Watch: Why the president uses a flip phone and never learnt to drive

Myriam Spiteri Debono says she doesn't like technology

President Myriam Spiteri Debono has revealed she prefers a basic flip phone over a smartphone, citing a dislike of technology and machines.

The 72-year-old head of state offered a glimpse into her personal life during her Times of Malta interview, admitting she has never owned a smartphone.

“I don’t really like technology and machines in general,” she admitted. This extends to her reluctance to drive.

“I gave it a try once, and by the end of the first driving lesson I got so frustrated that I swore I’d never drive again.”

President Myriam Spiteri Debono on why she prefers a flip phone and has never learnt to drive. Video: Karl Andrew Micallef

Her preference for a flip phone, she explained, serves a practical purpose.

“Sometimes I’m on the phone with someone and they start getting on my nerves. The beauty of a flip phone is the audible ‘click’ it makes when you close it to hang up.

"It puts my mind at rest that I’ve ended the call, and any lingering frustrations can be safely aired without the risk of being overheard,” she said jokingly.

Sign up to our free newsletters

Get the best updates straight to your inbox:

You can unsubscribe at any time by clicking the link in the footer of our emails. We use Mailchimp as our marketing platform. By subscribing, you acknowledge that your information will be transferred to Mailchimp for processing.