In its editorial of July 29, Times of Malta wrote: “It looks as if the Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry is reinvigorating itself....”

In its document outlining its economic vision for Malta, the Chamber wisely noted that: “One singular flawed characteristic of Malta that checks the country from outpacing its competitors - as Singapore has managed to do - is the inability to instil a culture of excellence and quality within the national psyche.”

How true and to the point! For corruption was and still is rampant in every sector of society. Bribery, blackmail and extortion are common. Meritocracy is often transformed into nepotism and honesty is frowned upon as utter foolishness. In fact, although Malta prides itself on being very religious (check out the great number of churches), its spiritual culture is morally and ethically bankrupt for it has no sense of fairness, honesty or justice. It is, as Vernon Coleman of People magazine in the UK once told us, “a nation of liars, petty thieves and crooks”.

Perhaps the editor should note that the reason why Singapore outpaced its competitors was that its leader, Lee Kwan Yew, was a stern dictator who forced his people into submission with his quasi-Nazi style discipline. Anyone who was caught spitting in the street was liable to a fine of $1,000. Therefore, the Chamber ought to take note and suggest some such forms of discipline adequate to the temperament of the somewhat rebellious Maltese people.

My suggestion is for dishonesty and perjury to be punished severely. A good dose of honesty can only do good to the Maltese psyche. Perhaps a Minister for Honesty ought to be added to the Cabinet.