Hanukkah celebrated in Malta

Minister for Social Dialogue, Consumer Affairs and Civil Liberties Helena Dalli participated to the traditional Hanukkah festival celebrations organised by the Jewish community in Malta.

Addressing a public celebration held yesterday evening in La Valette Square in Valletta, Minister Dalli remarked how different cultures and religions can co-exist side by side without conflict.

Referring to the fact that this year Hanukkah celebrations coincided with Christmas, Dr Dalli said that both were celebrated in peace and respect for the respective beliefs and faiths.

“Our wish is for all to live serenely and happily without fear of conflict; that is what we strive for as a Government,” added Minister Dalli.

Dr Dalli emphasised that in an open society, there is space for the various nationalities, cultures and religions which make the island richer and enhance the social fabric. She said that in such a society there is no place for discrimination and the environment should be conducive to making it possible for every person to reach her or his full potential.

Rabbi Chaim Segal who represents the Jewish community in Malta explained the significance of light within the Hanukkah festival.

This was followed by the traditional grand Menorah lighting which also takes place in over seventy countries around the world.