LABUAN: The long-awaited arrival of the floating library, Doulos Hope, became a reality when the ship berthed at Labuan Liberty Wharf at 10.45am, Wednesday, marking the start of a nearly month-long stopover in the Federal Territory.
From today (Thursday), members of the public will be able to step aboard the ship to browse its impressive selection of books and enjoy its unique maritime experience.
The floating library will be open daily from 1pm to 9pm, except on Mondays when it will be closed for maintenance and housekeeping.
Labuan is one of the stops in the Doulos Hope’s regional tour, aimed at promoting literacy and cultural exchange through affordable books and onboard community engagement.
The official opening ceremony is scheduled for July 10, and the vessel will remain in Labuan waters until July 27.
Operated by a charitable organisation, Doulos Hope is crewed by volunteers from around the world and offers thousands of book titles covering a wide range of topics, including education, personal development, family and faith.
Families, students and book lovers across Labuan are encouraged to visit the vessel during its stay and take part in the onboard activities.
This is the ship’s first-ever call to Labuan, and its arrival has been welcomed warmly by local authorities and the public alike.
Port operator Megah Port Management Sdn Bhd, in a statement, said a designated pick-up point for visitors has been arranged at the open parking lots of Dataran Labuan, near Blue Wave.
It said this is to facilitate access and orderly transportation of guests to the port area for boarding.
Visitors will be charged RM2 per entry, but children aged 12 and below and senior citizens 65 and above will be given free admission.
