ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE ASSOCIATION PRESIDENT

Dear Members,

For the past forty years, AMACS has stood at the forefront of change in Malta’s fascinating world of target shooting, arms and militaria collecting and historical reenactment. Since our foundation on 12 June 1985, we have consistently driven progress, from advocating for sensible arms legislation to establishing standards that have shaped our community. What began as a passion shared by a few has grown into a respected institution within a community of thousands of licensees.

Through foresight and perseverance, we have achieved historic milestones, most notably influencing the Police Policy changes of 1996 and the introduction of the Arms Act of 2006, which AMACS proudly helped to conceive and draft. The licences you hold today, and the arms you lawfully own and enjoy at the range or in reenactment, bear witness to our achievement. Together, we transformed outdated, discretionary colonial laws into one of Europe’s most balanced and sensible legislative frameworks.

Our voice has also resonated beyond Malta. Through our active participation in European bodies such as FESAC and ESSF, AMACS has contributed to the protection of sport shooters, collectors, reenactors and even museums during key reforms to the EU Arms Directives in 2008 and 2017. We ensured that responsible ownership and use of arms remain recognised and respected at European level.

However, we must not grow complacent. In this field, vigilance is vital. We have seen other nations that were once proud of their traditions of lawful arms ownership and use sadly succumb to over-restrictive and unfair regulations. We must remain alert and united in defending our community and its legitimate interests.

On a personal note, I wish to share an important announcement.

Having led AMACS for the past forty years, I look back with immense pride on what we have accomplished together. It has been a privilege and an honour to serve as your President, entrusted year after year with guiding this remarkable Association. The time has now come for me to retire from this role, while continuing to offer my full support and guidance to the next generation of leadership.

I therefore invite any member who feels ready and who possesses the dedication, integrity, and loyalty that AMACS stands for to reach out to me before the upcoming Annual General Meeting to discuss the way forward.

This is an open invitation. My endorsement will go to the individual best equipped to lead AMACS confidently into the next forty years.

With sincere gratitude and respect,

Stephen A. Petroni

President, AMACS