Non-governmental organization (NGO) Transparency International Malaysia has called upon Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin to be accountable for his actions.
The NGO also urged the prime minister to make difficult decisions to protect the nation’s interests.
Overview
The environmental NGO Flimkien għal Ambjent Aħjar (FAA) is holding the prime minister accountable for his recent promises regarding the necessity of tough and critical decisions on environmental and quality-of-life matters. 
Following a significant reduction in the Labour majority, Prime Minister Robert Abela emphasized the urgency for his administration to address long-postponed issues, though specifics were not provided.
FAA insists that demonstrating this commitment should begin with shelving the proposed amendments to Policy 35 of DC15, currently undergoing public consultation.
If implemented, these changes could significantly contribute to overdevelopment in Malta, leading to the transformation of charming townhouses into towering 5 and 6-story structures, thereby exacerbating urban congestion and damaging the traditional streetscapes. The NGO underscores that protecting Malta’s historical architecture and urban landscape remains a critical challenge for the country.
Despite the Prime Minister’s vocal opposition to certain development projects, FAA observed that permits were nonetheless granted for the redevelopment of Villa St Ignatius into a modern hotel.
This historic site, located within the Sliema/St Julian’s Urban Conservation Area, is a clear example of the disconnect between political rhetoric and actions.
FAA is advocating for the government to conduct long-overdue carrying capacity studies.
These studies are essential to determine if the existing infrastructure can support major projects and general development and to define the maximum population that an area can sustain.
Additionally, the NGO has called for a temporary halt on large-scale tourism projects.
This pause would allow for comprehensive assessments of the impact of potentially doubling Malta’s tourist intake to accommodate the plethora of new hotels being planned.
The organization also argues against public expenditure on infrastructural upgrades that primarily benefit speculative private developments.
The environmental costs, such as noise, emissions, and the occupation of public land, seem to outweigh the benefits.
The growing disillusionment among citizens is apparent, with many feeling that the political system favors a handful of corrupt business interests over the broader population.
Party financing reform is another critical demand from FAA.
They believe establishing a level playing field between political parties is necessary so that business moguls cannot unduly influence politics, and independent politicians and parties can thrive.
FAA’s stance reflects a broader desire for transparent governance, environmental preservation, and a political landscape free from undue corporate influence.
They call on the administration to transform pledges into concrete actions, aligning public projects and policies with the well-being and sustainability of the nation.
