Raymond Chetcuti, known to many as Ray and a familiar face to viewers of the programme Niskata, has passed away at the age of 66.His death has saddened those who knew and worked with him, as well as the many viewers who welcomed him into their homes through Niskata over the years.Until three years ago, Chetcuti served as Director General for Financial Assistance and Compliance, and after retiring from the public service, he continued offering his expertise as a consultant to Malta’s Department of Social Security.For many years, he was also a regular contributor on Niskata alongside Angela Agius, where he provided information about social benefits and answered questions from viewers who called or sent messages to the programme.Angela Agius paid tribute to him through the Niskata Facebook page, saying that the programme had lost “another truly special person for us”.She described Ray as “a humble man with a big heart and a kindness you could never forget”, adding that the goodness he showed to so many people had left a lasting impact on countless lives.According to Agius, he was always ready to help, offer advice and give generously of himself, “without fanfare and without ever expecting anything in return”.She particularly highlighted his contribution to Niskata, where for years he joined the programme weekly to explain social benefits and answer viewers’ questions.“I will always remember his smile, his humility and the kindness that was such a part of who he was,” Agius wrote.Agius said Ray was also a “beloved face of Niskata”, praising the patience and dedication with which he shared information.She noted that he always explained matters in a simple and clear way, and above all, with great compassion. “Thank you, Ray, for everything you gave to so many people and to us as well,” she wrote.She expressed her belief that his memory would live on in the hearts of all those fortunate enough to have known him.In its own tribute, the Department of Social Security Services and Benefits described Chetcuti as a humble, approachable and true gentleman, with a natural smile, a positive attitude and a great sense of humour.The department said he loved everyone and helped everyone, and that his greatest happiness came from seeing unity and people around him content.Ray was also remembered as a man of strong principles who understood the needs of people. Thanks to this understanding, he often provided valuable advice which, in some cases, even contributed to the introduction of new measures and policies.Among his favourite hobbies were fishing and gardening, subjects about which he had extensive knowledge.Above all, however, the department remembered him as “a model of integrity and an example of what a public official should be.”Angela Agius also extended her condolences to Ray’s colleagues within the Department of Social Security Services and Benefits, noting that he was considered part of their family.She expressed her condolences to his wife Mariella, his children Keith and Gayle, and the rest of his family, wishing them strength during this difficult time.The department likewise offered its condolences to his loved ones, especially his wife and children.“Thank you from the bottom of our hearts, Ray, for everything you gave to Social Security,” the department said, paying tribute to a man who dedicated many years of service to helping others.For those who knew him personally, as well as the viewers who saw him every week on Niskata, Ray will be remembered not only for his expertise in social security matters, but above all for his humility, kindness and willingness to help others.Lovin Malta extends condolences to all his relatives and loved ones.•