What Languages Are Spoken In Malta

Bilingualism in Malta: Native Fluency in English and Maltese



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Both English and Maltese are official languages in Malta, shaping the island’s culture, government, and daily life.
People here speak fluently in both, making Malta a true bilingual society.
In Malta, English is omnipresent, used in institutions and informal exchanges alike.
This mix of languages reflects Malta’s unique history and current global ties.
Understanding how English is now considered a native language by many Maltese is key for grasping the island’s culture, education, and international business.
How did English gain such significance in Malta? Let’s examine its origins and potential.



"Combined with its cultural, historical and linguistic heritage, Malta also offers a pleasant and congenial climate, a safe and friendly environment, a high standard of living and an excellent quality of life. All this makes it an ideal place where to live and study English. In Malta, Maltese and English stand side by side as official languages both spoken fluently by a bilingual society..." — ELT Council Malta [1]


The Historical Evolution of English in Malta

How British Rule Introduced English


The relationship between Malta and English goes back centuries.
From 1800 to 1964, Malta was under British administration.
Throughout British governance, English assumed major roles in justice, business, and academia.
Schools began teaching in English, and government documents used the language.
Maltese preserved local identity, but English steadily gained sway.
A significant number of Maltese picked up English casually from British soldiers, merchants, and educators.


Language Policy in Malta after Independence


With independence, Malta strove to maintain its heritage and international outlook.
Officials chose to uphold both English and Maltese as national languages.
This decision enabled Malta to engage with international business and boost tourism.
In modern Malta, English is prevalent in legal proceedings, legislative bodies, and advanced studies.
Most university programs are delivered in English, underscoring its educational importance.
Bilingualism produced a distinctive system benefiting both Maltese citizens and guests.


How English Achieved Native Status in Malta

Language Habits of Maltese People


Local people often speak English like native speakers.
Urban centers such as Valletta and Sliema show this trend the most.
Youth commonly communicate in both English and Maltese at home and school.
Communities involved in tourism and business tend to favor English.
For some households, English becomes the main spoken language.


Recognition of English and Maltese in Law and Schools


Officially, Malta recognizes both Maltese and English as national languages.
This guarantees bilingualism in signage, government paperwork, and official messaging.
From the very beginning, schools build proficiency in English.
Students learn English alongside Maltese, preparing them for careers both locally and internationally.
Education aims for students to reach near-native English fluency.


The Effects of English Proficiency on Malta

Cultural Changes Brought by English


English influences Maltesers’ routines and lifestyle.
Maltese people consume foreign media and interact globally via English.
The population delights in combining traditions with global trends.
However, some wonder if this blend risks undermining Maltese heritage.
People are concerned that English will eclipse Maltese language and culture.
Nevertheless, most view English as a gateway to the global community.


How the Economy Benefits from English


Proficiency in English strengthens Malta’s expanding economy.
The tourist industry thrives since travelers can easily communicate with guides and read English signage.
International companies in finance and gaming hire those fluent in English.
The dual language environment draws multinational corporations to Malta.
Strong English abilities give job seekers an edge in Malta’s workforce.


Expert Perspectives


Authorities note that while bilingualism supports the economy, it has its own set of issues.
One educator commented, "English proficiency boosts Malta’s global image, but we must keep nurturing our native language too."
Educational authorities stress the need to combine high English standards with cultural preservation.


Challenges for English as a Native Tongue

Protecting Maltese amidst English Growth


There are fears that too much English use may dilute the native language.
Organizations focused on heritage worry about the loss of dialects and customs.
Could Malta become a place where only English matters?
This fear is particularly strong among seniors who cherish Malta’s linguistic heritage.


English’s Place in Maltese Schools


In the education sector, English is firmly established.
Post-1964 independence saw Malta maintain official status for English next to Maltese.
Today, English is the medium of instruction in many schools, particularly at the secondary and tertiary levels.
According to the National Statistics Office of Malta (NSO Malta) [2], around 90% of students are enrolled in schools where English is the primary language of instruction.



Higher education institutions, including the University of Malta, use English for nearly all degrees.
This has made Malta a magnet for international students and helped establish it as a learning center.
Degree programs span fields like law, engineering, and medicine, conducted fully in English.
This emphasis on English not only facilitates learning but also prepares students for a global workforce where English proficiency is often a prerequisite.


Looking Ahead: English and Maltese

The debate continues on how Malta should address these language issues.
Proposals arise to preserve Maltese even as English remains widely used.
Bilingual learning initiatives are on the rise.
Malta aims to balance English proficiency with preserving cultural roots.


How English Dominates Maltese Media


The influence of English extends beyond education into the media landscape.
A variety of Maltese media platforms produce mainly English content.
Important outlets — among them "Times of Malta" [3] and "Malta Today" [4] — serve both locals and expats through English articles.
Editorial content spans politics, culture, business, and more, mirroring Malta’s bilingual spirit.



Television and radio also play significant roles in disseminating information in English.
Stations such as TVM broadcast news and entertainment in both tongues, keeping everyone updated.
Having English and Maltese in media helps both languages thrive, supporting cultural exchange.


Finally


Malta’s historical development, economic growth, and community life rely on English.
It acts as a gateway for Malta to connect worldwide.
Yet, safeguarding the local language is still necessary.
Balancing English skills with pride in Maltese heritage is the best way ahead.
Malta’s bilingual future is secure with sound policy, strong education, and collective effort.
Nurturing both languages opens doors and preserves Malta’s distinctiveness.



Malta's status as a bilingual country with native proficiency in both Maltese and English is a testament to its unique cultural heritage and historical influences.
The prominence of English in education and media not only enhances communication within the country but also positions Malta as an attractive destination for international students and businesses alike.
By honoring both languages, Malta demonstrates the success of a dual-language society.




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