Malta live TV

About TV in Malta

Malta’s television culture is a fascinating study in how a small, bilingual nation crafts its broadcast identity. With just a handful of domestic channels, the market is incredibly intimate, putting a strong emphasis on local content and public service. English and Maltese coexist as broadcast languages, with much of the international English-language programming, especially British imports, presented with Maltese subtitles rather than being dubbed. This offers a clear contrast to larger European neighbors like Italy or France, which favor full dubbing. You’ll find local productions, often discussion panels, current affairs, and Maltese-language dramas, taking prominent slots in primetime. Public broadcaster PBS anchors the scene with its generalist channel TVM, serving as a central hub for news, entertainment, and cultural programming. What truly sets Malta apart from many European markets, however, is the significant role of politically affiliated channels like NET Television and ONE, run by the major political parties. This creates a distinct, often spirited, media landscape where news and opinion programming can carry a clear party line. The inclusion of a dedicated 'Legislative' channel also highlights a commitment to civic engagement through broadcast, offering direct access to parliamentary proceedings. While domestic sports coverage is limited to highlights, many Maltese homes access a wider array of international channels via satellite, particularly for popular English Premier League football or Italian Serie A matches, thanks to the island's proximity to Italy.