MITA has reaffirmed its commitment to driving Malta’s digital transformation and cybersecurity resilience through two major national events that brought together local and international experts, policymakers, and industry leaders. Both events highlighted Malta’s strategic vision of fostering innovation, interoperability, and digital trust across the public sector.
MITA organised a two-day national conference; Konferenza MITA which focused on the crucial themes of interoperability, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence (AI) within the context of public administration. The event was held in collaboration with representatives from the European Commission as well as local and international experts.
The first day with the focus – Gvern Digitali opened with welcoming remarks from Tony Sultana, the Principal Permanent Secretary, and Ing. Emanuel Darmanin, MITA’s Chief Executive Officer. Both speakers highlighted the importance of such initiatives in strengthening the public sector through digital modernisation, interoperable, and secure digital solutions.
The plenary session explored the European and national vision for interoperability, cybersecurity, and AI as essential pillars of digital transformation in government. Claudia Oliveira from the European Commission outlined how the Interoperable Europe initiative is fostering more connected and efficient governance across Member States. Jonathan Cassar, Chief Information Security Officer within MITA, discussed challenges and best practices in achieving cyber resilience, while Josianne Cutajar, former member of the European Parliament, addressed the evolving regulatory framework for AI and the opportunities it presents for the public sector.
In the thematic discussion titled “Data and AI: The Future of Government”, panellists from MITA, public and private sector exchanged insights on leveraging data and artificial intelligence to enhance public service delivery and advance intelligent governance.
Participants had the opportunity to engaged in a series of technical workshops covering key areas such as cybersecurity, interoperability, data management, and cloud technologies. These sessions provided practical insights into supply chain risk management, technological priorities across European public administrations, and emerging trends in the use of AI within the public sector.
The conference successfully fostered collaboration and knowledge exchange, reinforcing Malta’s position as a nation committed to building a secure, efficient, and innovative digital public sector.
Complementing MITA’s efforts to advance digital transformation, on the second day, the Agency hosted the seventh edition of CYBER ROOT, Malta’s premier national cybersecurity conference, which once again proved to be a resounding success. The event brought together nearly 500 participants, including cybersecurity professionals, industry leaders, policymakers, and members of the public, to explore the latest developments shaping the cybersecurity landscape.
This year’s edition focused on emerging cyber threats, the impact of AI and new technologies, EU cybersecurity legislation and policies, and strategies for building stronger, more resilient cybersecurity teams.
In his opening address, MITA’s Chief Executive Officer, Ing. Emanuel Darmanin, MITA’s Chief Executive Officer, delivered a strong call to action, urging continued investment in leadership, collaboration, and shared responsibility. He underscored that cybersecurity is not merely a technical issue, but a people-driven mission rooted in trust, decisive action, and collective strength. Additionally, the conference featured addresses by Joyce Dimech, Permanent Secretary for the Ministry for Home Affairs, Security and Employment, and Luca Tagliaretti, Executive Director of the European Cybersecurity Competence Centre.
A major highlight of CYBER ROOT 2025 was the launch of the CYBER AWARDS, an initiative designed to recognise and celebrate outstanding contributions to cybersecurity in Malta and within the National Cybersecurity Community. The awards mark an important milestone in acknowledging the innovation and dedication that drive the sector forward.
As preparations begin for CYBER ROOT 2026, MITA invites professionals, organisations, and stakeholders to register their interest and stay updated on next year’s conference, ticket availability, and early-bird opportunities.
Through these initiatives, MITA continues to champion Malta’s vision of a digitally empowered, secure, and innovative nation, fostering collaboration across sectors and enabling a smarter, more resilient digital future for all.
Written by: Sara Cassar, Senior Executive – Marketing and Communications and Melvin Farrugia Bonett, Senior Executive – National Cyber Security Coordination Centre Information Security & Governance Department