DOULOS Hope is in Penang!
Experience the world’s second-largest international floating bookfair at Swettenham Pier Cruise Terminal from now until Aug 13. There are over 2,000 book titles to choose from onboard the ship!
Doulos Hope is operated by GBA Ships, a non-profit organisation based in Germany. It carries a crew of international volunteers dedicated to sharing their knowledge and helping people worldwide.
This year, Doulos Hope was launched into service and continues the legacy left by her sister ships – Logos, Doulos, Logos II, and Logos Hope. These vessels have visited over 150 countries and territories since 1970, welcoming 49 million people onboard. Currently, only Logos Hope and Doulos Hope are in service.
The ship’s master, Captain James Tom Dyer welcomed everyone onboard Doulos Hope during the opening ceremony of its ‘Doulos Hope Experience Deck’ this afternoon. The simple ceremony was attended by caretaker Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, his wife Tan Lean Kee, and caretaker Penang Social Development and Non-Islamic Religious Affairs Committee chairman Chong Eng.
Captain Dyer was the only person who served as master on all five of GBA Ships’ vessels – Logos, Doulos, Logos II, Logos Hope and Doulos Hope.
In his speech, he thanked his crew who came from different countries and cultural backgrounds.
Captain Dyer also invited the locals to take this opportunity to visit the vessel while she is in Penang.
Doulos Hope managing director Mark Knight also welcomed visitors to visit the ship.
“Besides checking out our books, you are invited to know us, the volunteers, and hear our stories,” Knight said.
Chow commended Doulos Hope for its impressive aspects.
“It has a vast collection of literature, comprising more than 2,000 titles suitable for readers of all ages. The rich collection will undoubtedly foster a reading culture and personal development among Penangites, especially the young generation.
“Beyond books, Doulos Hope will also host various events such as seminars, conferences, and educational programmes onboard and onshore. These initiatives will provide valuable opportunities for learning, growth, and meaningful engagements which can inspire positive change within our community,” Chow said in his speech.
Doulos Hope is open from 4pm to 9pm (Tuesday to Sunday). The vessel is closed on Monday.
Entrance is RM2 per person. Visitors must bring along their identity card or passport, and children must be accompanied by an adult.
Scan the QR code or visit https://thelittleboxoffice.com/douloshope/ to register.
For details, visit https://www.facebook.com/DoulosHopeMalaysia/
Story by Christopher Tan
Pix by Ahmad Adil Muhamad
Video by Law Suun Ting