Design & Build 08 | Page 27

Design the MDA: a reflection of the industry’s voice The Association has written history. Starting off dur- ing a period of recession, this industry has evolved to become an important con- tributor to the economy. Despite being of a some- what controversial nature, the industry has experi- enced the biggest boom the country has ever seen. This has been made clear from the study commissioned to KPMG the results of which will give stakeholders a clearer outlook. If we want the economy to keep growing as it is today, then we need solutions. We cannot afford to let the econo- my stop Mr Chetcuti however was strong in stressing that the industry cannot press the fig- urative ‘pause’ button. Malta’s competitiveness must remain strong as Malta is competing against the rest of the world. By pressing ‘pause’ Malta would regress. Nevertheless, although the momentum needs to be kept, the industry must keep working on enhancing professionalism in its operations. Mr. Chetcuti reiterated the importance of joining forces to work together on saving the inher- ent character of Malta’s villages, thus avoiding another Bugibba or Qawra. WWW.DESIGNANDBUILD.COM.MT Whilst local authorities are doing their utmost to cope with the influx of business the industry has been ex- periencing, the processes are bureaucratic and result in frustrating delays. Au- thorities need to be more efficient. Sandro Chetcuti Mr Chetcuti admitted that at times his criticism might be rough but it is all a result of his passion and deter- mination to make the industry work. Presenting strong arguments are all about avoiding mistakes. The Associ- ation is a reflection of the industry’s voice. Stakeholders, he stressed, are not afraid of competition – as long as things are fair and carried out within a level playing field. The way forward for the Association is to keep the momentum going, keep working passionately, learn from its mistakes, put aside partisan politics and work closely with both govern- ment and opposition. Sandro Chetcuti’s fiery pas- sion, as well as the unbridled commitment of the MDA council in general, for the sustainable growth of the industry were clearly shown during the Association’s General Meeting. Not afraid to make their voice heard, the Association has proven that having the country at heart is indispensable to having the industry at heart, and that its ob- jectives are to ensure that Malta will be developed sustainably for the years to come. ISSUE 08 25