‘Be wary of those who promise a lot’, former Chamber president warns

Malta’s business scene is buzzing with activity, yet amidst the hum of progress, a veteran voice echoes a cautionary note. “Be wary of those who promise a lot,” warns former Malta Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Enterprise President, Marthese Portelli. Her words, spoken at a recent business forum in Valletta’s historic Auberge de Provence, have sparked a conversation that’s reverberating through the island’s corporate corridors.

Promises in the Air

Malta’s economic growth has been the envy of Europe, with GDP per capita soaring and unemployment plummeting. Yet, as the country prepares to take on the EU presidency in 2017, some worry that the pace of progress might be outstripping the island’s capacity to deliver. Portelli’s warning, therefore, is not just timely, but also a timely reminder of the challenges that lie ahead.

“We’ve seen many a project promise the moon and the stars,” says Portelli, recalling her years at the helm of the Chamber. “But delivering on those promises is another story. We need to ensure that our expectations match our capabilities.”

Lessons from the Past

Portelli points to past projects that promised much but delivered little. The proposed gas-fired power station in Delimara, for instance, has been on the cards for years, yet remains unbuilt. Similarly, the long-awaited extension of the Marsa Sports Complex has been delayed time and again. “These are not isolated incidents,” she says. “They’re symptoms of a broader issue.”

She argues that the focus should shift from grand promises to sustainable, achievable goals. “We need to set realistic targets and work towards them steadily. That’s how we’ll truly move Malta forward.”

Portelli’s warning resonates with many in Malta’s business community. “She’s right,” says Joseph Fenech, CEO of a local manufacturing firm. “We need to be more realistic about what we can achieve. It’s not about promising the world; it’s about delivering what we can.”

Yet, others see her words as a call to action rather than a cause for concern. “It’s a challenge,” says Simon Azzopardi, a young entrepreneur. “But it’s also an opportunity. If we can deliver on our promises, we can truly set Malta apart.”

As Malta steps into the global spotlight, all eyes are on the island to deliver. The challenge, as Portelli warns, is not just to promise big, but to deliver bigger.