30th Anniversary Malaysia-China Diplomatic Relationship Stamp

The 30 sen stamp features illustrations of two ships from Malaya and China. These ships symbolise the start of the relationship between Malacca and China 600 years ago. Diplomatic relationship were built based on the official visit of the famed Admiral Cheng Ho from China to Malacca in 1405. This sparked the growth of trade relations between the two countries and Malaya became the port of choice for many tradesmen from China. The ship gracing the Malaysian stamp is called 'Lanchara' and it was not only a trade ship but could turn into a battleship.

Two hands locked in a firm handshake is the perfect symbol of the close relationship between Malaysia and China. As partners in trade, tourism and technology, Malaysia and China have helped each other develop these sectors extensively. The Chinese and Malaysian currencies form the backdrop of the Malaysian stamp, alluding to the importance of trade between the two nations. A unique feature of this stamp is the inclusion of both the Malaysian and Chinese flags, a feature that is rarely used in stamps. Both the stamps are adorned with a drawing of trade ship, symbolising the start of relations between Malaysia and China.

The miniture sheet is very unique because it features two mosques that can be found in Malaysia and China. The Niujie Mosque is the oldest and biggest mosque in Beijing, China and it has been in existence for over 1000 years. Its beautiful architecture is a striking combination of Chinese design and Islamic features and was masterminded by an Arab scholar during the Liao Dynasty.

Tha Kampung Hulu Mosque from Malaysia can be found in the state of Malacca. It was built in 1728 during the Dutch occupation and was built to replace the first mosque of the city. Its architecture appears typically Chinese, inspired by the pagodas of China.

Technical Details

Date of Issue : 31-May-2004

Stamp Value : 30 Sen (2 Designs); RM1.00 (2 Designs)

Perforation : 14

Sheet Content : 20 Stamps

Stamp Size : 30mm X 40mm

Miniature Sheet Denomination : RM2.00

Miniature Sheet Size : 100mm X 70mm

Stamp Size in Miniature Sheet : 60mm X 40mm

Paper : Watermarked, Phospor Coated

Printing Process : Lithography

Stamp Designer : Hazel Design

Printer : Percetakan Keselamatan Nasional Sdn. Bhd.

First Day Cover Value : 30 Sen

Presentation Pack Value : RM 4.20

Folder Value : RM 5.00

National Service Programme Stamp

Initiated by the government, National Service Programme (NSP) was conceived out of a desire to inculcate the spirit of patriotism in the hearts and minds of Malaysian youths of eighteen (18) years of age. A three-month stint-based program, NSP is also to tap and instill the 'Malaysia Boleh' culture in the youths regardless of their racial and religious backgrounds, besides shaping them into disciplined, independent and resilient citizens capable of advancing the nation ahead. The youth of the country constitutes 60% of the population hence their talents and energies are integral elements of national development and progress. NSP is for those born in 1986. Ultimately, the program is envisioned to produce true patriots who would inherit the responsibility of integrating the various races together and nation-building, which are the goals of Vision 2020.

Launched by the Prime Minister on 22 February 2004, National Service Programme is :

• based on the principles of the 'Rukun Negara'.




• not a military-style conscription and has its own uniform, anthem and logo.




• for both gender.




• focused on a multi-disciplinary co-curiculum.

The objectives are to :

• Develop a young generation who are patriotic and with love for their country.




• Enhance unity among the multi-racial communities in the country.




• Instill a spirit of caring and volunteerism among society.




• Produce an active, intelligent and confident generation.




• Develop positive characteristics among the younger generation through good values.

The NSP programmed will be conducted over a three-month period during which the participants will go through four modules as follows -

Physical Module

• Basic marching.




• Hand-to-hand combat.




• Abseiling / flying fox and low roping exercises.




• Rafting / Canoeing.




• Creative sports.




• Survival skills.




• First aid lessons.

Nationality Module

• Nation's history, sovereignty and dignity.




• Malaysia and international affairs.




• Defence and national security.




• Citizens' responsibility to the nation.

Character-Building Module

• Instillation of good values.




• Self-confidence, leadership, self-evaluation.

Community Service Module

• Building and restoring public amenities.




• Environmental restoration and protection.




• "Gotong-royong" and public service acts.




• Charitable activities.

Technical Details

Date of Issue : 22-May-2004

Stamp Value : 30 Sen; 50 Sen; RM1.00

Stamp Size : 30mm X 40mm

Perforation : 14

Sheet Content : 20 Stamps

Miniature Sheet Value : RM2.00

Miniature Sheet Size : 70mm X 100mm

Stamp Size in Miniature Sheet : 30mm X 40mm

Paper : Watermarked, Phospor Coated

Printing Process : Lithography

Printer : Secura Security Printing Sdn. Bhd. (Stamps)

Printer : Percetakan Keselamatan Nasional Sdn. Bhd. (M/S)

Designer : Creative & Communications House Sdn. Bhd.

First Day Cover Value : 30 Sen