'Immersive' Malta Vision 2050 experience to open near Triton Fountain

An immersive experience showcasing the government's Malta Vision 2050 is set to open in the coming weeks near the Triton Fountain in Valletta.

A large blue structure caught the attention of commuters and visitors making their way in and out of Valletta on Monday. Government officials said the structure is a temporary pavilion designed to host the 15-minute immersive experience aimed at audiences of all ages.

The pavilion will allow members of the public to engage with and better understand the long-term national strategy outlined in Malta Vision 2050.

What part of the immersive experience will look like Photo: Envision 2050

“The story will base itself on the experience of two children who shall witness  the Vision by exploring the future of Malta. The Maltese national bird – the Blue Rock Trush (Il-Merill), will accompany them on their quest as they unlock the different Pillars of the Vision,” a spokesperson for the Office of the Prime Minister said.

The spokesperson said the experience will be free of charge and is expected to open in the coming weeks, coinciding with the official launch of Malta Vision 2050. It will be available for the public for several months after the launch. 

The pavilion will be covered in a special material that shall reflect its surroundings," the spokesperson said. A temporary traffic management system will be in place. 

What part of the immersive experience will look like Photo: Envision 2050

A consultation document for Malta Vision 2050 was released in April last year. It set out a long-term plan for the country’s development over the next 25 years, including a commitment to slow down the pace of construction and place greater emphasis on sectors such as financial services, high-end manufacturing and aviation.

The Vision pledged to deliver a “healthy quality of life for all,” including a shift in the country’s economic model towards seven key sectors, which are expected to grow by 140% over the next decade.

These sectors — shipping, aviation, financial services, high-end manufacturing, tourism, gaming and construction — are projected to be worth €18 billion by 2035, more than double the current €7 billion, according to government estimates.

While the economy is expected to continue growing, the Vision also anticipates a slower and more sustainable pace than the rapid expansion experienced over the past decade.