The IXth Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference

THE COMMONWEALTH PARLIAMENTARY ASSOCIATION
Founded in 1911, the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association has the following aims:

• To promote understanding and cooperation among those persons engaged in and those formerly associated with Parliaments and Legislatures in the countries of the Commonwealth of Nations:
  (i) by the exchange of information and visits; and
  (ii) by Conferences of Members of such Parliaments and Legislatures
• Similarly, to promote understanding and cooperation with Legislators of countries outside the Commonwealth having close historical and parliamentary association with them

Membership of the Association is of two types and is restricted to persons who are or have been Members of Parliament: Ordinary Members being those currently Members of Parliament; and Associate Members those who have been but are not currently Members of Parliament.

The achievements and the significance of the Association in the Commonwealth may be summed up in its own words:

In all the years of its existence, the Association claims credit for no specific constitutional change, no far-reaching legislative enactment, not even so much as a resounding resolution; yet it has played a genuine and valuable part in the development of ideas about and within the Commonwealth. It is indeed something more than the mere words "An Association of the Parliaments of the Commonwealth" can imply. Through the facilities it offers, the various legislators can obtain the necessary knowledge and understanding of each other and of each other's problems without which no common approach is possible. They can confer frankly as with members of the same family and take back with them to their own lands the fruits of experience they have gathered which, in the course of their normal Parliamentary  duties, they can distribute among their colleagues and constituents. By these means throughout the entire Commonwealth, a certain common background of thought and opinion can be created, which at times of international crisis may be reflected in a readiness for common action.

The 9th Post-war Parliamentary Conference meets at the newly completed Parliament House which stands in the Lake Gardens of Kuala Lumpur, the Federal Capital of Malaysia.

It is an impressive building on top of a hill and is visible for miles around. Designed and supervised by the Federal Public Works Department, this building has taken nearly 2.5 years to complete at a cost of approximately $17 million inclusive of plant and equipment, furniture and fittings.

The building itself occupies an area of almost two and a quarter acres; there are twenty levels in the tower block and three levels in the main building providing a total of approximately 360,000 square feet of floor space. The two Chambers of the Houses of Parliament are in the main block, in which are also a Banqueting Hall, a Library, Entrance Halls, Office Accommodation for the staff of Parliament and for Government Officers attending Parliament, Office Suites for the President of the Senate, the Speaker of the House, and the Prime Minister, Lounges, Coffee Rooms and Dining Rooms for Members, a Press Room, and Committee Rooms. In the tower block, there are Office Suites for the use of Ministers during Meetings of Parliament, the Cabinet Chamber, and offices for ordinary Members of Parliament. The whole Parliament House is air-conditioned by two units having a  total output of 2,000 h.p., which are controlled centrally.

Of the two Chambers, the larger one is that of the House of Representatives. It will have a normal capacity of 160 Members of Parliament, and has in addition provision for about 260 members of the public, 36 Press Representatives and 60 Government Officials. For the State Opening of Parliament, for which the Chamber of the House of Representatives will also be used, it will be possible to seat about 220 Members in the pool of the Chamber. The Senate Chamber has seating accommodation for 60 Senators, about 110 members of the public, 30 Official and 24 Pressmen.

Technical Details
Special postage stamps of the 20 cents and 30 cents denominations will be issued on the 4th November, 1963 to commemorate the 9th Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference which will be held in Kuala Lumpur.

Size: Diamond shape, measuring 35 mm each side perforation to perforation.

Printing Process: Photogravure

Design: The design features and outline of the new Parliament Building and the emblem of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association

Colour:
20 cents - Outline of the building and emblem in white, lettering in gold, on dark green background


30 cents - Outline of the building and emblem in white, lettering in gold, on lake 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
 

4th World Orchid Conference Singapore Malaysia

4th WORLD ORCHID CONFERENCE
It was in 1954 that the 1st World Orchid Conference was held in St. Louis, U.S.A. The American Orchid Society, Inc. sponsored it, and so grew the idea that the best and most knowledgeable orchidists of the world should meet once in three years to exchange their knowledge, to impart their ideas to the public and to get to know each other better.

The 2nd World Orchid Conference was held most appropriately in Honolulu then at the crest of its orchid wave, and it was a fine success, for it combined availability of lovely plants with a site already famous as a tourist paradise. In 1960, the Royal Horticultural Society, London, was given the opportunity of being host to the 3rd World Orchid Conference and the world saw the splendour of its annual Chelsea Flower Show. It was here that the Malayan Orchid Society's exhibit came into prominence. The bright and gay tones of Malayan orchids literally opened the eyes of the thousands who visited the exhibit. The queue in front of the 46 foot long exhibit was 12 deep and jammed tight hour after hour for the duration of the show.

This success was very largely responsible for the fact that this year Singapore is the host to the 4th World Orchid Conference.

The Conference will be held at the Victoria Theatre, beginning from Tuesday, 8th October, 1963. It will be opened by H.E. the Yang di-Pertuan Negara, and will last till Friday, 11th October, 1963.

Preceding the Conference, the Malayan Orchid Society will be holding an Orchid Festival Show on the 3rd October, 1963. The Show will be held in the premises of the Singapore Turf Club. It will give an opportunity for Malaysia to show its orchids, and for professional growers and dealers to exhibit their products and wares to overseas orchidists.

The Singapore Conference is sponsored by three organizations, namely, the American Orchid Society, Inc., the Royal Horticultural Society, London, and the Malayan Orchid Society. In addition, each of these societies has underwritten the Conference against loss to the sum of nearly $50,000. Also, if there is a profit, after a token sum has been deposited into the Conference fund, all excess has been most generously promised by the American Orchid Society, Inc. to be used in Singapore as a fund for research on Malaysian orchids.

The Conference and Show will serve the purposes of showing Malaysian orchids to the world and providing opportunities for obtaining up-to-date orchid knowledge and funds for research.

Technical Details
Special postage stamps of the 6 cents and 25 cents denominations will be issued on 3rd October, 1963, to mark the 4th World Orchid Conference.

Size: 42 mm x 31 mm perforation to perforation in vertical format

Design: Orchid flowers

Colour: Orchid flowers in natural colour and different background colour of each denomination

Printing Process: Photogravure

Paper: Unwatermarked white paper

Printed by: Messrs. Joh. Enschede En Zonen, Holland

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

First Day Cover
 

25th Anniversary United Nations Commemorative Stamps

UNITED NATIONS 25TH ANNIVERSARY COMMEMORATION
The United Nations came into being on 24th October, 1945. This year will see its 25th Anniversary which will be celebrated extensively not only by this World Body but also by member nations. As one of its many commemorative activities, the Government of Malaysia will be issuing on this occasion a 25th Anniversary Commemorative stamp.

A quarter of a century is a long time for any organization to survive. The United Nations has been through many a troublesome period, but Malaysia has always pledged her support for this worthy body. One might ask why this body is so esteemed in a world so fraught with trouble.

The answers might be found in the Charter of the U.N.  itself. Some of the objectives of the U.N. have been formulated precisely to make the world a better and safer place to live in. These objectives can be described briefly as:

1. To maintain international peace and security.
2. To develop friendly relations among nations.
3. To achieve co-operation in solving international problems of an economic, social, cultural or humanitarian character.
4. To be a center for harmonizing the actions of nations in achieving character.

These are certainly worthy causes and are some of reasons for Malaysia's support for the U.N.

The United Nations does give much of its assistance through its specialized agencies, some of which have inter-governmental status.

The Economic and Social Council, as a co-ordinating body for these agencies, seeks to promote (as  specified in the Charter) "higher standards of living, full employment and conditions of economic and social progress for all peoples.

It is the main coordinating organ for such agencies as the International Labour Organization, the Food and Agriculture Organization, the World Health Organization, the International Atomic Energy Agency, International Telecommunications Union, UNESCO and a host of other agencies which are formed for the benefit of mankind.

None of these agencies and bodies of the U.N. can function without the financial assistance of member States.

At the moment there are several U.N. projects in Malaysia which are being undertaken by these U.N. specialized agencies. As an example, the Food and Agricultural Organization is at present setting up a Fisherman's Training Center as one of its many projects. It is also assisting in the Forest Industries. The United Nations Development Programme is assisting the Malaysian Government in carrying out surveys and feasibility studies to determine the economic potential and to plan the productive use of national resources; also in establishing and strengthening educational and training institutions. Many F.A.O. and I.T.U experts are brought over and many fellowships are granted to Malaysian citizens.

Apart from its economic and technical work, the U.N. is also used as a "courtroom for world opinion". It is a place where countries deliberate to sort out their various political problems vis-a-vis one another. Such international crises as the Korean Crisis (1950), Congo (1960) and Cuba (1962) have been resolved by means of this world body. On the other hand, many problems have not been resolved. The U.N. does have its defects and is by no means a perfect body. However, it is a useful meeting place for diplomats and the proof of its usefulness may be seen in the fact that it is already 25 years old.

The 25th Anniversary of the U.N. is thus certainly an auspicious occasion not only for the U.N. but also for Malaysia in that the anniversary is to commemorate for Malaysia the good work that the U.N. has done for her and the mutual benefits to both. The issue of this 25th Anniversary Commemorative Stamp is one tribute that Malaysia is giving this esteemed world body.

Technical Details

Commemorative postage stamps of 25 cents, 30 cents and 50 cents denominations will be issued to mark the 25th Anniversary of the United Nations on 24th October, 1970.

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

Horizontal - 35 mm

Vertical - 25 mm

Design: The three stamps feature the Emblem of the United Nations and 25 Doves of Peace.

Colour: 

25 cents - The Emblem in yellow and the Doves in white against a brown background.

30 cents - The Emblem in blue and the Doves in white against a yellow/green background.

50 cents - The Emblem and Doves in white against a green background.

Artist: Enche Ng Peng Nam

Printing Process: Delacryl

Paper: Unwatermarked white paper

Printed by: Messrs. Thomas De La Rue & Co. Ltd., England

Period of Sale: Until stocks are exhausted.

First day cover

 

The Centenary of the International Telecommunication Union

INTERNATIONAL TELECOMMUNICATION UNION CENTENARY
Before going into the details of the International Telecommunication Union, it is perhaps best, for the benefit for those unfamiliar with this organization, to define the word "Telecommunication as "Any transmission, emission or reception of signs, signals, writing, images and sounds of intelligence of any nature by wire, radio, optical or other electromagnetic system". In other words, telegraph, telephone, radio and all their applications such as telex and television are encompassed in the field of Telecommunications.

Through these media it is possible for people to communicate with one another over vast distances. But difficulty is often met when it comes to crossing the man-made frontier between nations. This was clear right from the beginning, more than a hundred years ago people first started sending telegrams from one country to another (the telegrams had to be handed across the frontier). Some kind of international agreement was therefore necessary.

It was for this reason therefore, that the I.T.U. originated on 17th May. 1865 with the signing of the International Telegraph Convention. It is the oldest of intergovernmental organizations which have become specialized agencies in relation with the United Nations.

In 1876, the telephone was invented and then towards the close of the 19th Century, radio. These new communication media also became international and regulations were drawn up for their use.

An important step forward for the organization was taken in Madrid in 1932 when two plenipotentiary conferences were held - a Telegraph and Telephone Conference, and a Radio Telegraph Conference. On that occasion, the two conventions were amalgamated into a single "International Telecommunication Convention" and the countries which signed or acceded to it formed the International Telecommunication Union, replacing the Telegraph Union.

The present headquarters of the I.T.U. is situated in Geneva, Switzerland, in which four permanent organs are to be found -

• General Secretariat
• International Frequency Registration Board (IFRB);
• International Radio Consultative Committee (CCIR)
• International Telegraph & Telephone Consultative Committee (CCITT)

The I.T.U. at present consists of 119 members and one Associate member. Malaysia is a member of the I.T.U.

The General Secretariat is the organ of liaison between telecommunication Administrations throughout the world. With it are deposited instruments of ratification of the Convention and instruments of accession. It also publishes numerous documents essential for the efficient running of telecommunications services and also a monthly publication entitled the Telecommunication Journal.

The main task of the International Frequency Registration Board is to decide whether radio frequencies which countries assign to their radio stations (and which they have notified to the Board) are in accordance with the Convention and the Radio Regulations and will not cause harmful interference to other stations. An average of more than 1700 frequency assignments, or change of assignments, notices from countries arrive at the IFRB each week. Another important task of the IFRB is to work out seasonal High Frequency Broadcasting Schedules.

The International Radio Consultative Committee and the International Telegraph and Telephone Consultative Committee deal respectively with technical radio problems and technical telegraph and telephone problems. Each Committee holds a Plenary Assembly every few years. The Plenary Assembly draws up a list of technical telecommunication subjects or "Questions", the study of which would lead to improvements in International Radio Communication or International Telegraphy and Telephony. These questions are then entrusted to a number of Study Groups, composed of experts from different countries, which draw up Recommendations which are then submitted to the next Plenary Assembly. If the Assembly adopts the Recommendations they are published.

On 15th November, 1947, the General Assembly of the United Nations acknowledged the I.T.U. as the specialized agency in the field of telecommunications, under an agreement defining the means whereby the two international organizations cooperate. With the spirit of cooperation, the Union, since 1952, has participated in the "Expanded Program of Technical Assistance" carried out jointly by the United Nations and the Specialized Agencies. The activities now cover twenty-two countries which receive advice from experts or obtain further training for their specialists from fellowship grants. In addition, the Union cooperates in the new United Nations "Special Fund" for which it draws up plans, recruits experts and helps in the implementation of projects. In this particular aspect, the Telecommunications Department, Malaysia has benefited considerably in that the United Nations has allotted several million dollars from its "Special Fund" to assist in the erection of a new Telecommunications Training Centre in Gurney Road, Kuala Lumpur.

Malaysia, as a member of the International Telecommunication Union, joins all other nations of the world in celebrating the Centenary of this important world organization.

Technical Details
Special postage stamps of the 2 cents, 25 cents and 50 cents denominations will be issued on the 17th May 1965 to commemorate the Centenary of the International Telecommunication Union.

Size: Rectangular with the following dimensions perforation to perforation:
Horizontal - 36 mm
Vertical - 25 mm

Printing Process: Photogravure

Design: The design features a Microwave Tower and the I.T.U. emblem.

Colour:
2 c. - Orange with lilac background

25 c. - Orange with brown background

50 c. - Orange with green background


Paper: Unwatermarked paper

Printed by: Helio-Courvoisier S.A. Switzerland

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

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

33rd Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference

Commemorative Issue of Postage Stamps to Mark the 33rd Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference

Date of Issue: 1987-09-01
Denominations: 20 cents, and $1.00
Stamp Size: 31.5 mm x 48 mm
Paper: SPM Watermarked, phosphor coated
Printing Process: Lithography
Printer: Security Printers (M) Sdn. Bhd. Petaling Jaya, Malaysia
Sheet Composition: 50 stamps
Designer: Raja Zahabuddin R. Yaacob

Stamps in the Series:

First Day Cover:



COMMONWEALTH PARLIAMENTARY ASSOCIATION
The Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) is an association comprising of Commonwealth Parliamentarians who, irrespective of race, religion or culture, are united by community interest, respect for the rule of law, individual rights and freedom, and the pursuit of positive ideals of parliamentary democracy.

The CPA provides the sole means of regular consultation between Members of Commonwealth Parliaments. It seeks to foster understanding and cooperation among them and also to promote the study of and respect for parliamentary institution. It pursues these objectives by means of Annual Commonwealth Parliamentary Conferences and regional conferences, the interchange of delegation, seminars, publications, notably The Parliamentarian and two Newsletters on CPA activities, parliamentary and political events, and through the work of the Parliamentary Information and Reference Center.

The Malaysia Branch of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association was established arising from a resolution of the Federal Legislative Council on 19th April 1950. As is the case in other Commonwealth countries which practice the Federation system, all State Legislative Assemblies of the various States in Malaysia are State Branches of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association.

The 33rd Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference to be held in Kuala Lumpur from 26th August to 6th September 1987 is the third CPA Conference being hosted by Malaysia. Malaysia played host for the first time in 1963 when the 9th CPA Conference was held in Kuala Lumpur. Malaysia had the honor of hosting the CPA Conference for the second time when the 17th CPA Conference was held in Kuala Lumpur.

About 350 participants including delegates, their spouses, observers and secretaries are expected to attend the 33rd CPA Conference. Before the conference, participants will be taken on pre-conference tours to Penang, Pangkor Island (Perak), Malacca, Kuantan (Pahang), Kota Bharu (Kelantan), Kuala Terengganu (Terengganu), Kota Kinabalu (Sabah), Kuching (Sarawak) and Johore. They will also witness the 30th Anniversary National Day celebrations to be held on 31st August 1987. The 33rd CPA Conference will be opened by the Rt. Hon. Dato’ Seri Dr. Mahathir bin Mohamad, the Prime Minister of Malaysia on Tuesday, 1st September 1987 at the Dewan Rakyat, Parliament House.

International Conference On Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking

Commemorative Issue of Postage Stamps to Mark the International Conference On Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking

Date of Issue: 1987-06-08
Denominations: 2 'se-tenant' pairs with values of 20 cents and 40 cents
Stamp Size: 28 mm x 38 mm
Paper: SPM watermarked, phosphor coated
Printing Process: Lithography
Printer: Security Printers (M) Sdn. Bhd., Petaling Jaya, Malaysia
Sheet Composition: 100 stamps
Designer: Kathy Wong

Stamps in the Series:

First Day Cover:


United Nations International Conference on Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking (17 – 26 June 1987, Vienna)

The widespread abuse of drugs has become a human tragedy. Clearly, drug abuse and the illicit trafficking in drugs are problems no longer confined to small segments of a given population. The drug problem has enticed, captivated and will ultimately destroy people from all walks of life. The growing drug menace has invaded homes, the workplace and educational institutions, affecting individuals of all ages and classes. Beyond the human destruction caused by drug dependence is the damage to traditional values, lifestyles, and national economies.

Moreover the spread of corruption, violence and terrorism linked to the illicit traffic in drugs, undermines the very security and political stability of nations.

It was in response to this growing threat that in 1985 the United Nations General Assembly decided to convene an International Conference on Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking (ICDAIT) in Vienna, Austria, in June 1987.

The main objective of this conference would be to generate a more concerted, comprehensive and truly world wide effort to combat this drug problem in all its forms at the national, regional and international levels. The Conference would also endorse a comprehensive multidisciplinary outline of future activities focusing on concrete and substantive issues directly relevant to the problems of drug abuse and illicit trafficking. The Conference is expected to declare the international community’s commitment and resolve to eradicate the drug problem.

The Conference will focus on the following issues:
a) intensifying concerted efforts by governmental, intergovernmental and non-governmental organizations to combat all forms of drug abuse, illicit trafficking and related criminal activities leading to the further development of national strategies that could be a basis for international actions;
b) creating heightened national and international awareness and sensitivity concerning the pernicious effects of the abuse of narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances, paying due attention to the demand dimension of the drug problem and to the role of the mass media, non-governmental organizations and other channels of dissemination of information about all aspects of the drug problem, especially in the prevention of drug abuse;
c) strengthening and expanding of national and international mechanisms for exchanging information and developing programs on illicit demand, prevention and/or reduction, including promoting the rational use of psychoactive medicines, preventive education, community participation, treatment, rehabilitation and social reintegration, together with research and training;
d) promoting strict and consistent implementation, at both the national and international levels, of the provisions of the Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs, 1961 and that Convention as amended by the 1972 Protocol and the 1971 Convention on Psychotropic Substances which all for limiting the use of narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances to medical and scientific purposes and, thus, preventing illegal traffic, and promoting further the accession to those Conventions of the widest possible number of States;
e) achieving as much harmonization as possible and reinforcing national legislation, bilateral treaties, regional arrangements and other international legal instruments, especially as they relate to enforcement and penalties against those involved in all aspects of illicit trafficking, including forfeiture of illegally acquired assets and extradition, and developing cooperation in dealing with drug abusers, including their treatment and rehabilitation;
f) making further progress towards eradicating the illicit sources of raw materials for drugs through a comprehensive program of integrated rural development, the development of alternative means of livelihood and retraining, law enforcement and, where appropriate, crop substitution;
g) controlling more effectively the production, distribution and consumption of narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances with a view to limiting them exclusively to medical and scientific purposes, in accordance with existing conventions, and, in this connection, underlining the central role of the international Narcotic Control Board;
h) strengthening the United Nations coordination of drug abuse control activities by, inter alia, increasing support for the United Nations Fund for Drug Abuse Control and reinforcing regional and other cooperation between member states;
i) supporting strongly current high priority initiatives and programs of the United Nations, including the elaboration of a convention against illicit traffic in narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances which considers, in particular, those aspects of the problem not envisaged in existing international instruments;
j) considering whether existing mechanisms, whereby experiences, methodologies, and other information in law enforcement, preventive education, treatment and rehabilitation, research and development of manpower relating to the prevention and control of drug abuse can be exchanged, should be improved or, if necessary, complemented by new mechanisms.

Malaysia fully supports this initiative for the convening of an international Conference and intends to play a major and constructive role at this Conference. Malaysia believes that the problem of drug abuse and illicit trafficking must be truly internationalized by the world community before eradication of the problem is possible. The success of international control on illicit drug production, trafficking and abuse is the sum of individual nation’s commitment and responsibilities.

Malaysia has declared drug abuse and illicit trafficking as a primary security concern so that priority and urgency can be given to contain this problem commensurate with the gravity and seriousness of the situation. Malaysia believes that it is the moral responsibility of governments to initiate measures at checking drug abuse. Governments must recognize that there exists a grave problem in society that needs to be tackled immediately. This requires political will and commitment at the highest level of government. Only then could policies relating to public awareness and community action be developed. The responsibility to wage the war against illicit drugs however does not rest solely with the government. The anti drug effort also requires total community involvement for it to be effective. We in Malaysia believe that all citizens and community groups must play a major role in support of the government’s effort to eradicate drug abuse and illicit trafficking.

LET’S BUILD A BETTER WORLD, FREE FROM DRUG ABUSE

International Year of Shelter for the Homeless 1987

International Year of Shelter for the Homeless 1987

Date of Issue: 1987-04-06
Denominations: 20 cents, $1.00
Stamp Size: 31.5 mm x 48 mm
Paper: SPM watermarked phosphor coated
Printing Process: Lithography
Printer: Security Printers (M) Sdn. Bhd. Petaling Jaya, Malaysia
Sheet Composition: 50 stamps
Designer: Kajian Senilukis dan Senireka, Institut Teknologi Mara

Stamps in the Series:

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United Nations has declared 1987 as the International Year of Shelter for the Homeless (IYSH). Malaysia is one of the many countries which support this declaration. The objective of this declaration is to focus on the problems faced by people who are in need of shelter and proper homes. Besides this, IYSH is also determined to create an awareness on the part of the government and other organizations involved to renew and step up efforts in providing as well as improving the living conditions of the people in a particular country.

In Malaysia, the implementation of the five year development plans is in line with the philosophy of IYSH which is to help the lower income groups by building low-cost houses in urban and rural areas as well as the development of squatter areas.

In line with this policy, a project called NADI was implemented in the Federal Territory aimed at improving the living conditions and the socio-economic status of the lower income groups, especially the squatter areas. The government has also given priority to those who earn less than $750/month to won low-cost houses. This involves the building of some 80,000 units of low cost houses per year from 1986 – 1988. This is a firm commitment from the government in fulfilling the basic needs and welfare of the people. The government has also implemented programs to restructure traditional villages and the development of new villages in order to create a viable settlement of human beings and to increase their socio-economic status.

As a mark of the Malaysia’s government support and commitment to the philosophy of IYSH, a seminar will be held in Malaysia on 6th April 1987. The aim of this seminar is to increase the awareness and involvement of all sectors towards to the programs and the philosophy of IYSH in this country.

20c – the design depicts a comfortable low cost housing scheme in a rural area complete with basic amenities and infrastructure


$1.00 – the design depicts a graphic visual which symbolized man’s (family) basic need for shelter (house)

The 15th Anniversary of ASEAN

Commemorative Postage Stamps To Mark The 15th Anniversary of ASEAN

Date of Issue: 1982-08-08
Denominations: 15 cents, $1
Stamp Size: 40 mm x 30 mm
Paper: Unwatermarked white, coated postage stamp paper
Printing Process: Lithography
Printer: Messrs. John Waddington of Kirkstall Ltd., Leeds, England
Designer: Ajib N.S. Kuala Lumpur

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The Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN) is and Association established by the five governments of Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore and Thailand under the Declaration of ASEAN, otherwise known as ‘Bangkok Declaration’ signed by the Foreign Ministers of ASEAN countries on 8th August 1967.

ASEAN was formed on the premise that cooperation among nations in the spirit of equality and partnership would bring mutual benefits and stimulate solidarity which can contribute towards building the foundations of peace, stability and prosperity in the world community at large and among the ASEAN countries and the region of South East Asia in particular.

It has been the ASEAN’s aspiration and hope to promote peace and stability, prosperity, and harmony between the peoples of the five nations. To attain the principles and objectives of ASEAN, member countries have put their confidence in regional cooperation which is promoted through collaboration in politics, economics, social, cultural, information, and other areas.

August 8, 1982 marks the fifteenth anniversary of the Association. Today ASEAN has grown into a viable and dynamic organization in this region, which has received international recognition. During its one and a half decades of existence, ASEAN has achieved great success in developing regional resilience through cooperative projects in the fields of economics, social, science and technology, energy, health, cultural, communication, transportation and environment.

There has been cooperation in various fields in implementing ASEAN’s many projects. In the economic field, the Preferential Trading Arrangement, the ASEAN Food Security Reserve and the ASEAN Industrial Projects are major concrete examples of intensified cooperation within ASEAN. In the industrial sector, ASEAN has identified the following projects for regional collaboration: Urea Project in Indonesia and the Ammonia Project in Bintulu, Sarawak, Copper Fabrication in Philippines and Rock Salt Soda Ash in Thailand. Two of the ASEAN industrial projects are being implemented while the rest are being actively pursued.

The socio-cultural field has also been given prominence and this has resulted in numerous workshops, seminars, and projects aimed at achieving a greater understanding and appreciation of ASEAN’s rich and varied cultural heritage.

Several committees have been established by ASEAN under various sectors to make project proposals, undertake research and reviews and oversee implementation of the projects. The Committees are the Committee on Forest, Agriculture and Forestry (COFAF), the Committee on Transport and Communication (COTAC), the Committee on Industry, Minerals and Energy (COIME), the Committee on Trade and Tourism (COTT), the Committee on Finance and Banking (COFAB), the Committee on Culture and Information (COCI), the Committee on Social Development (COSD) and the Committee on Science and Technology (COST).

ASEAN Cooperation is not only restricted to its member countries but relationships are also being fostered with other nations. Externally, the past decade has seen the intensification of activities with third countries and international organizations. Dialogues have been established with the European Economic Community and organization associated with United Nations which are close-partners in cooperation and provide assistance through financing, feasibility studies, technical cooperation and expertise in modern technologies in the implementation of ASEAN projects.

The establishment of regular forums of economic collaboration with other countries is aimed not only at seeking aid and assistance but also at developing a permanent mechanism for closer and more productive economic relationships in trade, industrial and investment promotion, science and technology and other development-related areas. The signing of the ASEAN-EEC Economic Cooperation Agreement and ASEAN-Canada Cooperation Agreement in particular, are milestones in ASEAN efforts to accelerate the economic development of the region.

ASEAN’s cooperative efforts to date are a testimony to the faith of the governments and peoples of ASEAN that regional cooperation is the best means of achieving peace, stability and prosperity in the South East Asian region. The spirit of give and take and the intensification of links between peoples of the region augurs well for the future growth and stability of ASEAN.

The Global Eradication of Smallpox

Commemorative Postage Stamps To Mark The Global Eradication of Smallpox

Series Details
Date of Issue: 1978-09-30
Denominations: 15 cents, 30 cents, 50 cents
Stamp Sizes: 35 mm x 25 mm
Paper: Unwatermarked white security paper
Printing Process: Lithography
Printer: Messrs. Harrison & Sons, High Wycombe, England
Designer: Cik Nik Nurida Salleh
Stamps in this series:

First Day Cover:



Global Eradication of Smallpox
Introduction
Today will be written into the history of man’s achievements in health and medicine. Smallpox in its most virulent and deadly form has been one of the ghastly companions of human race since recorded time. Today an international commission of medical experts from nine countries, after studying the evidence of a painstaking, methodical two-year research, has signed the final certificate of smallpox in Asia. The disease of variola major has been wiped out. The prophecy of Edward Jenner, 18th century pioneer of vaccination has been fulfilled.

The eradication of smallpox represents one of the historic milestones in medicine, but – more than that – this first global eradication of a major disease provides an outstanding example of the constructive results nations can achieve when they work together towards the common cause of better health for all.

When WHO smallpox eradication program began 10 years ago, 30 countries were endemic and many more reported importations of the virus. Now, entire continents have been swept clean of this dread infection, and the population still at risk is but a minute fraction of that over which it held a way just a decade ago.

In achieving these extraordinary results, the public health services of many nations have been strengthened – national reporting systems for all the communicable disease have been improved, better techniques for immunization have been developed and communicable disease control services have evolved.

As victory over variola becomes a reality now, we are at the “point of no return”. It is the beginning of the end for smallpox, which can never return to ravage the earth as in centuries past. But it is also the beginning of a new era for WHO, which having shown what can be done to eliminate disease when all nations join together in a unified coordinated effort – can now attack more effectively the multitude of other major health problems still confronting us.

Dr. H. Mahler
Director – General WHO.

Something About Smallpox:
Smallpox is an acute infectious disease characterized by severe fever, chills and headache and a peripheral rash which appears on the third day of the fever. The rash later becomes vesicular and ultimately leaves permanent pock marks.

The disease is caused by virus infection through human beings, directly or indirectly. The virus is air-borne and the infection spreads through inhalation of droplets or dust containing the virus. There is no natural immunity to smallpox. All races and all ages are susceptible if unprotected by previous inoculation.

The disease is seldom fatal. However, its complications of pock marks and blindness could be permanent.

Historical background of Immunization
It was in the year 570 A.D. that the Bishop of Avenches Switzerland, wrote a report about an epidemic in France and Italy. He made the first use of the word “variola” to describe the patients’ appearance as “spotted”. Then in 10th century a great Persian physician, Rhazes, discussed smallpox in his paper entitled “A Treatise on the Smallpox” and distinguished it from measles. However, hundreds of years passed before his work was read and later accepted by physicians in Europe.

The first battle against smallpox was initially spurred by a beautiful woman whose loveliness it had destroyed. The lovely woman was Lady Mary Wortley Montagus, wife of an 18th century English ambassador to Turkey. She barely survived the smallpox attack that struck at the age of 26 and marred her beauty. Later, living with her husband in Turkey, she noticed a method used there to prevent the disease – for which, then as now, no effective treatment has ever been found. On her return to England, she urged the adoption of this preventive method, called variolation.

This first preventive method of fighting the disease is of unknown origin. Variolation was employed in ancient India and under the Tcheo Dynasty of China when there were outbreaks of so-called “tai-tu” disease. The method involves taking material from the pox or pustule of a sick person and scratching it into the skin of people who are not yet ill. The recipients usually develop only a mild illness – but they can infect others and their illness is not mild. Provided a person survives this first crude technique of immunization, variolation will prevent him getting the disease in a more serous form. This method of protection was employed in Europe until early in the 19th century and in remote populations of Ethiopia and Afghanistan was, until recently, widely prevalent.

Thus smallpox was the first disease to be made preventable by a modern method of immunization.

Among those who took a particular interest in Lady Mary Wortley Montagus’ experiences in Turkey was a young English doctor named Edward Jenner. He also made the crucial observation that milkmaids did not seem to get the deadly smallpox if they had first caught the relatively harmless cowpox from their animals. Jenner dared to wonder: could it be that material from a cowpox pustule might somehow prevent smallpox? He tried the experiment in 1967, when he inoculated material from the pustule on the hand of a dairymaid into the hand of a little boy of eight. About seven weeks, he inoculated the boy with matter from a smallpox pustule and, as he had expected, the boy did not contract the disease. He called the first material variola vaccinia in other words, the smallpox of cow.