SiGMA Euro-Med 2025 kicks off with SiGMA Awards

SiGMA Euro-Med 2025 opened on September 1 at the Hilton Malta with the annual SiGMA Awards, powered by PG SOFT. This year’s ceremony introduced a new category, the Hall of Game, created to honour the pioneers who built Malta’s iGaming regulatory framework and set global benchmarks for compliance and governance.

The Hall of Game honoured several pioneers of Malta’s iGaming industry. Among them was Joe Zammit Maempel, the first Chairperson of the Lotteries and Gaming Authority (LGA), who established Malta’s initial gaming framework and set the stage for international success. Michael Frendo, a legal consultant and co-architect of Malta’s first gaming regulations, was also recognised for his foresight in balancing policy with global opportunity.

Vince Farrugia, former Director of the Public Lotto, received recognition for signing Malta’s first-ever iGaming licence, a milestone that opened a new era for the sector. Michael Zammit, Director at CSB Group, was honoured for organising some of Malta’s earliest gaming expos and supporting industry growth. Meanwhile, Olga Finkel, a legal consultant, was acknowledged for drafting early regulations and later playing a central role in Malta’s 2018 regulatory reform.

Also inducted was George Mangion, Director at PKF, who guided operators through the licensing process and helped shape industry compliance practices. Tony Axisa, co-author of the Remote Gaming Regulations, was celebrated for establishing technical and regulatory standards that remain in place today.

Recognition was also given to Manuel Bonnici, co-founder of Belmed, who developed Malta’s first gaming data centre, providing vital infrastructure for the sector. George Debrincat, a founding member of the Malta Remote Gaming Council, was honoured for his leadership in securing the first LGA licences and promoting best practices.

The Hall of Game further recognised John Dalli, Malta’s former Minister of Finance, for overseeing the introduction of the country’s first gaming regulations, and Mario Galea, the first CEO of the LGA and co-author of the Remote Gaming Regulations, whose leadership positioned Malta as a global regulatory leader in online gaming.

Speaking on behalf of the honourees, Galea reflected on Malta’s early iGaming journey, noting the uncertainty at the time. “No one knew what online gaming was, let alone having a workforce ready for it. Very few believed that this could become an industry for Malta. But those who did, are here with me tonight.”

He highlighted the landmark 2004 Remote Gaming Regulations, which set global standards in responsible gaming, player fund safeguarding, certification, and anti-money laundering practices.

“For me it has been a privilege to work in this industry,” said Galea. “Tonight we say thank you to everyone who believed, who worked and everyone who continues to carry this vision forward.”