Imagine standing at the bustling Republic Street in Valletta, the sun beating down as you watch a politician or businessman, arms wide, promising the moon. Now, imagine that person is former Chamber of Commerce President, Marisa Xuereb. Her recent warning, “Be wary of those who promise a lot,” echoes through the historic streets, a stark reminder that not all shiny promises are made of gold.

From the Horse’s Mouth

Xuereb, who helmed the Chamber from 2017 to 2021, knows a thing or two about promises. She’s seen them made, broken, and remade. Her warning, issued at a recent business breakfast, was a call to discernment. “We’ve seen promises that were never kept,” she said, her voice echoing in the grand Salini Resort where the event was held. “We’ve seen projects that were announced with great fanfare, only to be abandoned or delayed.”

Promises, Promises: A Maltese Tale

Malta’s history is peppered with promises. From the British-era promises of progress to today’s promises of tech hubs and sustainable cities, we’ve heard them all. Some have materialized, like the Three Cities’ regeneration. Others, like the long-promised Marsa Sports Complex, remain elusive.

Xuereb’s warning isn’t about discouraging ambition. It’s about encouraging caution. “We should welcome big ideas,” she said, “but we should also ask tough questions. Where’s the money coming from? Who’s behind it? What’s the timeline? What’s the impact on the community?”

Promises and Politics: A Complex Dance

Promises are a politician’s currency. They’re also a double-edged sword. They can win votes, but they can also lose them if not kept. Xuereb’s warning comes at a time when Malta is preparing for general elections. Promises are already being made, and more will follow.

But promises aren’t just political. They’re also business. Developers promise new projects, new jobs, new life. But they also promise changes to the scene, to the community. Xuereb’s warning is a call to balance. “We need progress,” she said, “but we also need to protect what makes Malta, Malta.”

So, the next time you hear a big promise, remember Xuereb’s warning. Don’t be dazzled by the shine. Ask the tough questions. Demand the details. After all, it’s your city, your country, your future. You deserve to know the truth behind the promise.