The “wave of racism” spreading across the country does not tally with the island’s cultural heritage, Education Minister Evarist Bartolo said.

Addressing the launch of a children’s book mapping out Malta’s 35-million-year history, Mr Bartolo called for unity in the face of racial tensions. 

Some 257 migrants were brought to Malta last week, bringing the total number of arrivals so far this year to 565.

Mr Bartolo said Malta’s cultural identity had been extracted from a long history of foreign occupation, which had created a blend of cultures. This, he said, contrasted sharply with the public reaction to the island’s migrant influx.

“Our society is built upon diversity through culture,” he said.

Published by Heritage Malta, the illustrated history book - The first 35 million years of my life, was presented to a group of students from the St Paul’s Bay Skola Sajf - a centre with the highest ethnic diversity on the island. 

Gesturing towards the group of students, Mr Bartolo said projects like the history book would help build a stronger cultural identity within an evolving society.

Justice Minister Owen Bonnici also attended the book launch. He called for unity, but of a political nature. Referring to the numerous national anniversaries Malta will celebrate this year, Dr Bonnici said he hoped society would be able to look beyond the political colouring of the island’s history.

“People from different political sides have a different view of history. We want this year’s celebrations to bring us together,” he said.