Postage Stamp Centenary 1867-1967

A CENTURY OF MALAYSIAN POSTAGE STAMPS
The story of the stamps of Malaysia lies in the history of the stamps of the States which make up the Federation. It begins in 1867 when the Straits Settlements were constituted as a Crown Colony governed directly by Britain.

Prior to 1867 postal matters in the Straits Settlements came under the control of the Indian Post Office. Indian postage stamps were used without any modifications but in 1867 stamps intended for use solely in the Straits Settlements were introduced. These stamps were overprinted with a Crown and were in Straits cents and dollars. Curiously the title "Straits Settlement" was not shown on the stamps.

In December 1867 a new definitive issue featuring the famous Wyon portrait of Queen Victoria and typographed by De La Rue replaced this issue. Then between March 1892 and July 1899 stamps in the standard Colonial keyplate colours were issued. In 1902 the Colonial keyplate designs showing the new monarch King Edward VII appeared.

The King George V definitive series release between 1812 and 1922 was a mixture of old and new designs with some values printed on coloured paper. In 1936 a new standard design for the Straits Settlements made its debut and was later adopted by the other stamp issuing territories of the Malayan Postal Union. It featured an oval portrait of King George V flanked by palm trees. The same design was used for the stamps of the Straits Settlements participated in the Colonial Omnibus issued for the Silver Jubilee of King George V (1935) and the Coronation of King George VI (1937).

POSTAL SERVICES IN THE FORMER UNFEDERATED MALAY STATES
In 1876 postal service was established in Johore. Straits Settlements stamps overprinted with the name of the State were in use until 1891 when a series portraying His Highness Sultan Aboubakar was issued. When he was succeeded by his son, His Highness Sultan Sir Ibrahim in 1895, an issue overprinted "Kemahkotaan" commemorating the Coronation was released. Various issues portraying the Sultan and, in 1935 the Sultana also appeared between this date and his Diamond Jubilee in 1955.

Postal services in the other Unfederated States were controlled by Siam from 1883 until 1909 and Siamese stamps post-marked in Kedah, Kelantan and Perlis are eagerly sought after. No Post Office existed in Trengganu until December 1910 when the Straits Settlements stamps were used pending the arrival of a distinctive series which was released later that month. During a temporary shortage in 1921, stamps of the Straits Settlements were used in Trengganu and in that year a new series portraying His Highness Sultan Suleiman was released.

Kelantan followed Trengganu with distinctive stamps in 1911 featuring the emblem of the State. The series was reissued between 1921 and 1928 when a new one dollar stamp portraying His Highness Sultan Ismail Ibni Almerhum Sultan Mohammed was released. This design was used for all values of a new definitive issue made between 1937 and 1940.

Kedah's first definitive series appeared in 1912 and consisted of three designs for 14 values. This issue, with various colour changes, remained in use until 1937 when a new series portraying His Highness Sultan Abdul Hamid Halimshah was made.

POSTAL SERVICES IN THE FORMER FEDERATED MALAY STATES
In the Federated Malay States the stamps of the Straits Settlements were used until the States began issuing their own series. Perak was the first of the States to issue stamps when the Straits Settlements two cents value was hand-stamped with a "P" and a crescent and star in 1878. Overprinted issues remained in use in Perak until the first distinctive series was introduced in 1892.

Selangor too used Straits Settlements stamps until its own overprinted local issues appeared in 1881.

Pahang's first issue consisted of Straits Settlements stamps overprinted "Pahang" in 1889. Negri Sembilan, the Union of the 9 States of Sungei Ujong, Jelebu, Johol, Rembau, Ulu  Muar, Jempul, Terachi, Gunong Pasir and Inas, issued stamps in August 1891 which were in fact overprinted Straits Settlements stamps. Sungei Ujong, however, had stamps of its own from 1878 onwards.

In 1891 a standard design showing a leaping tiger was introduced in the Federated States. 2 cents denominations released simultaneously in Pahang, Perak, Negri Sembilan, Selangor and Sungei Ujong were followed by 5 cents (1893) and 1 cent (1895) denominations. In 1895 a 3 cents denomination in a new uniform design showing the head of a tiger was released. Stamps in denominations of 4 cents and 5 cents, of the tiger's head design, were released in the Federated States between 1895 and 1899.

The Federated Malay States, constituted in July 1896 each used its own stamps until 1898 when the stamps of any State became valid for use in the other States. In 1900 a general issue inscribed "FEDERATED MALAY STATES" was introduced. At first the definitive sets of Negri Sembilan and Perak were used, suitably overprinted, but towards the end of that year a new "leaping tiger" design was brought into use for the lower denominations. The dollar values used the elephants design as before. The stamps remained in use for 35 years.

In 1935 the Malayan Postal Union was formed and separate issues for the Federated Malay States were re-introduced, each State issuing a series inscribed "MALAYA" with the State's name. In 1922 a Malaya - Borneo Exhibition was held in Singapore and several values in the definitive sets of the Straits Settlements, Kedah, Kelantan, Brunei and North Borneo were overprinted "MALAYA - BORNEO EXHIBITION".

POSTAL SERVICES IN SABAH AND SARAWAK
Present day Malaysia includes two States in the island of Borneo, Sabah and Sarawak. Sabah was previously known as North Borneo and incorporated the territory of Labuan which was itself a Crown Colony from 1848 till 1890 and had its own stamps between 1879 and the end of the century.

Both Sarawak and Sabah (North Borneo) have had a long and interesting postal history. Sarawak commenced issuing stamps in March 1869 and Sabah in 1883. With the establishment of the British North Borneo Company in 1882, North Borneo was opened to trade and became a British Protectorate in 1888. Between 1883 and 1887 its stamps were inscribed with the words "North Borneo"; in the latter year the word "British" was added to the title. From 1894 onward the stamps were inscribed with the words "The States of North Borneo" and "British Protectorate" were either overprinted or added to the design in most issues after 1901.

STAMPS DURING THE SECOND WORLD WAR AND THE IMMEDIATE POST-WAR YEARS
The Malay Peninsula was invaded by Japanese Forces in 1941 and the stamps of Malaya were overprinted by the Japanese who later issued their own stamps. When Japan surrendered in 1945 Malaya was placed under British Military Administration and the pre-war stamps were overprinted with "B.M.A. MALAYA". In 1947 the stamps of Sarawak and North Borneo were reissued overprinted with the Royal Cipher following their change in status to Crown Colonies.

On 1st February 1948 the Federation of Malaya was formed and the stamps of the British Military Administration were gradually superseded by stamps in uniform design for portraying the Rulers of each State (or the Coat of Arms, in the case of Negri Sembilan) in Johore, Kedah, Kelantan, Malacca, Negri Sembilan, Pahang, Penang, Perak, Selangor, Singapore and Trengganu. The State of Perlis, which had hitherto used the stamps of Kedah, began issuing its own stamps at this time. The twelve territories issued stamps in the Colonial Omnibus designs for the Silver Wedding (1948), the 75th anniversary of the Universal Postal Union (1949) and the Coronation of Queen Elizabeth II (1953).

POSTAGE STAMPS AFTER MERDEKA
The Federation of Malaya achieved independence on the 31st August, 1957. Philatelically these changes were heralded by the release of four stamps on 5th May, 1957, inscribed "Federation of Malaya", which were intended for use throughout the country. Between June and August, each of the component States released their own definitive sets differing only in the inscription and the portrait of the ruler inset.

Changes of portrait became necessary on the stamps of Kedah (1959), Kelantan (1961-2) and Selangor (1961-2) because of the deaths of the rulers of these States. Several stamps were issued by the States to mark local events such as the Diamond Jubilee of the Sultan of Johore (1955) and the Coronations of the Rulers of Johore (1960), Kedah (1959), Kelantan (1961), Negri Sembilan (1961), Selangor (1961) and Perak (1963).

The Federation of Malaya issued a number of colourful commemorative stamps such as the Independence Day Commemorative (1957 and 1958) and the Parliamentary Inauguration set (1959). In the succeeding years stamps were issued for the Natural Rubber Research Conference. The Colombo Plan Conference, National Language Month, Free Primary Education and the Cameron Highlands Hydro-Electric Scheme. In addition the Federation participated in the world "Omnibus" issues for World Refugee Year (1960), Human Rights (1958), Malaria Eradication (1962) and Freedom from Hunger (1963).

On 16th September, 1963, Malaysia, comprising the States of the Federation of Malaya and the States of Sabah (North Borneo), Sarawak and Singapore, was established and a set of three stamps featuring the sun rising over a map of the area was issued. The stamps of North Borneo were overprinted with the word "Sabah" pending the arrival of the new definitive series.

Malaysia issued two stamps in 1963 to commemorate the Fourth World Orchid Conference in Singapore and stamps for other important events such as the Ninth Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference, Mrs Eleanor Roosevelt Memorial and International Telecommunication Union Centenary followed during the next two years.

The present distinctive National definitive issue featuring birds of Malaysia was released on 9th September, 1965, and on 15th November of the same year the State definitive issues were released.

Since the release of these National and State series, commemorative stamps have been issued from time to time notably for the opening of the National Mosque and the International Airport (August 65), the third South Eastern Asia Peninsula Games (December 65), National Monument (February 66), Installation of the King (April 66), 150th Anniversary of Penang Free School (October 66), The First Malaysia Plan (December 66), Seacom (March 67), 10th Anniversary of Merdeka (August 67) and the Centenary of Council Negri, Sarawak (September 67).

Technical Details
Commemorative postage stamps of the 25 cents, 30 cents and 50 cents denominations will be issued on 2nd December, 1967 to mark the Centenary of the First Postage Stamps of Malaysia.

Sizes: Trapeziform with the following dimensions perforation to perforation in sheets of 50:
(a) Vertical - 30 mm, (b) Horizontal (at top) - 35 mm, (c) Horizontal (at bottom) - 42 mm

Printing Process: Photogravure

Design: The three stamps depict the following:
25 cents - depicts the 1867 Straits Settlements 8c stamp and the current 25c Malaysia stamp, both in actural colours.

30 cents - depicts the 1867 Straits Settlements 24c stamp and the current 30c Malaysia stamp, both in actural colours.

50 cents - depicts the 1867 Straits Settlements 32c stamp and the current 50c Malaysia stamp, both in actual colours.

Colour: All the three stamps are in multi-colours.

Paper: Unwatermarked paper

Printed by: The Government Printing Bureau of Japan

Artist: Enche Ng Peng Nam

Period of Sale: Three months from the date of issue or until stocks are exhausted whichever is earlier

 First Day Cover:

International Airport

THE INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
The opening of the Kuala Lumpur International Airport in 1965 by His Majesty the Yang Di-Pertuan Agong completes a further stage in the 2nd 5-Year Development Plan being undertaken by the Government of Malaysia.

The new Airport is connected to Kuala Lumpur 14 miles away by a fast motorway which takes 20 to 30 minutes.

The opening of the new Airport means that all Air Lines will be able to include Kuala Lumpur in their schedules and it is expected that this modern Airport will become a focal point for all traffic between the East and West.

The civil engineering works were designed by the Headquarters staff of the Public Works Department who have accomplished a project of which they can be justly proud. It has been designed to incorporate modern airport development and will cater for all existing types of aircraft which may appear in the foreseeable future.

The site is ideal as there are no large obstructions in the vicinity and the orientation of the runway fits in perfectly with the main prevailing winds from the South-West and North-East. The site preparation involved the removal of a village to a new location, the clearing of 500 acres of rubber trees and the excavation of some 6.5 million cubic yards of soil.

The runway and the parallel taxiway have been constructed by Messrs. Gammon-Hawaiian Dredging-Pomeroy. The pavement comprises a layer of lime stabilized soil on the formation and bitumen bound bases and wearing surface, this type of construction being the first of its kind in this part of the world. The total area of paving is 550,000 sq. yds. A major problem in this country, with its high rainfall, is drainage and 8.5 miles of piped drains and 14.5 miles of open drains had to be provided. All areas outside those paved are turfed and amounts to 2,000,000 sq. yds. The airport complex covers 54 acres and is surrounded by a fence.

Both approaches are provided with centerline and bar lighting together with circling guideline lighting. The runway is equipped with edge and threshold bar lighting and visual slope indicators. The taxiways are equipped with centerline lighting and in certain areas edge lighting. The airport will be equipped with VOR/DME radio equipment together with an instrument landing system. It is also proposed to provide shortly, radar surveillance equipment. The navigational aids provided will enable pilots to descend through cloud to a height at which they can utilize the visual landing aids.

The terminal building and other ancillary buildings located towards the southern end of the runway were designed and the construction supervised by a Malaysian firm of Architects - Messrs. Booty Edwards & Partners. The terminal building together with the control tower form a covered area of approximately 350,000 sq. ft. The roof comprises a series of reinforced concrete hyperbolic paraboloid panels at 48 ft. square, and supported by 36 foot R.C. columns at 48 foot centres. External noise has been minimized by providing a band of air-conditioned rooms with double glazing on the side of the building adjacent to the parking apron. Rubberized flooring has been used extensively.

The ground floor of the terminal building contains offices for the Departments of Civil Aviation and Meteorology, and Airlines together with the main kitchen, electrical and air-conditioning plant. The first floor is a passenger concourse and vehicular traffic is accommodated on a covered roadway which is an integral part of the building. All check-in and ticket counters, arrival and departure halls, reception, interview and V.I.P. rooms, shops and other public facilities are located on this floor. The second floor which is of Mezzanine has two gentry rising spiral ramps sweeping up from the concourse level which serve as the principal means of access. On this floor there is an air-conditioned public observation terrace and an open air dining terrace and dance floor. The 134 ft. high control tower is a separate structure connected to the terminal building by a covered way.

This project is the largest in South East Asia and was completed in a period of 30 months at a total cost of M$52 million.

Technical Details
Special postage stamps of the 15 cents and 30 cents denominations will be issued on the 30th August, 1965 to mark the opening of the International Airport in Kuala Lumpur.

Size: Rectangular with the following dimensions perforation to perforation, in sheets of 100 - Horizontal - 36 mm, Vertical - 25 mm.

Printing Process: Photogravure

Design: The design features the International Airport Terminal Building

Colours:
15 cents - Building - grey, Sky - blue

30 cents - Building - grey, Sky - red

Paper: PTM watermarked white paper

Printed By: Messrs. Harrison and Sons Ltd., London

The stamps will be placed on sale in all the territories of Malaysia for a period of three months from the date of issue or until stocks are exhausted whichever is earlier.

First Day Cover

Definitive Postage Stamps 1965 National Series (birds)

Malaysia which came into being on the 16th September 1963, comprises of the eleven States forming the previous Federation of Malaya, (viz. Johore, Kedah, Kelantan, Malacca Negri Sembilan, Pahang, Perak, Perlis, Selangor and Trengganu), Sabah, Sarawak and Singapore. Singapore ceased to be a state of Malaysia from 9th August, 1965.

Malaysia covers an area of about 130,000 square miles. It occupies two distinct regions, the Malay Peninsula which extends south of Thailand from the narrow Kra isthmus to the Straits of Johore, and the north-western coastal area of the island of Borneo. The population of Malaysia numbers just over eight million people according to census and population estimate figures as at the end of 1961. The main sources of income are rubber, tin, timber and iron ore. There are, however, many other industries and crafts of importance to the country's economy. The standard of living in Malaysia and the per capita average income are among the highest in Asia.

The charm and tropical beauty of Malaysia and the variety which pervades her life provide most fascinating subjects for depicting on postage stamps. The first issue of Malaysia definitive postage stamps depicts some of the colourful birds and orchid species of Malaysia. These stamps are in two series.

The National series, which depicts birds, consists of eight denominations, viz. 25c., 30c., 50c., 75c., $1, $2, $5 and $10. These stamps, which do not bear State individuality, are common to all the thirteen States.

The State series, which depicts orchids, consists of seven denominations, viz., 1c., 2c., 5c., 6c., 10c., 15c., and 20c. These stamps bear a portrait of His Highness the Ruler of the State and/or the State Crest and the name of the State in Jawi and Roman characters. The vignette of each denomination is common to every State.

The stamps are printed by Messrs. Harrison and Sons Ltd. in multi-colour by the photogravure process on PTM watermarked paper. They measure 25 mm x 35 mm. The National and State series are in vertical and horizontal format respectively. The artist is Mr. A. Fraser-Brunner.

The birds depicted in the stamps of the National series are described in this brochure. The orchids depicted in the stamps of the State series are described in a separate brochure.


BURONG SIUL
CRESTED GREEN WOOD-PARTRIDGE
Rollulus roulroul

Small parties of these birds are not uncommon in dry lowland jungle and on well drained slopes in the hills throughout Malaysia. They feed on the ground, rarely flying for more than short distances. The call is a low melodious whistle, which rings through the trees, and gives rise to the common Malay name.

Nest is a thick bed of dry leaves, eggs white, averaging 1.45 by 1.20 ins.



MURAI GAJAH
THE FAIRY BLUEBIRD
Irena puella malayensis

A common and showy bird of the tree-tops in lowland and hills forest throughout Malaysia, where the brilliant blue of the male in flight, is a memorable sight. The normal call is a melodious double whistle - "wit-wiu". Not gregarious, but usually associated in pairs, whose movement is largely influenced by the seasonal fruiting of the trees on which they feed.

Nests are of untidy cup made of twigs, placed high up in trees.

BURONG KUNYIT BESAR
THE BLACK-NAPED ORIOLE
Oriolus chinensis maculatus

Essentially a bird of the towns and gardens of Western Malaysia, never seen in our native forests, and absent from the Borneo States.

Usually seen in the canopies of trees, where they feed on fruit, rarely descending to the ground. Flight is strong and direct, usually at tree-top level. The familiar call, frequently uttered, is a beautiful whistle - "ta-kee-you" (sometimes omitting the first syllable). The nest is commonly slung in a fork, far out on a slender branch sixty or seventy feet up in a tall tree, in park-land or orchard. It is composed of bark, twiglets, grass and roots. The colour of the egg is white, tinged with violet, sparsely spotted and blotched with purple-brown - measuring 1.27 by 0.8 ins.

ENGGANG
THE RHINOCEROS HORNBILL
Buceros rhinoceros
This magnificent bird is restricted to the tall forest of our lowlands and foothills , and because of its specialized habits is unfortunately severely threatened by expanding rural development. Where it survives it can be seen feeding on the fruits of tall trees, its normal diet. The call rather goose-like, honk. is often uttered antiphonally by a pair of birds in flight. Normally associated in pairs or small family groups, occasionally forming small flocks.

As among all hornbills, the female remains in the nest hole, the entrance to which is partially closed by a plaster of mud, during the process of incubation and for some considerable time after the eggs have hatched, being fed by the male.

Birds abound in folklore and poetry:
"Anak enggang di-kayu tinggi,
Patah ranting terbang-lah dia,
Anak dagang lama di-sini,
Sampai musim terbang-lah dia."

"On top of high tree the Enggang sits,
Away it flies when the branch breaks,
However long a foreigner may stay,
To his home land he will fly away."

MERBOK
THE BARRED GROUND-DOVE
Geopelia striata

A common bird of open country and villages, and a favourite pet of Malaysians. Regular contests are held when the singing powers of caged birds are matched, and large side-bets may be placed. In the wild, these doves feed mostly on the ground.

Nests are small and flimsy platforms of stick built in trees. Eggs white, measuring 0.9 by 0.65 ins.

KUANG
ARGUS PHEASANT
Argusianus argus
An inhabitant of tall forest, preferring the well drained slopes of the foothills, throughout Malaysia. Shy and seldom seen, but usually betrayed by its powerful call, either a double - "wak-wau", or a long series of plaintive single notes, each rising imperceptibly in tone.

The males maintain so-called "dancing-ground", small clearings which are kept scrupulously clean and free from debris, to which they repair to call and display. This habit renders the Argus Pheasant vulnerable to poachers, and already over much of Malaysia, this unique and beautiful bird has disappeared from its ancient haunts.

MURAI EKOR GADING
PARADISE FLYCATCHER
Terpsiphone paradisi affinis
This beautiful bird is found in the forest of lowlands and foothills throughout the country. In flight the long tail-streamers of the male flutter like a length of still ribbon.

Nests usually are placed about six feet from the ground in a fork of a slender sapling. They are deep cups of moss, lined with dead grass or fibre. The eggs are glossy, the ground colour is faintly pink, sparsely spotted with reddish-brown and blotched with salmon-pink, measuring about 0.8 by 0.6 ins.

BURONG PACHAT
THE BANDED PITTA
Pitta guajana
Pittas are shy birds of the forest floor and undergrowth, disappearing with a flash of brilliant colour at the least sign of danger.

The Banded Pitta is not uncommon locally in the drier lowland jungle of the north. It appears to prefer the vicinity of limestone hills (probably because of the profusions of small snails on which it feeds).

First Day Cover

Date of Issue: 1965-09-09

National Monument

THE NATIONAL MONUMENT
Malaysia's new $1 million National Monument sited on top of a hill along Jalan Clifford commands a panoramic view of the Lake Gardens in Kuala Lumpur.

The Monument has been described by the Prime Minister, Tunku Abdul Rahman Putra Al-Haj as "a symbol of the eternal gratitude of the people of Malaya for the devotion and patriotism of all those brave men and women who suffered and dies in the twelve long years of the Emergency". Costing the country about $1,400 million and thousands of lives the Emergency was an epic of the people's heroic struggle for peace and freedom against militant communism.

It was on 31st July 1961, the first anniversary of the ending of the Emergency, that the National Monument Fund was launched by the Prime Minister with a $200,000 donation from the Central Government. To date, with the wholehearted support of the people the target of $1 million has almost been reached.

The Monument, a 40-foot high sculpture in bronze stands on a base almost 11 feet high and 45 feet square is made of emerald pearl granite from Norway.

The Federation coat-of-arms is cut from the same granite. On either side of this is a plaque in dedication to our fallen heroes - in Jawi and in English.

The group of statuary depicts men of the armed forces in vigorous action with the Malaysian Flag fluttering overhead. Total weight of the group is 14.5 tons.

Each of the figures stands more than 20 feet tall and is 3.5 times life-size.

The top most figure of a man symbolizes leadership as he holds the flag which itself is the symbol of unity and strength as well as of the ideals of the country.

On each side of this figure are two powerful men of the Security Forces ready to fight for these ideals and they have won a victory against great odds.

This Monument typifies the unsurpassed gallantry of all men of the Security Forces of Malaya.

In the centre front a man is aiding and giving comfort to a wounded soldier whose facial expression portrays his suffering.

This symbolizes the sacrifices made throughout the ranks of the fighting men for the maintenance of peace and freedom.

The well-known American sculptor-cum-painter, Mr. Felix W. de Weldon designed the Monument. Italian master craftsmen, with years of experience in casting bronze, were employed to turn out the seven statues.

Technical Details
Special postage stamps of the 10 cents and 20 cents denominations will be issued to mark the unveiling of the National Monument.

Details of the stamps are as follows:

Date of issue: 1966-02-08

Size: Triangular with the following dimensions perforation to perforation: (i) Base 38 mm (ii) Sides 38 mm.

Printing Process: Photogravure

Design: The design features a group of statuary depicting men of the armed forces in vigorous action with the Malaysian Flag fluttering overhead.

Colour: 10 cents - The Malaysian Flag in full colours and the statuary in bronze against a yellow-orange background.

20 cents - The Malaysian Flag in full colours and the statuary in bronze against a light blue background.

Paper: PTM watermarked white paper

Printed by: Harrison & Sons, Ltd., London.

The stamps will be placed on sale in all the territories of Malaysia for a period of three months from the date of issue or until stocks are exhausted whichever is earlier.

First Day Cover
 

Commemorative Postage Stamp 3rd SEAP Games

3rd SEAP GAMES

At the beginning of 1958 an idea was mooted in many quarters to organize games similar to the Asian and Olympic Games in South East Asia because there was affinity in many aspects such as the way of life and physical make-up of people as well as the climate.

The general consensus was that these games, if held at the right time, would be a good exercise for the athletes taking part in the two older games. They would also help to strengthen the bonds of friendship and cooperation among the countries.

The Olympic Committee of Thailand was largely instrumental in translating the proposal into action. Following a series of deliberations the Committee chose the name of "South East Asia Peninsular Games" and decided at the same time that the participating countries would include Burma, Cambodia, Laos, Malaya, Thailand and Vietnam, since these countries lay in the Peninsula proper.

The proposal was submitted to and approved by the Government of Thailand. It was subsequently discussed at an informal meeting of representatives of Burma, Laos, Malaya and Thailand, who had assembled in Tokyo for the third Asian Games. Cambodia and Vietnam joined in the discussion later. As the Games would be international in character, the proposal was submitted to the various Olympic Committees for ratification.

The inaugural Games were held at Bangkok in 1959. Burma, Laos, Malaya, Singapore and Vietnam took part, in addition to Thailand.

A SEAP Games Federation was formed to control the Games which it was decided to hold every two years, in between the Asian and Olympic Games. It was also decided that each country would have the honour of holding the Games in rotation in alphabetical order.

The second SEAP Games were staged in Rangoon in 1961. Competing with the host country were Cambodia, Laos, Malaya, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam.

Cambodia was unable to celebrate the third SEAP Games. Laos, next in line, indicated her inability to accept responsibility and Malaya has therefore taken over these Games which will be held in Kuala Lumpur from the 14th to 21st December, 1963.

Fourteen Games are included in the programme, and all member countries have indicated their intention of taking part. The public can look forward to a festival of sports. 

Technical Details

Special postage stamps of the 25 cents, 30 cents and 50 cents denominations will be issued on the 14th December, 1965 to commemorate the 3rd South East Asia Peninsular Games to be held in Kuala Lumpur.

Size: Rectangular with the following dimension perforation to perforation in sheets of 100 :

Horizontal - 25 mm

Vertical - 35 mm

Printing Process: Offset Process

Design: The 25 cents denomination depicts sepak raga and soccer.

The 30 cents denomination depicts athletics.

The 50 cents denomination depicts swimming.

Each denomination also bears the S.E.A.P. Games emblem of six rings.

Colours: 25 cents - green background with drawing of human figure in black.

30 cents - violet background with drawing of human figures in black.

50 cents - blue background with drawing of human figure in black.

Paper: Unwatermarked paper

Printed by: The Government Printing Bureau of Japan

Designer: Enche. A. F. Anthony

The stamps will be placed on sale in all the territories of Malaya for a period of three months from the date of issue or until stocks are exhausted whichever is earlier. 

 First Day Cover

50th Anniversary of the International Labour Organization (ILO)

ILO 1919-1969

FIFTY YEARS IN THE SERVICE OF SOCIAL PROGRESS

Just over fifty years ago, at the end of 1918, the First World War drew to a close. Not only had peace to be made, it must be a durable peace. The peace Treaty signed in Versailles on 28th June, 1919 set up the League of Nations whose essential task was to avert future conflicts. But it had already been understood that universal and lasting peace "can be established only if it is based upon social justice". The International Labour Organization was therefore created alongside the League of Nations with the responsibility of setting up international collaboration for the study of labour problems and for the adoption of international standards of workers' protection.

Of this structure, little besides the International Labour Organizations was to remain after the Second World War. Relying on the confidence of workers, of employers and of governments which constitute it, and drawing on its capital of accumulated achievements, the ILO was ready to face the future. In Philadelphia in 1944, the Organization marked its 25 years of activity by enlarging the scope of social international cooperation and bringing the ILO into the struggle against poverty and insecurity. As the first specialized agency to enter into relations with the United Nations, it threw its weight wholeheartedly - while continuing its work for the protection of workers - into a new and essential undertaking: international technical cooperation.

There were 45 Member States in 1919 and 121 in 1969. These figures are eloquent, for they demonstrate that the ILO's work affects the whole world and more particularly those countries which have recently become independent and where problems of development are most acute. For the past 20 years, ILO experts have supported the efforts of governments in organization of employment services and labour administration, vocational training for unskilled workers and managers alike, productivity in large and small undertakings, development of cooperatives, workers' education, social security, occupational safety and health, better conditions of work and higher living standards.

During its anniversary year,  the ILO launched the initial stages of a World Employment Programme as an attack on the massive problems of unemployment and under-employment in the developing world. Under this programme the Organization will assist national governments in developing employment and training opportunities for the swelling populations of Asia, Latin America, Africa and the Middle East. Malaysia has been collaborating actively with the Asian Regional Team of the ILO in moving ahead with the implementation of the Asia Manpower Plan as part of this world-wide effort.

For this half century of dedication to the cause of mankind and universal and lasting peace based on social justice, the ILO was awarded the coveted 1969 Nobel Peace Prize which consists of 373,000 Swedish crowns, the Alfred Nobel Gold Medal and Diploma. This award is a tribute to the common man throughout the world, to his stake in peace and his contribution to peace. It will no doubt give the ILO immense encouragement to build further on the solid foundations laid by 50 years of unremitting efforts to which Governments, employers and workers throughout the world have contributed in full measure.

Member countries all over the world participated in the celebration of the ILO 50th Anniversary in a wide variety of ways. Malaysia, among other things, is issuing special postage stamps, to commemorate the occasion.

THE ILO - WHAT IT MEANS TO MALAYSIA

Malaysia is one of the 121 Member governments of the International Labour Organization, having joined the Organization in 1957, the year of independence. Since then, Government, Worker and Employer representatives from Malaysia have played an active part in the councils of the ILO. In 1966-1969 Malaysia was represented on the Governing Body of the ILO by a government member and a worker deputy member. It is presently represented by a full tripartite delegation in the Asian Advisory Committee of the ILO, including government, worker and employer members.

The ties between Malaysia and the International Labour Organization in the field of technical cooperation have been close and extend from the first year of independence to the present date. During that time ILO advisers have worked closely with government officials and worker and employer organizations to develop a wide range of social policy, and labour and management institutions, including:

• an apprenticeship programme
• a national employment service
• an employment market information programme
• vocational rehabilitation
• an accelerated training programme
• an instructor training programme
• improved labour statistics
• a productivity institute
• a workers' education programme
• establishment of Penang Port Labour Board
• industrial hygiene

Approximately thirty ILO experts in various fields of activity ranging from productivity to cooperatives have carried out technical assistance projects in Malaysia since 1957. Twelve experts in instructor and industrial training are presently being assigned by the ILO to implement a UNDP Special Fund project from 1969 to 1974.

Fifteen ILO fellowships for 3 to 6 months study abroad have been awarded to Malaysians in various labour and social fields since 1962 and Malaysians have been participating in ILO Regional Seminars such as the Asian Round Table on Labour Administration and Developing Planning in 1969 and the Asian Regional Meeting on Vocational Training Planning and Organization in 1968. Malaysian employer representatives are being closely associated with preparations for the first regional seminar to be held in 1970 for employers in the Asian Region in order to discuss their role with regard to labour and manpower problems in economic and social development.

The major task facing the ILO in the Asian Region in the years that lie ahead will be the implementation of the Asian Regional Manpower Plan which will provide the framework for a concerted attack by governments and international organizations on unemployment and under-employment in the countries of the region. Malaysia has been collaborating closely with the ILO in the preliminary studies undertaken under the Plan and will be associated with the work of the ILO Regional Manpower Team which commenced operations in 1969. 

Technical Details

Commemorative postage stamps of 30 cents and 75 cents denominations will be issued to mark the 50th Anniversary of the International Labour Organization.

Size: Rectangular with the following dimensions perforation to perforation in sheets of 100:

Horizontal - 25 mm.

Vertical - 35 mm

Printing Process: Lithograph

Design: The design features of the ILO Emblem

Colours: 30 cents - The Emblem in peacock blue against a grey background with the letterings in white

75 cents - The Emblem in peacock blue against a pink background with the letterings in white

Paper: Unwatermarked white paper

Printed by: Messrs. Harrison & Sons Ltd., England

Period of Sale: Until stocks are exhausted.

First Day Cover

The First Malaysia Plan 1966-1970

In the words of the Hon'ble Prime Minister "the key to progress and prosperity lies not in satisfaction with what we have already achieved but in a firm determination to make even greater efforts in the future." The First Malaysia Plan therefore represents a major step forward in meeting the main socio-economic development problems facing Malaysia. These are the heavy dependence of the economy on two export products, rubber and tin, a high rate of population growth of about 3% per annum, an uneven distribution income with wide disparities between urban and rural areas and a relatively low level of human resource development.

The strategy of development adopted for the Plan will therefore emphasize the diversification of production both for import substitution and export possibilities and investments in human capital with emphasis on technical and vocational training so as to increase overall productivity especially in the rural sector. This will sustain a steady increase in the levels of income, consumption and welfare of each individual, as well as to provide employment opportunities for the growing labour force. Diversification of production both agricultural and industrial will be stimulated in order to reduce the nation's dependence on rubber and tin. New lands will be opened and developed to provide employment for the landless and those with uneconomic holdings. To lay the groundwork for less rapid population growth, an effective programme for family planning will also be instituted.

To attain these objectives, the Plan calls for a level of investment of the order of $10,500 million during 1966-1970, Of this $4,550 million will be expended in the public sector and $5,950 million in the private sector. Of the $4,550 million, about $3,810 million or 84% will be expended on economic and social development and $740 million or 16% on defence and internal security. In formulating the allocation of public investment expenditure the main emphasis is given to projects which will directly increase productivity. These include land development schemes, irrigation and drainage projects, extended programmes of agricultural research, agricultural extension programmes and rubber replanting programmes. In the field of industrial development the programmes include development of more industrial estates and establishment of industrial research activities.

In the Borneo States, high priority is given to the development of infrastructure facilities such as power, water supplies, transport and communications. Out of the total $4,550 million for public development expenditure $464 million will be spent in Sarawak and $373 million in Sabah.

A major share of the responsibility for attaining the Plan's objectives will lie with the private sector. The government will continue to offer the necessary incentives and maintain a favourable investment climate for co-ordinated and purposeful assistance to private entrepreneurs. The overall aim is to induce the level of private investment to rise from an annual level of about $1,010 million in 1965 to about $1,400 million by 1970.

The success of the Plan will largely depend on the availability of the financial resources that can be obtained both internally and from external sources. About $1,900 million will be required from external sources in the form of market and project loans and grant assistance.

The Deputy Prime Minister Tun Abdul Razak when introducing the Plan in Parliament on 15th December, 1965, said, "If we succeed, and succeed we must, we will have taken a major step forward towards the creation of a more united, secure and prosperous Malaysia".

"And succeed we must" indicates Malaysia's determination to implement the Plan successfully.

Technical details
Five commemorative postage stamps each of the 15 cents denomination will be issued on the 1st December, 1966 to mark the First Malaysia Development Plan. Details of the stamps are as follows:

Sizes: Rectangular with the following dimensions perforation to perforation in sheets of 100:
Horizontal - 36 mm
Vertical - 25 mm

Printing Process: Photogravure

Design: The five stamps depict the following themes:
(a) Agriculture

(b) Rural Health


(c) Communications

(d) Education

(e) Irrigation


Colours: All the five stamps are in multi-colour.

Paper: Unwatermarked paper

Printed By: The Government Printing Bureau of Japan

Artist: Enche Ng Peng Nam

Period of Sale: Three months from the date of issue or until stocks are exhausted whichever is earlier.

First Day Cover

The Opening of the National Mosque

At its meeting on the 30th July, 1957, the then Executive Council agreed in principle that the Federation Government should make a substantial contribution towards the construction of a National Mosque in Kuala Lumpur as a gift form the people of the Federation to the Yang Teramat Mulia Tunku Abdul Rahman Putra, then Chief Minister, in appreciation of his services in leading the country to independence.

At a meeting on the 5th March, 1958 of the Menteris Besar and Chief Ministers of the eleven states comprising the Federation of Malaya, it was agreed in principle to construct a National Mosque in Kuala Lumpur to be named "Masjid Tunku Abdul Rahman Putra". A Central Committee headed by the Deputy Prime Minister was formed to be responsible for the administration of the funds, acquiring the site, construction of the Mosque and determining the policy for the collection of funds, etc. throughout the country. The name has been changed at the request of the Prime Minister, Tunku Abdul Rahman Putra to Masjid Negara (National Mosque).

The National Mosque was designed and supervised by the Architects and Design Research Branches, Federal Public Works Department and has taken just over 3 years to complete at a cost of $10,000,000.

Public donations have been received from people of all races and religions in the country. The mosque in fact symbolizes the goodwill and brotherhood of the people.

It stands diagonally opposite the Central Railway Station of Kuala Lumpur, the capital of Malaysia in a laid out garden of approximately 13.5 acres. It forms an impressive termination point to a long view from one end of the multi-level fly-over which spans the Klang River.

The building itself occupies an area of almost 5 acres and consists of the Grand Prayer Hall providing a floor area of 22,500 sq. ft., the Dewan, the Mausoleum, the Library, Offices, the open courtyard and the Minaret.

The Grand Hall is surrounded by deep verandahs which are screened off by gleaming white terrazzo grille work of traditional Islamic designs similar to those in the mosques at Agra and Patephur Sikri in India. It is covered by a high pleated shell concrete dome taking the shape and form of an open umbrella and is supported by 16 columns each of 3'0" diameter. The span of the dome is approximately 145'0" from centre to centre of columns, its apex rising 84'0" above the floor level.

The Grand Hall and the verandas provide a praying space of 80,000 sq. ft. which can accommodate 8,000 people. The floor of the Grand Hall will be covered with fixed carpet whereas the rest will be finished in precast terrazzo slabs.

The Dewan is located on the south side of the Mosque and is an all purpose hall which can seat 500 persons. It has an interesting shell concrete roof in the form of pleated and connoid vaults and is connected to the Main building by a short but wide covered way which during Ramadzan and other religious occasions will serve as a feasting area and also a dias for the annual Quran Reading Competition.

The Mausoleum, situated at the rear of the Mosque, stands in a circular reflecting pool and is connected to the main building by a covered footbridge. It is circular in design and is also covered by a pleated shell concrete dome similar in shape to that of the Grand Hall but having only seven folds one of which covers a reserved area for a National hero's tomb.

The air-conditioned Library and offices are situated to the rear of the main building.

The open courtyard is an important element in the tradition of mosque planning and is placed in front of the Grand Hall. Courtyards in mosques in the Middle East are open to the sky and are invariably furnished with a cluster of fountains in a pavilion or an open pool where ablutions can be performed. The courtyard in the National Mosque is partly covered by 48 independent concrete parasols to provide shade and architectural contrast, the fountains for ablution being located at the floor beneath.

The Minaret is square on plan 12'6" & 12'6" rising from the centre of the long and narrow reflecting pool by the side of the Grand Hall. It has one viewing balcony 138' above the main floor which is accessible by a lift and a spiral staircase. The top of the minaret is decorated with a concrete spire which takes the form of a closed umbrella and soars 90' above the balcony. This completes the theme of the design of the National Mosque, Masjid Negara in Malay, which is based on an open umbrella for the dome over the Grand Hall and a closed umbrella for the spire.

The main floor level of the building is 32' above the Road and is accessible on three sides by wide staircases. The main entrance is on the east side and will primarily be used by those who come on foot whereas those who visit by cars will enter by the south entrances adjacent to which car parks are provided, the north entrance being used by those visiting the Mosque via Young Road.

Ladies have a separate entrance directly connected to the Ladies Ablution Hall and they will offer their prayers in the Gallery at the north end of the building. This Gallery also provides booths for Television and Radio services and sitting accommodation for visitors wishing to witness proceedings held in the National Mosque.

Technical details
Special postage stamps of the 6 cents denominations will be issued on the 10th April 1965 to commemorate the opening of the National in Kuala Lumpur.

Size: Rectangular in horizontal format with the following dimensions perforation to perforation in sheets of 100 stamps :-
(a) Horizontal 36 mm
(b) Vertical 25 mm

Printing Process: Photogravure
Design: A drawing of the National Mosque
Colour: 6 cents - Carmine
15 cents - Chocolate
20 cents - Deep Bluish Green
Paper: PTM Watermarked white paper
Printed by: Harrison & Sons, London

The stamps will be placed on sale in all territories of Malaysia for a period of three months from the date of issue or until stocks are exhausted whichever in earlier.

Stamps in the series


First day cover

Definitive Postage Stamps 1965 State Series (Flowers)

Malaysia which came into being on the 16th September 1963, comprises of the eleven States forming the previous Federation of Malaya, (viz. Johore, Kedah, Kelantan, Malacca, Negri Sembilan, Pahang, Penang, Perak, Perlis, Selangor and Trengganu), Sabah, Sarawak and Singapore. Singapore ceased to be a state of Malaysia from 9th August, 1965.

Malaysia covers an area of about 130,000 square miles. It occupies two distinct regions, the Malay Peninsula which extends south of Thailand from the narrow Kra isthmus to the Straits of Johore, and the north-western coastal area of the island of Borneo. The population of Malaysia numbers just over eight million people according to census and population estimate figures as as the end of 1961. The main sources of income are rubber, tin, timber and iron ore. There are, however, many other industries and crafts of importance to the country's economy. The standard of living in Malaysia and the per capita average income are among the highest in Asia.

The charm and tropical beauty of Malaysia and the variety which pervades her life provide most fascinating subjects for depicting on postage stamps. The first issue of Malaysia definitive postage stamps depicts some of the colourful birds and orchid species of Malaysia. These stamps are in two series.

The National series, which depicts birds, consists of eight denominations, viz. 25c, 30c, 50c, 75c, $1, $2, $5 and $10. These stamps, which do not bear State individuality, are common to all the thirteen States.

The State series, which depicts orchids, consists of seven denominations, viz. 1c, 2c, 5c, 6c, 10c, 15c, and 20c. These stamps bear a portrait of his Highness the Ruler of the State and.or the State Crest and the name of the State in Jawi and Roman characters. The vignette of each denomination is common to every State.

The stamps are printed by Messrs. Harrison and Sons Ltd. in multi-colour by the photogravure process on PTM watermarked paper. They measure 25 mm x 35 mm. The National and State series are in vertical and horizontal format respectively. The artist is Mr. A. Fraser-Brunner.

The orchids depicted in the stamps of the State series are described in this brochure. The birds depicted in the stamps of the National series are described in a separate brochure.

ANGGEREK PENSEL
VANDA HOOKERIANA

This is a very common Malaysian orchid. It occurs in open swamp country in Sabah, Sarawak, and Malaya. In Perak it is commonly called the Kinta weed. In certain coastal areas in Trengganu it scrambles over bushes and small trees. The plant has a narrow stem with terete leaves. The general colour of the flower is pale mauve with rich purple markings on the lip. Many local hybrids have been made using Vanda hookeriana as a parent. It grows and flowers well in beds. The flower are very decorative and make good cut flowers.

ANGGEREK BAMBU
ARUNDINA GRAMINIFOLIA

A common terrestrial orchid, which one can usually see along cut railway banks. The plants occur in clumps and the slender and erect stems are arranged close together. The leaves are like those of grass or bamboo. The flowers are large pinkish purple with a rich rose lip striped with orange lines on each side of the white throat. The inflorescence is terminal and the flowers are produced one or two at a time.

This species is found in open sunny places throughout Malaysia. They occur both in the lowlands and the mountains.

ANGGEREK KASUT
PAPHIOPEDILUM NIVEUM

One of Malaysia's most beautiful orchid is Paphiopedilum niveum. It is commonly known as the slipper orchid because the lip of the flower is in the form of a slipper. The plant itself is small, not more than 9 ins. in height with close set fleshy leaves, which are purple on the undersurface and dark green on top and mottled white. The flowers are almost pure white marked with purple dots especially toward the base.

It is found in the limestone areas of Langkawi and northern Perlis. In Langkawi it is found on limestone rocks by the sea.

This orchid is very much sought after both by local and overseas collectors.

ANGGEREK BULOH HUTAN
SPATHOGLOTTIS PLICATA

A very common terrestrial orchid widely distributed throughout Malaysia and extensively cultivated as a pot plant is the Spathoglottis plicata. The leaves resemble those of a palm and the general colour of the flower is bright purple with the lip a deeper purple and having a yellow calli. There are many cultivated varieties differing in size and colour. Some varieties are white, mauve or pale mauve. Many hybrids have been raised from this species.

ANGGEREK KESTURI
ARACHNIS FLOS-AERIS

This is the true Scorpion orchid and the flowers are slightly fragrant. It is found in Perak and Pahang and also in Sarawak and Sabah. It is a long climbing plant, and usually forms thickets over small trees and bushes.

The general colour of the flower is pale yellow green, with broad and irregular dark purple brown bars and spots. It is a very handsome orchid and grown usually as a bedding plant.

Many hybrids have been made by using this species as a stud.

ANGGEREK LILIN or ANGGEREK EKOR TUPAI
RHYNCOSTYLIS RETUSA

This plant has a beautiful inflorescence with small flowers clustered together. It is called commonly the fox tail orchid because the inflorescence resembles that of a fox's tail. In some States in Malaysia it is referred to as 'ekor tupai' or squirrel's tail. The flower is purplish white with few purple spots. The lip is purple. It is a most handsome orchid and occurs in Langkawi, Kedah, Northern Perak, Kelantan, and Trengganu.

ANGGEREK ANAK BULAN
PHALAENOPSIS VIOLACEA

Of the Phalaenopsis found in Malaysia this is one of the most attractive, despite the short inflorescence and the fact that only one or two flowers open at a time. The leaves are large, broad, glossy and dark green. The flower is pale green flushed with bright purple and the lip is dark purple. The flower is highly scented. This orchid has been used extensively for crossing purposes. It occurs on trees along rivers in Lower Perak, northern Selangor and to a large extent in Sarawak.

First Day Cover

Rice Year 1969

Stamps in the Series

 First Day Cover
 

Rice is the most important and the largest single dietary item consumed by most Malaysians. From a study made in 1960 of the per capita consumption of major foods, it was found that rice constitutes, on the average, 40% of the total food consumption by Malaysians. It can therefore be said that rice is of prime importance to Malaysia and achieving self-sufficiency in rice is of great importance to this nation.

In view of the above, the government has launched the National Rice Year Campaign with the following objectives:

1. To focus public attention on the critical situation of world food supply which has a direct bearing on food supply of Malaysia particularly in rice.
2. To create public consciousness and public support in whatever form towards increasing production of rice in this country.
3. To develop a consciousness to the need for prevention of wastage of available rice and to promote the conservation of rice at all stages of production.
4. To consolidate all efforts within the country towards increasing rice production and effective conservation to meet national self-sufficiency as early as possible.
5. To boost up the position of the rice industry to one of the three main industries in the country and to make rice growing a profitable economic concern.

The national rice campaign is in line with the policy of the Ministry of Agriculture and Co-operatives which includes:

1. Efforts to increase the supply of essential foodstuffs to the level of self-sufficiency in so far as this is economically feasible and possible.
2. Measures to improve productively and living standards of the rural population through greater employment opportunities within the farm sector, by more intensive use of the land.

The demand for rice in Malaysia is increasing year by year due to the fact that the population of Malaysia is increasing a rapid rate of 3% per annum. The total consumption of rice for 1968 in West Malaysia was 911,123 tons. In West Malaysia in 1968 the acreage under wet padi as the main crop was 806,940 acres while 156,950 acres was under the off season crop and the total production from this acreage was 672,680 tons about 74% of the Nation's requirement. 

The present policy of the Government is to try and achieve self-sufficiency in rice in the near future in rice in the near future and if possible to produce for export.

The Government is taking a number of steps to increase the production of rice in this country. Most important of these are schemes for irrigation of which the Muda Scheme will provide irrigation facilities for about 261,000 acres. The Kemubu Scheme will irrigate 50,000 acres. Both these schemes are being financed by a loan from the World Bank. In addition to these there already exist various areas where irrigation provides for double cropping, most important of these being the Tanjong Karang Scheme, Trans-Perak Scheme, Sungei Manik Scheme and many others.

With the new varieties that are systematically being introduced there is no doubt that the income of the farmers depending on paddy numbering over 250,000 families will increase substantially. 

But the provision of irrigation water will not necessarily mean that all farmers will cultivate two crops per year. Several complementary measures will have to be undertaken simultaneously. These include apart from the proper control of water, availability of farm inputs, provision of timely credit at reasonable costs, proper extension services, a good transportation network and proper marketing arrangements. The Government has taken steps to assure that the complementary measures will be present and farmers utilize the water as soon as it is made available

Other steps taken by the Government to promote increased production of rice are the establishment of a Rice Research Unit in Province Wellesley, Padi Fertilizer Subsidy Scheme, the Guaranteed Minimum Price Programme, Padi Cultivators (Control of Rent and Security of Tenure Act of 1967) and the establishment of the Padi Marketing Board. With the current interest taken by the Government of Malaysia to promote increased production of rice, Malaysia is well on the road to achieving self-sufficiency of rice in the near future.

To highlight the National Rice Year Campaign 1969/70, this commemorative postage stamp is being issued. It is prepared especially for this occasion by Malaysia's foremost artist Enche Hoessein Enas. The Stamp depicts a peasant girl with her arms laden with golden sheaves of ripe padi. 

Technical Details

Commemorative postage stamps of the 15 cents and 75 cents denominations to mark the Rice Year 1969 will be issued on 8th December, 1969.

Date: 1969-12-08

Size:

Rectangular with the following dimensions perforation to perforation in sheets of 100:

15 cents - Vertical - 42 mm, Horizontal - 33 mm.

75 cents - Vertical - 42 mm, Horizontal - 33 mm.

Printing Process: Photogravure

Design:

The design, which is common to both denominations, features a painting of a peasant girl with her arms laden with golden sheaves of ripe padi, with a silver border for the 15 cents stamp and a gold border for the 75 cents stamp.

Artist: Enche Mohd. Hoessein bin Enas

Colour: The tow stamps are in multi-colour

Paper: PTM watermarked paper

Printed by: Messrs. Harrison & Sons Ltd. England.

Period of Sale: Until stocks are exhausted.

Kuala Lumpur 98-XVI Commonwealth Games

Technical Details
Date of issue: 1994-10-29
Denomination: RM1 x 2 (gutter pair)
Stamp Size: 28 mm x 38 mm
Perforation: 13
Paper: SPM watermarked, phosphor coated
Printing Process: Lithography
Printer: Security Printers (M) Sdn. Bhd., Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Sheet Content: 10 pairs (20 stamps)
Stamp Designer: Limkokwing Integrated Sdn. Bhd.
Blank First Day Cover: 20c
Presentation Pack: RM2.50

Stamps in the Series


First Day Cover


Commonwealth Games - from promoting good sportsmanship and cross-cultural understanding to meeting aspirations of Vision 2020

The Commonwealth Games are held by member countries, comprising 60 nations around the world. Since the first Games in 1930 in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada, the Games have been held every four years except when they were suspended during Wold War II. In 1998, for the first time in the history of the Commonwealth, the Games will be held in an Asian member nation - Malaysia.

21st July 1992 was a day of national pride and world recognition for Malaysia. On this day in Barcelona, Spain, Malaysia won the bid to host the XVI Commonwealth Games in Kuala Lumpur in 1998.

Our country's impressive track record in successfully organizing world-class sports championships was instrumental in the selection of Kuala Lumpur as the host city.

Entrusted with the mission to organize the Kuala Lumpur 98 Games efficiently in terms of operations and financial viability is Sukom Ninety Eight Berhad. Formed in June 1992, the company derived its name from the combination of two words in Malaysia's official language: Sukan (sports) and Komanwel (Commonwealth) - Sukom.

With the first of four years of preparations already under way, Malaysians in both public and private sectors are working together with Sukom to prove to the world that Malaysia has the ability to stage the best ever Commonwealth Games. This resounding success will mark an important milestone in our country's march towards Vision 2020.

A distinctive logo chosen by the Malaysian public
21st July 1998 marked the first anniversary of the day when Malaysia made history in winning the right to host the XVI Commonwealth Games. On this anniversary date, the refined bid logo together with the best five designs, shortlisted from 41 entries, were presented to the public at Dataran Merdeka, Kuala Lumpur.

Since Kuala Lumpur 98 is an event of great significance to Malaysians throughout the country, the public were invited to choose their favourite logo. The response was overwhelming, with the majority voting for the refined bid logo.

The officially adopted Games logo draws its inspiration from Malaysia's national flower - the hibiscus or bunga raya. Flowers are a universal symbol of welcome, which is in keeping with the spirit of the Friendly Games concept of the Commonwealth Games. The hibiscus is stylized to represent CG and 98.

The rich burst of Malaysia's national colours - red, yellow, and blue - is a striking modern portrait of a confident, young, vibrant nation. The six pollen depict the six regions over which the Commonwealth extends.

This is the fist time in the history of the Commonwealth Games logos that the colour yellow is incorporated besides the traditional colours red, white and blue of the British flag - the Union Jack.

A friendly mascot to welcome visitors to Kuala Lumpur 98
The official mascot for Kuala Lumpur 98 - XVI Commonwealth Games, Wira the Orang Utan, was unveiled to the public by our Prime Mnister Dato' Seri Dr Mahathir Mohamad at Merdeka Square on 12th April 1994.

The orang utan was chosen as the Games' mascot because of its special significance to Malaysia - the host country. It is the only large and intelligent primate with a Malay name that is recognized worldwide. Literally translated, orang utan means 'Man of the Forest'.

Wira, our official mascot, is characterized by the friendly and lovable nature of the orang utan. Wira is a symbol of the warmth and friendliness of Malaysians.

Official Opening of the National Library Building

TECHNICAL DETAILS
Date of Issue: 1994-12-16
Denomination: 30c, 50c, & RM1
Stamp Size 28mm x 38mm
Perforation: 13
Paper: SPM watercoated phosphor coated
Printing Process: Lithography
Printer: Security Printers (M) Sdn. Bhd., Malaysia
Sheet Composition: 100 stamps
Designer: Image Promotions Sdn. Bhd.
Blank First Day Cover: 20c

Stamps in the Series


First Day Cover


ARCHITECTURAL MAGNIFICENCE
Plans to set  up the Malaysian National National Library began in 1970. In 1978, a piece of land measuring 2.2 hectares along Jalan Tun Razak, Kuala Lumpur was earmarked for the National Library Building.

In 1979, the Government appointed a team of consultants to undertake the National Library Building project. In 1982, the Government approved its initial design concept.

The design of the National Library reflects a truly Malaysian identity based on the traditional Malay head-gear - the tengkolok, which symbolizes a prestigious Malaysian culture.

The three Tengkolok shaped roofs meet together around an open-air amphitheatre courtyard to symbolise the unity of the country as well as the three main objectives of the National Library. Drawing inspiration from the country’s rich cultural heritage, the roof bears the songket design etched in blue tiles.

The arrangement of the open areas encourage the users to venture into all areas of the Library. The ambience of limitless space seeks to create an awakening of the intellectual faculties. The Skylight at the peak tends to provide a sense of infinite achievement in knowledge. There is also an open area within the five vaults of the atrium.

The seven floors of the library house various facilities available in the library. The pathway to these floors is linked by a striking staircase. Every level of the library accommodates a vast network of the library’s various services, collections and information. The library provides facilities for the handicapped as well.

A striking blend of traditional and contemporary architecture, the National Library has a floor space of 22,037 square metres and can accommodate 1,000 readers at any time, 400 staff and a collection of one million books.

NATIONAL HERITAGE
Handwritten manuscripts in the Malay language represent an important part of the cultural wealth of the Malay people.

Since the early days, when the Malays first learned to write and particularly during the period when Islam penetrated into the Malay world bringing with it the Perso-Arabic script, and Jawi, thousands of manuscripts were written on materials such as parchment, lontor, treebark and also paper. The manuscripts covered a wide range of subject which reflect the rich culture and high intellectual achievement of the Malays. Various tales and hikayat, in prose or poetry, had been produced for the entertainment of the court and the ordinary man, Often the court and the nobility ordered genealogies, histories, customs and laws to be compiled by court scribes. Manuscripts on the teaching of Islam and Islam-related literature abound, attesting to the importance of Islam in the life of the Malays.

Many of the early Malay valuable manuscripts, are now housed in repositories outside the Malay world. Malay manuscripts in the hands of individuals were not cared for properly and thus exposed to various sources of deterioration such as insects and excess humidity level.

Recognizing the need to preserve the intellectual and cultural heritage of the Malays, the National Centre for Malay Manuscrpts was formally set up as a division in the National Library in 1985. Since then the National Library has continued to play its role in developing the largest Malay Manuscript collection in the world.

INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY
The application of computer in the National Library began with its involvement in MALMARC (Malaysian Machine Readable Catalogue) Project in 1978. The MALMARC system is Malaysia's largest centralised cataloguing service and was also responsible for maintaining the Malaysia National Bibliography and Union List of Serials Databases (PERPUNET). It is a joint project between libraries from Universiti Sains Malaysia, Universiti Malaya, Universiti Utara Malaysia, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Universiti Pertanian Malaysia and the National Library of Malaysia.

In 1982, a micro computer was purchased for the purpose of processing and the production of the Malaysian Newspaper Index. In 1985, the National Library started using the MINISIS software for the processing and production of Malaysia Periodicals Index. In 1988, the National Library purchased the Virginia Tech Library System (VTLS) running on the HP 3000 series 950 hardware. This system caters for the Cataloging, Acquisition and Fund Accounting, Serials Management, Online Public Access Catalogue and Circulation functions of the National Library. Online Services for the library users of the National Library began in 1989.

In keeping with the rapid progress in technology, a comprehensive multimedia collection ranging from audio and video cassettes, film, compact disc, slides to laser disc and CDROM, the most up-to-date media format today is made available for users.

In order to be in the forefront in providing current information services, the National Library subscribes to both local and internaitonal databases. It has also embarked on a project to set up a nationwide electronic library information network called "JARINGAN ILMU" (Knowledge Network). This system enables the various institutions to share information resources through the electronic library network.