetic mounting, and AIpowered editing in-app—adventure-sized content in your pocket. insta360.com

2. PlayStation Portal 2 (expected late 2025)

Industry: Gaming

Why it stands out: Sony levels up its remote play handheld with a sharper OLED screen, haptic controls, and complete cloud gaming support. It’s no longer just a PS5 accessory— it’s a standalone portal to your digital universe. playstation.com

3. Withings BeamO

Industry: Health Gadgets

Why it stands out: A 4-in-1 medical device that reads your temperature, ECG, heart rate, and oxygen levels, and can even act as a stethoscope. It’s the first truly pocket-sized clinic. withings.com

4. Sony WH-1000XM6

Industry: Consumer Audio

Why it stands out: Sony’s latest flagship headphones come with adaptive spatial audio, smart ambient tuning, and the new “AwareSpeak” mode, which automatically lowers volume and reads facial cues when someone talks to you. It’s ANC with actual intelligence. sony.com

5. CMF Watch Pro 2 (by Nothing)

Industry: Smartwatches

Why it stands out: A £70/€80 smartwatch with ChatGPT built in, dual-band GPS, and a metal chassis. It proves you don’t need to overspend to get features that punch above their price tag. mt.nothing.tech

Top 10 Gadgets of

6. DJI Avata 2

Industry: Consumer Drones

Why it stands out: This palm-sized FPV drone is beginner-friendly, cinematic, and immersive. With a new head-tracking motion controller and 2.7K 120fps video, it’s a dream for creators on the move. dji.com/mt/avata-2

7. Bose Ultra Open Earbuds

Industry: Wearable Audio

Why it stands out: These wraparound earbuds don’t go inside your ear, offering complete audio transparency and spatial audio without blocking the world. Think AirPods meet sci-fi headgear—no pressure, all presence. bose.com

8. Anker Solix F3800

Industry: Energy Tech / Outdoor

Why it stands out: The world’s first homebackup battery that doubles as a portable EV charger. With smart app control and solar compatibility, it’s your energy grid in a box. ankersolix.com

9. Ora Graphene Heated Jacket

Industry: Wearable Tech

Why it stands out: Powered by graphene and AI-driven sensors, this heated jacket autoadjusts its warmth based on activity and weather. Stylish, washable, and wirelessly rechargeable. Arctic-proof meets fashionforward.

weargraphene.com

10. Logitech MX Ink Stylus

Industry: Productivity / Spatial Interfaces

Why it stands out: Designed for Apple Vision

Pro and XR headsets, this stylus blends physical sketching with 3D environments. It’s the creative tool of the spatial age. logitech.com

Gadgets are the heartbeat of consumer tech. They’re what you touch, wear, ride, and rely on.

In 2025, they’re smarter, smaller, and more stylish than ever. We’ve curated 10 groundbreaking gadgets—each from a different industry—that are making life more connected, creative, and unexpectedly fun.

Style Upgrade

From wireless charging trays to precision chronographs, these curated pieces fuse cutting-edge functionality with impeccable design, perfect for men who want their style to keep pace with their fast-paced lives.

10 Fashion Picks for the Modern Man

1. RAPPORT LONDON

Lacquered wood wireless charging tray

€435

2. RICK OWENS

Ramones rubber-trimmed leather sneakers

€745

3. AGOLDE

Slater straight-leg pleated cotton-twill trousers

€360

4. ORLEBAR BROWN

Maitan camp-collar printed linen shirt

€415

5. A.P.C.

Livio ribbed cotton polo shirt

€220

6. BENNETT WINCH

Logo-debossed full-grain leather weekend bag

€2,150

7. ORLEBAR BROWN

Bulldog straight-leg mid-length printed recycled swim shorts

€345

8. NIKE

Tech-tapered nylon cargo trousers

€175

Cotton-jersey t-shirt

€220

Black Bay chrono St Black 41mm

€5,390 / elcol.com

'VIBE CODING' EMERGES AS A HOT NEW AI DEVELOPMENT TREND

"Vibe coding," a term coined by OpenAI cofounder Andrej Karpathy, is gaining traction in software development. It refers to AI-assisted coding that allows users—including nonexperts—to generate prototype code through prompts quickly. Leading companies such as Redis, Visa, Reddit, and DoorDash are now

seeking developers versed in this method, while platforms like Airtable have relaunched with an AI-native approach. Funding for the concept is surging, highlighted by Anysphere's $900 million Series C. Yet industry leaders caution: the code produced often suffers from errors, poor architecture, and verbosity. Executives recommend using vibe coding primarily for prototyping, with robust human oversight still essential, as "seemingly working" code may conceal hidden flaws.

MALTA EXCELS IN AI AND

DIGITALISING PUBLIC SERVICES

The 2025 Digital Decade Country Report highlights Malta as a leader in AI adoption and

business digitalisation. The country scores highly in the digital transformation of public services, surpassing many EU peers. However, the report also flags a significant challenge: the shortage of ICT specialists, which may hinder further progress. Addressing this

skills gap is essential to sustain Malta's digital momentum and ensure balanced growth across both public and private sectors.

FROM EXPO FLOOR TO REAL ECONOMY: WHAT SIGMA MEANS FOR MALTA

Next month's SiGMA Euro-Med conference will once again flood Malta with more than 12,000 delegates, 400 exhibitors, and global tech leaders. For three days, the island transforms into a buzzing expo floor of AI showcases, blockchain pitches, and gaming innovation. But the real story isn't what happens in the halls of the Mediterranean Maritime Hub—it's what Malta does with the aftershock.

SiGMA has the scale and star power to capture global attention, but Malta's challenge is to ensure that the spotlight translates into longterm economic value. Beyond the networking lounges and VIP galas lies an opportunity to attract investment, seed local start-ups, and position Malta as a credible hub in the digital economy. The danger is that the country remains a stage for international players without nurturing its ecosystem.

This year should be a turning point. Suppose policymakers and entrepreneurs leverage SiGMA to address talent shortages, infrastructure, and regulatory clarity. In that case, the event can be remembered not just as another global gathering, but as the moment Malta began closing the gap between expo hype and economic reality.