When Michael Hoong learnt that Doulos Hope was scheduled to dock in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, he jumped at the opportunity to sign up as port volunteer. He was in for an amazing first-hand experience
Many Malaysians barely know about OM’s fourth vessel, Logos Hope, as she had rarely visited Malaysia compared to her sister ship Doulos in earlier years before Doulos was decommissioned. In fact, the last Logos Hope visited Kota Kinabalu was during her first trip to Malaysia in 2011. Therefore when Michael Hoong heard that OM’s fifth and newest vessel, Doulos Hope was scheduled to dock at his city of Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, he jumped at the opportunity to sign up as a port volunteer. Michael, a medical doctor, wanted a first-hand experience of the Ship Ministry, albeit part-time.
“During my time, I was rostered to various tasks related to welcoming and ushering visitors to the bookfair on board.
“I was amazed at how well-organized the Ship Ministry was. The crew members were cheerful and enthusiastic, enjoying what they were doing. I was particularly impressed to see how the Ship Ministry brought together people from various countries and ethnicities to live and serve together as a big family on board.
“I learned that it is God’s plan to create people differently, each with their own strengths and limitations. By working together in respect and humility, we complement each other and fill up the gaps. The Ship Ministry is a delightful testimony of serving in unity in the spirit of the Christian faith.
Michael learnt from other crew members how they initiated conversations to share about their faith and their journey of joining the ship. It encouraged him to be bold and respectful in sharing with strangers about how the Christian faith shaped his life journey and decisions.
“I pray that the ship ministry will continue to be a blessing to the crew members as well as the communities that the ship engages with at each port of call.”