Former Chamber President Warns: Be Wary of Big Promises
Former Chamber President Sounds Warning on Promises
Standing at the bustling Republic Street in Valletta, a stone’s throw from the Grandmaster’s Palace, former Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Enterprise President, Marisa Xuereb, offered a stark warning to the public. “Be wary of those who promise a lot,” she cautioned, her voice steady against the city’s hum.
Xuereb, who helmed the Chamber from 2017 to 2021, was speaking at a recent event hosted by the Malta Chamber of SMEs. Her words, simple yet powerful, echoed a sentiment that has been resonating among Malta’s business community and beyond, especially in these uncertain times.
Promises vs. Reality
Xuereb’s warning is not without cause. In recent years, Malta has seen its fair share of grand promises, from political manifestos to business proposals. Yet, the reality often falls short. Take, for instance, the much-hyped ‘Malta of the Future’ vision, which while ambitious, has faced criticism for lacking concrete details and timelines.
In the business realm, startups and established companies alike have been guilty of overpromising. Remember the much-touted cryptocurrency exchange that promised to revolutionize Malta’s financial sector? It folded within a year, leaving investors and the public with little more than a lesson learned.
Why Promises Fall Short
Xuereb attributes the gap between promise and reality to several factors. “Often, it’s a lack of understanding of the local context,” she explained. “Malta is unique, with its own set of challenges and opportunities. What works elsewhere may not here.”
She also pointed to the tendency to focus on the big picture at the expense of the details. “Grand visions are important, but they need to be backed up by solid planning and execution. That’s where many promises fall apart,” she said.
Xuereb believes that the pressure to deliver quick results can lead to inflated promises. ” world, everyone wants immediate results. But sustainable success takes time and careful planning,” she noted.
Navigating the Promisescape
So, how can we navigate this ‘promisescape’? Xuereb suggests a healthy dose of skepticism. “Don’t dismiss all promises out of hand, but approach them with a critical eye,” she advised. “Ask questions. Demand details. And remember, if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.”
She also encourages the public to engage in open dialogue with those making the promises. “We all have a role to play in shaping our future. So, let’s not shy away from asking tough questions and offering constructive feedback,” she said.
Xuereb’s warning is a timely reminder as Malta continues to grapple with its share of challenges and opportunities. Whether it’s political promises or business proposals, it’s up to us, the public, to hold those in power accountable and ensure that promises translate into tangible, sustainable results.
