The Times of Malta: A Century of Journalistic Resilience
The story of The Times of Malta is inextricably linked with Allied Newspapers Limited, a publishing powerhouse that pioneered the printing industry and professional journalism in Malta starting in the 1920s. From its humble beginnings as a local supplement to its evolution into a Mediterranean news leader, the publication has mirrored the political and social transformations of the Maltese islands.
The Foundations of Maltese Journalism
The journey began with Gerald Strickland, who launched Malta's first evening newspaper in the Maltese language, Il-Progress. This four-page daily operated from its own printing offices at 10A, Strada Reale, Valletta. The legacy of this early venture continues today through the Progress Press Company Limited, formed in 1946, which retains the "Progress" name.
Bilingual journalism—the practice of publishing in both Maltese and English—was introduced on February 3, 1922, via an English supplement to Il-Progress. This supplement eventually evolved into The Times of Malta Weekly, the precursor to The Sunday Times of Malta. Meanwhile, the Maltese-language side underwent several name changes, transitioning from Ix-Xemx to Id-Dehen and finally to Il-Berqa (published January 29, 1932), before ceasing publication on November 30, 1968.
In February 1931, the operation moved to 341, St Paul Street, Valletta. This site became known as Strickland House and served as the headquarters for Allied Newspapers Limited for decades.
The Birth of a Daily National Newspaper
Recognizing a growing demand for English-language news, Lord Strickland sought to establish an English daily that maintained a high standard of public service. On August 7, 1935, The Times of Malta published its first issue in full cooperation with the British MI5. This launch occurred during a period of high international tension as Italy prepared for the invasion of Abyssinia.
Mabel Strickland, a founder member of Allied Malta Newspapers Limited and a member of the first Board of Directors, became the first editor of The Times of Malta on September 2, 1935. She also led The Sunday Times of Malta until 1950. Her tenure was followed by George Sammut (1950–1966), Anthony Montanaro (1966–1991), and Laurence Grech.
Enduring Conflict and Crisis
Originally the organ of the Constitutionalist political party, the paper evolved into a national newspaper known for objective reporting and strong editorial opinions. This resilience was most evident during World War II. Despite the siege years between 1940 and 1943, characterized by continuous bombing and severe shortages, the group never missed a single issue.
The commitment to publication persisted through subsequent decades of turmoil. Under editor Thomas Hedley, the paper covered the transition to Malta's Independence in 1964. Later, under Charles Grech Orr, the staff overcame industrial actions in 1973 and a devastating arson attack on October 15, 1979, known as "Black Monday." Although political arsonists burned the building down, forcing staff to evacuate, the following day's edition was printed at the Independence Press and delivered on schedule.
Modern Era and Digital Transition
In recent years, the publication has shifted its focus toward digital media. The website timesofmalta.com has emerged as a primary news source for Malta and a significant news hub for the Mediterranean region. As of June 2019, the editorial leadership consists of Editor-in-Chief Herman Grech, Online Editor Bertrand Borg, and Print Editor Mark Wood.
The organization has also faced legal challenges. In March 2021, former Allied Group director Adrian Hillman and former Progress Press chairman Vince Buhagiar were charged with fraud and money laundering. They are alleged to have conspired with Keith Schembri to defraud Progress Press of approximately €5.5 million through inflated machinery prices via the company Kasco.
Marking a new chapter in its physical history, the headquarters relocated from Valletta to Pietà in January 2026.
Key Facts
- Founded: August 7, 1935 (Daily English edition).
- First Editor: Mabel Strickland.
- Resilience: Never missed an issue during WWII (1940–1943) or after the "Black Monday" fire of 1979.
- Precursor: Started as an English supplement to the Maltese daily Il-Progress.
- Headquarters: Moved from Strickland House, Valletta to Pietà in January 2026.
| Date | Event / Publication | Significance |
|---|---|---|
| 1920s | Il-Progress | Malta's first evening newspaper in Maltese. |
| Feb 3, 1922 | English Supplement | Introduction of bilingual journalism in Malta. |
| Aug 7, 1935 | The Times of Malta | Launch of the English daily newspaper. |
| Oct 15, 1979 | Black Monday | Building destroyed by arson; publication continued. |
| Jan 2026 | Relocation | Headquarters moved from Valletta to Pietà. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Who founded the precursor to The Times of Malta?
Gerald Strickland founded Il-Progress, the first evening newspaper in Maltese, which later introduced the English supplement that evolved into The Times of Malta.
What was the significance of "Black Monday"?
Black Monday refers to October 15, 1979, when political arsonists burned down the newspaper's building. Despite this, the staff ensured the next day's paper was printed at another press and delivered on time.
Who was the first editor of The Times of Malta?
Mabel Strickland became the first editor on September 2, 1935, and also edited The Sunday Times of Malta until 1950.
Did the newspaper stop printing during World War II?
No. Despite continuous bombing and the hardships of the siege years between 1940 and 1943, none of the newspapers in the group ever missed an issue.
Where is the newspaper currently headquartered?
As of January 2026, the headquarters were relocated from their long-time location in Valletta to Pietà.