PRESS RELEASE BY THE PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARIAT FOR YOUTH, RESEARCH AND INNOVATION: The CONNECT project: Towards a national marine data system for the Maltese islands

Parliamentary Secretary Keith Azzopardi Tanti addressed the CONNECT Conference, which brought together national stakeholders, responsible entities, researchers, operators, and private enterprise to chart the way forward for Malta’s marine data ecosystem. The event focused on establishing a coordinated national system to streamline marine observations for monitoring, ecosystem services, research, industry, and security.

The conference, organised by MCAST under the coordination of Professor Aldo Drago, Malta’s national focal point for the UN/IOC and the Global Ocean Observing System (GOOS), featured expert presentations and interactive consultation sessions. Discussions set the pace for the design, planning, and funding of sustained marine observations to support sustainable development, safeguard marine resources, and unlock the full potential of Malta’s seas.

The CONNECT project, funded directly by the Parliamentary Secretariat for Research and Innovation, rests on three main pillars: building national competence in the marine sector, establishing a coordinated and synchronised approach to marine data, and delivering essential core data as a service.

In his opening remarks, the Parliamentary Secretary for Youth, Research and Innovation, Keith Azzopardi Tanti, highlighted that, “Malta is working towards a coordinated national plan for marine data production—one that meets the needs of stakeholders, adds value, strengthens the blue economy, and serves a knowledge-based society. Marine data is not just for research; it is the foundation of the information age, fuelling innovation, industry applications, and new economic opportunities.”

Tonio Portughese, Chairman of Xjenza Malta, said that, “The CONNECT project clearly demonstrates how Malta can realise a vision where science and policy work hand in hand for the benefit of the country. Marine knowledge is not only an investment in science, but also in the future of our society. Open data and international collaboration are essential pillars to strengthen the blue economy and ensure the wellbeing of future generations.”

Professor Aldo Drago stressed that, “A national marine data system will provide us with the tools to understand ecosystem health, manage our resources sustainably, and open new avenues for innovation and enterprise. CONNECT is more than a project: it is a commitment to put our seas at the heart of national policy, strengthen the link between science and decision-making, and empower research, innovation, and open data in the service of society. Guided by Malta Vision 2050, we are determined to lead by example in shaping a sustainable ocean future.”

MCAST Principal and CEO, Stephen Vella emphasised the educational dimension,

“The marine sector requires a highly skilled workforce in research, technology, digital systems, and services. At MCAST, we are preparing young talent with the scientific, technical, and engineering skills needed to meet rapidly evolving markets and seize new opportunities in marine and space research. With continued investment in our educational infrastructure, we are laying the foundation for the next generation of professionals who will drive innovation and industry growth.”

The conference welcomed more than 70 participants in person and attracted a strong international online audience. It was also supported by international partners including Mercator Ocean International, the Copernicus Marine Service, and JPI Oceans, underscoring Malta’s growing role in regional and European marine science and data initiatives.