Policymakers' understanding of the holistic nature and implications of sustainable development (SD) determines a nation's commitment to sustainability. The study involved in-depth interviews with 20 policymakers. The study identified underlying interconnections between policymakers' perceptions, commitment and awareness of SD and whether they developed the necessary values and attitudes required to promote sustainability at both local and national levels. These findings provided reflections for the development of Education for Sustainable Development programmes targeting policy makers to expedite implementation of SD in Malta.