By Ashley Sim
KUCHING, Aug 2: Sarawak Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian has praised the international floating book fair Doulos Hope as more than just a floating book fair, emphasising its role in improving people’s lives through literature and community involvement.
Dr Sim emphasised the impact of the ship’s mission in sharing not only books but also experiences and cultural understanding.
“Personally, I believe that the success and value of this ship is not determined by the number of books sold.
“The ship’s success and value are its soul. It’s the people,” he said while delivering his keynote address at Doulos Hope’s official opening ceremony today at the Kuching Port Authority in Pending here.
Dr Sim, who is also Minister of Public Health, Housing, and Local Government (MPHLG) Sarawak, celebrated the inclusivity exemplified by the diverse crew of Doulos Hope.
He linked this to Sarawak’s own efforts in promoting prosperity, inclusivity, and environmental sustainability.
Drawing from the iconic song ‘We Are the World’, Dr Sim reminded everyone of their collective responsibility to make a difference.
He praised the crew of Doulos Hope for their dedication and the positive impact they bring to communities around the world.
Reflecting on the ship’s previous visits, the minister noted the significant transformation of Sarawak over the past decade.
“Sarawak has changed dramatically since 2015. Our political landscape, economic growth, and infrastructural developments have reshaped our state,” he said.
Additionally, Dr Sim shared Sarawak’s financial achievements, with state revenue increasing from RM5.8 billion in 2018 to RM4.7 billion in just the first three months of this year.
Doulos Hope opens its doors to the public at Kuching Port Authority in Pending from Aug 2 until Aug 28.
Visitors to the international floating book fair can explore a diverse selection of over 2,000 book titles covering a wide range of subjects, such as science, medicine, arts, languages, faith, hobbies, cooking, and sports.
The book fair will be open Tuesday through Sunday, from 2pm to 9pm, with the last entry at 8.30pm. It will be closed on Monday.
The entrance fee is RM2 per person, payable in cash at the entrance. Admission is free for children under 12 and seniors over 65.
For more information, visit Doulos Hope’s website at https://www.gbaships.org or Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/DoulosHopeMalaysia.
The ceremony was attended by various dignitaries and officials, including Doulos Hope director Nathan Schmutz, Doulos Hope captain Tom Dye, Doulos Hope project manager Jabulani Miambo, Kuching Port Authority general manager Robert Lau, Association of Churches Sarawak chairman Rt Rev Datuk Danald Jute, and Unit for Other Religions (Unifor) director Datuk Georgina Apphia Ngau. — DayakDaily
