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I have been in Malta for almost 7 years. Since I have dark hair, a beard and I'm neither translucent or very dark skinned I'm usually approached by locals in Maltese as I pass off as Maltese.
But let's not ignore the issue that racism is on the rise. Not only have I been involved in a lot of awkward conversations with locals about all the foreigners are destroying the country, I have also witnessed open racism, not only against African immigrants but also aimed towards Scandinavian looking people. I have therefor started asking coworkers if they have experienced racism and the majority of to more Northern European looking ones have had their fair share.
If you read Times of Malta you will also be aware of several issues such the refugee who was shot, politicians stating that 'Maltese shouldn't do menial jobs, so immigrant should do it' or the priest who praised a Nazi sympathizer. Not to forget the pork sandwich incident at the only mosque on the island a few years ago.
Don't get me wrong, over all Maltese are very friendly and hospitable, but there is a dark side of Maltese culture that is not discussed that often. The faster the development (supported by EU funds, escalated by greedy businessmen) the more pushback.
So if you're dark-skinned, or blonde or don't pass off as Maltese it might not all be 'positive vibes only'.

NOTE: yes, I'm aware it's not only a Maltese problem.