In a competitive world that grows smaller by the minute and where making oneself known is so much linked to success, our small country cannot do without advertising and publicising itself.

The unfortunate thing is that some people seem to limit accomplishment to financial gain. Were it not so we would not miss an opportunity to promote our culture.

A case in point is the recent Joseph Calleja concert held at Luxol grounds. Judging by the number of people who attended, the much-marketed event was surely a success, more so when the audience actively participated by singing with the stars.

The only thing that was lacking was our Maltese language. Despite the fact that a number of international hits were interpreted in different languages, no Maltese composition was included in the internationally-acclaimed tenor’s repertoire.

Of course, I am not blaming Calleja for this shortcoming in the programme, because I know for certain that he has Malta’s culture so much at heart. But I would surely blame the organisers who failed all those Maltese citizens who grasp every opportunity to speak well of our native language.

Adding insult to injury, the event took place in Malta and the majority of the performers and the audience were Maltese.

It is not my intention to laud our language but it surely is to draw the attention of those who have similar events in the pipeline, not to repeat the gaffe. Let us all make a concerted effort to be and live as Maltese.