WORLD LARGEST'S FLOATING BOOK FAIR MAKES A STOP IN PENANG

GEORGE TOWN (Malaysia), Aug 25 (Bernama) -- The world's largest floating
book fair, Logos Hope, opened at the Penang Swettenham Pier International Cruise
Terminal from Thursday until Sept 25.

It is a treasure trove, with over 5,000 book titles in various languages and
genres, ranging from kids’ books to hobbies, dictionaries and atlases available
for sale on board the 12.5 tonnes vessel.

The ship's captain, James Tom Dyer, said Logos Hope is operated by GBA
Ships, an international charitable organisation registered in Germany.

Dyer who has been involved with GBA Ships since 1980, said the ship has 400
volunteers and staff from 45 nations.

"It is special, living in a community like this. There is great satisfaction
to be had from the work we do," he said.


Mellisa Krishnan, 34, Air Itam Penang, said she is proud to be among the
crew members.

"We travel around the world to promote peace, build a better future for
children, spread knowledge, share hope and disseminate HIV and AIDS awareness,"
she said.

Mellisa joined the ship's crew members two years ago and currently works as
an electrician.

She said despite the ship crew and staff coming from different nations and
cultures, they seek to understand one another and work together to serve the
people in ports the ship is visiting.

"It is a unique example of unity in cultural diversity," she said.

The fair is open 10am to 10pm from Tuesday to Saturday, 1pm to 10pm on
Sunday. Entry ticket is RM1 per person. Entrance is free for children under 12
but they must be accompanied by an adult.