Engaging Communities: Co-Creating a Shared Vision

Central to the project is public engagement and collaboration with existing sustainable mobility initiatives. By involving the community in co-creating Malta’s transport future, the initiative aims to foster collective ownership of solutions and drive a cultural shift toward sustainable practices.

The recent publication of the Malta Bus Reborn has already inspired dialogue, with further insights gathered at Science in the City informing the project’s ongoing development.

Over the next two and a half years, the project will:

• Research and pilot test key routes with community input.
• Prototype an electric bus and elevated cycling lanes.
• Launch a national tour to showcase prototypes and engage communities across Malta.

Wilfred Kenely, CEO of RIDT, highlights the significance of this collaboration: “The Regenerative Multimodal Transport System is more than just infrastructure—it’s a transformative vision. We invite citizens, businesses, and organizations to join us in creating a more connected future for Malta.”

Driving Change: A Phased Approach

The initiative adopts a phased implementation plan to minimise disruption while addressing Malta’s congestion crisis. The first phase prioritises:

• A Bus Rapid Transit System operated with electric buses.
• Elevated cycling lanes to promote active mobility.
• Pedestrian-first infrastructure for safer, greener urban spaces.
• Shared vehicle lanes designed for future autonomous vehicles.

Subsequent phases will incorporate AI-driven traffic solutions and dynamic route optimisation, ensuring the transport system adapts to evolving needs.

Prof. Maria Attard and Prof. Alexei Dingli, leading researchers from the University of Malta, are at the forefront of sustainable mobility and AI integration within the project.

Reviving Heritage and Creating Jobs

At the heart of the initiative lies the Malta Bus Reborn, a reimagined icon blending heritage with innovation. Initially launched in 2019, the project proposes locally assembling electric buses, reviving Malta’s legacy of bus building while creating job opportunities.

The plan also includes elevated cycling lanes and sustainable construction techniques, drawing inspiration from successful EU models like those in the Netherlands and Barcelona.

Jonathan Mizzi, founder of Mizzi Studio, emphasises: “The Malta Bus Reborn is more than a nostalgic nod to our past—it’s a symbol of our potential to embrace a sustainable future. With Malta’s growing population and rising tourist numbers, expanding our public transport system is essential to provide cleaner air, shorter commutes, and less congestion.”

A Call to Action

The Regenerative Multimodal Transport System invites stakeholders from all sectors to support its vision for a connected, sustainable Malta. By leveraging EU funding and working hand-in-hand with the government, the project aims to deliver immediate benefits while building a resilient future.

For collaboration and support, contact [email protected] or [email protected]. Let’s not miss the bus on this opportunity to transform Malta’s transport system and reconnect the island.

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