When discussing poverty, one tends to think in terms of basic human needs, such as shelter, food and clothing. I look at it from a different angle: I ask myself, what if Maltese people are suffering from a poor mentality?

This question may be posed on a variety of aspects of life, but as I am quite interested in Malta’s cultural heritage, I wonder whether the Maltese population actually appreciates and helps to retain Malta’s cultural heritage.

Is this nation aware of its history, which has moulded us into who we are today? One cannot be so clear-cut so as to give a yes or no answer, but I feel the Maltese do not appreciate their own culture or the art around them enough.

Art and culture are essential to this island; they have shaped who we have become, and many are unaware that they attract many tourists to Malta.

We have heard of many cases of vandalism throughout the past year – is this only the result of anger or also the result of a poor mentality?

As citizens, I do believe we should be proud of our history, culture and heritage.

We do love our island, but I believe we are still very far away from appreciating our identity.

Ms Gera is a third year student reading for a BA in History of Art (Hons).