Penang :: Doulos Hope seeks to bring positive impact during her visit to Penang
Doulos Hope’s latest port of call was to Penang, Malaysia, where the ribbon was cut and the vessel’s floating bookfair declared open to the public on 31 July.
Guest of honour and Chief Minister of Penang, Mr Chow Kon Yeow spoke at the official opening ceremony, saying, “It gives me great pleasure to be here with you today to witness the opening of [Doulos Hope in Penang], the world’s second-largest floating bookfair!
“Doulos Hope, with its dedicated crewmembers and their diverse backgrounds, is certainly a microcosm of the global population. Just as Penang is a melting pot of cultures, languages and traditions, we welcome Doulos Hope’s arrival on our shores.”
During the time in port, the vessel’s multicultural crew held 20 events on board, with many designed in particular for the upcoming generation. One such event was held for young professionals, where the attendees were encouraged to use their giftings and passions to their greatest potential. Crewmembers also shared from their own experience of using their professions to make a positive impact in their home communities and around the world.
Mr Chow also recognized the vessel’s history in Penang and at the Swettenham Pier Cruise Terminal, where she was berthed for the duration of her most recent visit. In 2022, it was here that the vessel (then a casino cruise ship under the name ‘The Taipan’), was officially acquired by GBA Ships.
“We also acknowledge and embrace the legacy of Penang’s relationship with this vessel,” said Mr Chow. “From her former identity as The Taipan, [meaning] the ‘boss of all bosses,’ to her current name, Doulos Hope, ‘servant of hope,’ we recognise the deep significance of this transformation. Doulos Hope aims not only to enrich individuals but also to positively impact global communities and future generations.
“In tandem with our vision of ‘a family-focused, green and smart state that inspires a nation,’ it is my hope that such humility and love showcased by Doulos Hope will serve to inspire and encourage the people of Penang to make a difference no matter how small or impossible it may seem. As in the words of the late Nelson Mandela: “It always seems impossible until it is done.
Let us embrace this momentous occasion and embark on a journey of knowledge, compassion, and hope together.”