OFFICIAL OPENING CEREMONY OF DOULOS HOPE IN THE CITY OF PENANG

SPEECH BY YAB TUAN CHOW KON YEOW
THE CHIEF MINISTER OF PENANG

 

OFFICIAL OPENING CEREMONY OF

DOULOS HOPE IN THE CITY OF PENANG

4 JULY 2023, SWETTENHAM PIER CRUISE TERMINAL

Good morning.

It gives me great pleasure to be here with you this morning to witness the opening of the Doulos Hope Experience Deck, the world's second largest floating book fair!

Doulos Hope, with its dedicated crew members 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.

One of the most impressive aspects of Doulos Hope is its vast collection of literature, comprising over 2,000 titles suitable for readers of all ages. This treasure trove spans across various fields, catering to diverse interests ranging from science, sports, and hobbies to cookery, economics, medicine, languages, and faith. This rich collection will undoubtedly foster a culture of reading and personal development among the people of Penang, especially our younger generation.

Beyond the books, Doulos Hope will also host a variety of events both onboard and onshore. From seminars and conferences for leaders, men, women, youth, and children, to educational programs and activities, these initiatives will provide valuable opportunities for learning, growth, and meaningful connections. I am confident that the engagements facilitated by Doulos Hope will inspire positive change within our community.

Ladies and gentlemen,

While Doulos Hope may be a new vessel, its reputation precedes her well, thanks to her sister ships. We are inspired by the numerous initiatives and projects undertaken by them, particularly in alleviating poverty. From post-civil war reconciliation in Papua New Guinea to the construction of orphanages in Myanmar and Liberia, and the rebuilding of communities devastated by natural disasters in Sri Lanka, Sudan, and East Timor, Doulos Hope has shown us what it truly means to make the world a better place. Let their exemplary efforts be a shining example for other organizations, regardless of their values or beliefs.

We also acknowledge and embrace the legacy of Penang's relationship with this vessel. From its former identity as Taipan, the "boss of all bosses," to its current name, Doulos Hope, "the servant of hope," we recognize the deep significance of this transformation. Doulos Hope aims not only to enrich individuals but also to positively impact global communities and future generations.

Ladies and gentlemen,

In tandem with our vision of ‘A Family-Focused Green and Smart State that Inspires the 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”.

I envision that during Doulos Hope’s 26 day-stay at Swettenham Pier, there will be many meaningful interactions with our local communities. I have no doubt that the dedicated crew of Doulos Hope will significantly contribute to the city of Penang by providing quality literature at affordable prices, reaching out to hundreds of children and youth through uplifting and educational programs, extending practical love and aid to those in need, and fostering enduring friendships with the warm and friendly people of Malaysia.

Let us embrace this momentous occasion and embark on a journey of knowledge, compassion, and hope together.

Thank you.