Thursday, December 22, 2005

Malaysia's Five Islands and Reefs in the South China Sea Stamp

South China Seas Islands StampsThere are 599 islands, reefs and rock islands in Malaysia's waters. Of these islands, 244 of them are located in the South China Sea. Five of these islands and reefs are Swallow Island, Investigator Reef, Erica Reef, Mariveles Reef and Ardasier Reef. Important as there are in terms of strategic and national security, the islands and reefs are also rich with diverse marine ecosystem.

Swallow Island
Swallow Island, with an area of 10.1 square km, is located at 7° 22.50' North and 113° 50.60' East and 172 nautical miles from Labuan. It is well known as a paradise for divers, for the waters South China Seas Islands Miniature Sheetaround the island is rich with diverse species of fish, corals, turtles, giant clams, sea grass and marine mammals. The island got its name from the fact that it is the favorite resting place for various marine swallows such as the Brown Noddy, Sooty Tern, Brown Booby, Mongolian Plover and many others. Many marine life such as Sea Star (Echinaster callosus) are found here. In 2004, Marine Research Station of Pulau Layang-Layang (MARSAL) was built to provide facilities for researchers.

Investigator Reef

South China Seas Islands First Day CoverInvestigator Reef is the biggest coral reef covering an area of 202.9 square km and is located at 8° 7.75' North and 114° 42.55' East. This reef has a diverse marine eco-system. Bivavle (Chlamys rastellum), 25 families and 79 species of coral fish was recorded by researchers from the local university in Malaysia. A weather buoy was also installed in 2003 by the Malaysian Meteorological Services, Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation to collect weather South China Seas Islands First Day Coverdata in South China Sea.

Erica Reef

Erica Reef has an area of 4.2 square km and is located at 8° 6.55' North and 114° 7.90' East. This reef has a varied marine eco-system comprising corals, coral fish, Spinner Dolphins and Bottlenose Dolphins among others. One of the unique marine life found here is Nudibranch (Chromodoris magnifica).

Mariveles Reef

South China Seas Islands Presentation PackMariveles Reef has an area of 21.9 square km and is located at 7° 58.0' North and 113° 55.0' East. This reef has a diverse marine eco-system that consists of coral reefs and coral fish and others. An example of the unique marine species that can be found here is Sea Cucumber (Synapta meida).

Ardasier Reef

Ardasier Reef has an area of 11.7 square km and is located at 7° 36.40' North and 113° 55.8' East. This reef has a varied marine eco-system with coral reefs, coral fish and the likes. Marine life such as Gastropod (Astraea rhodostoma) are abundant in this reef.




South China Seas Islands Stamps SheetTechnical Details

Date of Issue : 22-Dec-2005

Stamp Value : 30 Sen ( 2 Designs; 50 Sen ( 2 Designs)

Stamp Size : 40 mm X 30 mm

Perforation : 14

Sheet Content : 20 Stamps

Miniature Sheet Value : RM 2.00

Miniature Sheet Size : 100 mm X 70 mm

Stamp Size in Miniature Sheet : 40 mm X 30 mm

Paper : SPM Watermarked, Phosphor Coated

South China Seas Islands FolderPrinting Process : Lithography

Printer : Percetakan Keselamatan Nasional Sdn. Bhd

Stamp Designer : Reign Associates Sdn. Bhd

First Day Cover Value : 30 Sen

Presentation Pack Value : RM 4.50

Folder Value : RM 5.00


Monday, December 12, 2005

11th ASEAN Summit Stamp

11th ASEAN Summit StampsMalaysia is host to the 11th ASEAN Summit and Related Summits from 12 to 14 December 2005. As the Chair of the 39th ASEAN Standing Committee, it is Malaysia's turn to host the annual Summit. The Kuala Lumpur Convention Center has been selected to be the venue of the Summits. The event comprises eight summits altogether held back-to-back, which are, the 11th ASEAN Summit, the 9th ASEAN Plus Three Summit, the 9th ASEAN-China Summit, the 9th ASEAN-Japan Summit, the 9th ASEAN-Republic of Korea Summit, the 4th ASEAN-India Summit, the Inaugural ASEAN-Russia Summit and the First East Asia Summit.

The theme of this year's Summit is "One Vision, One Identity, One Community". It reflects ASEAN's vision of maintaining the principles outlined in the 1967 Bangkok Declaration and 11th ASEAN Summit First Day Coverachieving the goals set out in the 2003 Bali Concord II of establishing as ASEAN Community comprising the three pillars, ASEAN Security Community, ASEAN Economic Community and ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community. We also aspire an ASEAN Community of one identity based on common principles and shared values. The theme is also in line with Malaysia's aim, as Chairman of the 39th ASEAN Standing Committee, to create a people-oriented environment for ASEAN by increasing public awareness of ASEAN.

The Petronas Twin Towers were chosen as the Logo as it is believed that the twin structure symbolizes the spirit of ASEAN where its ten number countries move together in tandem towards greater development while working to bridge the development gaps within ASEAN and between ASEAN and its Dialogue Partners. The ASEAN logo in the middle of the apex of the towers symbolizes ASEAN as a regional body, ASEAN integration and ASEAN being in the driver's seat in relations with the Dialogue Partners.

11 th ASEAN Summit Stamps SheetThe Summits allow Leaders of 17 ASEAN Member Countries and Dialogue Partners the opportunity to come together to exchange views on ways to enhance and advance the existing cooperation. The First East Asia Summit is an avenue for ASEAN to engage with countries from the world at large. The Summits also allow Malaysia to introduce some new initiatives during our Chairmanship, with the main one being creating greater public awareness of ASEAN among the peoples of ASEAN through people-oriented activities.



11th ASEAN Summit FolderTechnical Details

Date of Issue : 12-Dec-2005

Stamp Value : 30 Sen; 50 Sen; RM1

Stamp Size : 40mm x 30mm

Sheet Content : 20 Stamps

Miniature Sheet Size : 100 mm X 70 mm

Stamp Size in Miniature Sheet : 40 mm X 30 mm

Perforation : 14

Paper : Watermarked SPM, Phosphor Coated

Printing Process : Lithography

Printer : Percetakan Keselamatan Nasional Sdn. Bhd.

Designer : Reign Associates Sdn. Bhd.

First Day Cover Value : 30 Sen

Folder Value : RM 5.00


Friday, December 2, 2005

Malaysia Batik - Crafted For The World Stamp

Malaysia Batik StampBatik is a resist technique of patterning on cloth which uses wax as it's dye resist. The word batik is an Indonesian term derived from the word 'Ambatik'. It is a combination of 'hamba' (servant) and 'titik' (dots), which literally translates as the batik maker being a 'servant of dots'. Traditionally, batik producers used wooden or metal blocks to stamp designs on to the surface of the cloth. Batik produced in this Malaysia Batik Miniature Sheetmanner is known as 'Batik Cap'. The current trend however, favors the use of an implement called the 'Canting' which enables the maker to draw designs rather freely. This handcrafted Malaysian batik has been well received. It has its own unique identity in the world of batik. Handcrafted Malaysian batik is exclusively produced. It is usually contemporary and modern in concept. The designs created are inspired by various elements such as traditional wood carving motifs, Sarawak ikat 'Pua' design, local floral and fauna in stylized forms rendered in a spectrum of colors. Malaysia batik is now available on a variety of textiles. Malaysia batik has impacted and commands a bigger presence in the international fashion scene.

Binaan Asasi / Foundation Building

The basis of this creation is derived from the most organic form, the roots. Symbolically the root depicts firm symbiotic relationship motif between trees with soil and rocks. The green background in this design monopolizes the whole space whilst the leaves and trees portray the aspiration of Malaysian Batik to penetrate the global market. This design combines practical values and the aesthetics of Malaysian batik with the intention to promote the rich, gentle yet Malaysia Batik First Day Coveruniversal Malaysian Cultural values. All selected elements put together in this design are combined to present batik as a world class creation.

Persona Sutera / Silk Personna

Batik creation should use contemporary materials. This thought triggers the concept of this design. Freehand strokes or 'Canting' Malaysia Batik First Day Covertechnique are still widely used in order to get a truly exclusive impact. Malaysian flowers such as orchids and ferns have inspired this design. The use of bright colors enliven as well as increase the exclusivity of this design. The silk fabric used adds to the beauty of the batik and has drawn international attention to Malaysia batik.

Malaysia Bersatu / United Malaysia

The design for this stamp which is based on the colors of the national flag, focuses on the effects of wax crackles. Crackles or 'retak seribu' happens as an incidental outcome of dye seepage through the resist wax during the multiple boiling in the dying process. This crackling visual textures are then combined together in a series of overlapping colors which are rendered using the 'dry-brushing' technique. The overall creation aim to reflect a blend of influences inspired from the design elements in the textiles Malaysia Batik Presentation Packoriginating from the Malay Archipelago, China and India. They are essentially a composite heritage from the various ethnic components in Malaysia.

Penyatuan / Convergence

'Pucuk Rebung' and 'Bunga Tanjung' are two of the more commonly used motifs in traditional Malay decorative designs especially in woven fabrics. These two are combined and adapted in a stylized geometric floral arrangement in order to create contemporary design without jeopardizing their originality. The wax crackles and multiple layering techniques are again the emphasis in the design execution. Vibrant colors are preferred to create a strong visual impact for a lasting impression.


Malaysia Batik Stamp SheetTechnical Details

Date of Issue : 2-Dec-2005

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

Stamp Size : 30 mm x 40 mm

Sheet Content : 20 Stamps

Malaysia Batik FolderMiniature Sheet Value : RM 2.00

Miniature Sheet Size : 30 mm x 40 mm

Stamp Size in Miniature Sheet : 100 mm x 70 mm

Perforation : 14

Paper : SPM Watermarked, Phosphor Coated

Printing Process : Lithography

Printer : Percetakan Keselamatan Nasional Sdn. Bhd

Stamp Designer : Gempita Maju Sdn Bhd

Batik Motifs Designers : Winners of Piala Seri Endon 2003 & 2004

First Day Cover Value : 30 Sen

Presentation Pack Value : RM 4.00

Folder Value : RM 5.00

Monday, October 10, 2005

Traditional Kites Stamp

Traditional Kites StampsIn Malaysia "layang-layang" is the generic term for kites in the Western and Southern regions of Peninsular Malaysia such as Selangor, Melaka and Johor. In general, kites from these states are divided into three categories namely the fighting Traditional Kites Miniature Sheetkite, the baby kite and the decorative kite. The kites from the West Coast and Southern Peninsular are smaller in size. Besides that, it also lacks decorative motifs.

Layang-layang is also known as 'wau' in the East Coast and Northern States of Peninsular Malaysia like Kelantan, Terengganu, Kedah and Perlis. The word 'wau' originated from the sound derived from the 'hummer' of the kite. When in flight, the hummer will form sounds of wau, wau, wau in rhythmic pattern. Wau Bulan, Wau Merak, Wau Kucing and Wau Jala Budi are the most popular traditional wau.

Wau Jala Budi

The name Wau Jala Budi is derived from a leaf found in Kedah called the 'budi' leaf. The tail of the wau is similar to the 'budi' leaf and the word 'jala' (net) refers to the structure of the tail of the Wau Jala Budi. However, the basic shape and design is similar to the other wau. When flown, the kite produces a medium buzzing drone emitted from the 'hummer' located at the head of the kite. The appearance of Wau Jala Budi is also similar to "Chula Kite" originated from Thailand.

Traditional Kites First Day CoverWau Bulan

Among the traditional kites, Wau Bulan is the most popular and most attractive in appearance. It is called Wau Bulan because of its crescent shape and tailpiece. According to legend, Wau Bulan originated from the Sri Wijaya Empire and symbolizes the reunification of the empire by Dewa Muda. Wau Bulan was used by Dewa Muda as a guide to determine the designated area to be Traditional Kites First Day Coverconquered. The Wau Bulan today has since undergone much modifications and changes. The Wau Bulan was more widely known in Kelantan.

Wau Kucing

The design of Wau Kucing resembles the cat, and is most apparent when seen from the back, beginning with the head, body and tail. The specialty of Wau Kucing is its 'hummer' releasing a screeching, high-pitched sound, similar to the sound made by cats. The 'hummer' is also used to frighten away evil spirits and to forecast the following day's weather. The floral and plant motifs of the 'sobek' carvings on Wau Kucing are decorated in the same way as the Wau Bulan.

Traditional Kites Presentation PackWau Merak

Wau Merak is also known as Layang-layang Kipas (Fan Kite), believed to have originated from Sulawesi, Indonesia and is flown mainly by the Bugis community. The design assimilates the characteristics of the peacock and is not restricted by any particular size. The specialty of the Wau Merak is its 'hummer'. The 'hummer' of the Wau Merak is capable of producing seven different melodies or sound. The Wau Merak originally was played at night because of the beauty of the melodies or sound release. The decorative elements on the body of Wau Merak are mostly of plant origin, namely creepers such as pepper and betel nut.




Traditional Kites Stamps SheetTechnical Details

Date of Issue : 10-Oct-2005

Stamp Value : 30 Sen; 50 Sen; RM1

Stamp Size : 40 mm X 30 mm

Miniature Sheet Value : RM 2.00

Miniature Sheet Size : 100 mm X 70 mm

Stamp Size in Miniature Sheet : 40 mm X 30 mm

Perforation : 14

Sheet Content : 20 Stamps

Paper : SPM Watermarked, Phosphor Coated

Traditional Kites FolderPrinting Process : Lithography

Printer : Percetakan Keselamatan Nasional Sdn. Bhd

Stamp Designer : Reign Associates Sdn. Bhd

First Day Cover Value : 30 Sen

Presentation Pack Value : RM 4.00

Folder Value : RM 5.00

Wednesday, September 28, 2005

Rare Reptiles Of Malaysia Stamp

Rare Reptiles StampsToday, there are hundreds of species of reptiles in Malaysia. The major groups being crocodiles, turtles, snakes, lizards and frogs. All reptiles are cold-blooded, which is why they warm themselves in the sun, and have bodies covered in dry, horny scales. Some reptiles lay eggs; others give birth to live young.

All reptiles are vertebrates, animal with backbones. They are low to the ground, and all except snakes and a few lizards have four legs.

The size of reptiles can range from the very tiniest of frogs that are smaller than a person's Rare Reptiles Miniature Sheetthumbnail to crocodiles that are several meters long. An astonishing fact of these species is their ability to glide from tree to tree or from a tree to the forest floor.

The Harlequin Monitor (Varanus dumerilii) is a fairly large monitor that can demonstrate an incredible shyness when observed. The juvenile Harlequin Monitor tends to be more colorful than the adult. This is due to its bold orange-colored head, which however disappears with growth. Its diet includes insects such as termites, ants, cockroaches and so on. This lizard inhibits Southern West Malaysia, Sumatra and Borneo.

The rare Rough-necked Monitor (Varanus rudicollis) is characterized by its greatly enlarged, strongly kneeled neck scales that are arranged in 10-12 longitunal series. It is dark with crossbands and reddish areas on the side of the neck. Reaching 120 cm in total, this arboreal monitor inhibits Southern West Malaysia and Borneo.

The Great Anghehead Lizard (Gonocephalus grandis) is amazing to observe in the wild because of its incredible camouflage when blending into the environment. A crest runs down the length of the male lizard's body, and some have spikes over the large dewlaps. This lizard is usually blue in color, but can vary in different situations. This species occurs in the far south of Thailand, Malaysia, Sumatra and in Borneo.

Rare Reptiles First Day CoverEstuarine crocodile (Crocodylus porosus), the largest of all the crocodile species, can be found in such extensive places that range from Eastern India, Southern China through Malaysia and the Philippines to Northern Australia and the Pacific Islands. This crocodile usually inhibits river estuaries and coastal regions including mangroves and remote beaches. It feeds on various vertebrates including fish, water birds and various mammals.
Rare Reptiles First Day Cover
The Five-banded Gliding Lizard (Draco quinquefasciatus) is a medium-sized lizard that inhibits lowland primary rainforest, often close to swamps or other water bodies. This species is easily identified by the five dark bands across the live green dorsum and patagium. It often stays at the base of tree trunks to feed on ants, termites and other small insects. This species ranges from Southern Thailand and Peninsular Malaysia, to Sumatra and Borneo.



Rare Reptiles Stamps SheetTechnical Details

Date of Issue : 28-Sep-2005

Stamp Value : 30 Sen ( 2 Designs); 50 Sen; RM1

Stamp Size : 40 mm X 30 mm

Miniature Sheet Denomination : RM2.00

Miniature Sheet Size : 70mm X 100mm

Stamp Size in Miniature Sheet : 40mm X 50mm

Perforation : 14

Sheet Content : 20 Stamps

Paper : SPM Watermarked, Phosphor Coated

Printing Process : Lithography

Printer : Percetakan Keselamatan Nasional Sdn. Bhd

Stamp Designer : Reign Associates Sdn. Bhd

First Day Cover Value : 30 Sen

Folder Value : RM 5.00

Tuesday, August 30, 2005

100th Anniversary of Malay College, Kuala Kangsar Stamp

100 Years of MCKK StampsThe Malay College Kuala Kangsar (MCKK) is the premier and first fully-residential school in Malaysia. Established on 2nd January 1905, it was originally known as the Malay Residential School of Kuala Kangsar. It was an all Malay boys' school located in the Royal Town of Kuala Kangsar, Perak.

The school was the brainchild of Mr. R J Wilkinson, then Inspector of Schools for the Federated Malay States. In a letter to the Resident-General dated 24th February 1904, he wrote about "establishing at a suitable locality in the F.M.S., a special residential school for the education of Malays of good family and for the training of Malay boys for admission to certain branches of Government service".

100 Years of MCKK Miniature SheetIts formation was enthusiastically supported by the then Rulers of the Federated Malay States namely Sultan Idris Murshidul 'Adzam Shah of Perak, Sultan Alaiddin Sulaiman Shah of Selangor, Yam Tuan Tuanku Muhamad Shah of Negeri Sembilan and Sultan Ahmad Al-Mu'adzam Shah of Pahang.

Since its inception, more than 5,000 boys (and 2 girls) have had the privilege to enter the gates of The MCKK. Though it was initially founded to educate the Malay elites, it changed dramatically as a result of rising Malay nationalism since 1947. Today, selected Malay boys from all walks of life and aged from 12 to 17 from all over Malaysia are educated in The MCKK.

The MCKK has been the school for many prominent Malaysian such as Kings, Sultans, Prime Ministers, Ministers as well as senior officials in the Government and leading figures in the private sector. The MCKK boys would undoubtedly fill many of the pages of Who Is Who in Malaysia.

MCKK celebrated its Centennial Anniversary on 26th March 2005. Attended by royalties, dignitaries, Old Boys and townspeople, The Malay College Kuala Kangsar or fondly referred to as the Eton of the East was also declared a National Heritage by His Majesty the Yang di-Pertuan Agong. His Majesty re-affirmed that the Malay Rulers "...shall remain as Royal Patrons of The Malay College Kuala Kangsar for as long as the sun, the moon and the stars move across the Heavens."

The most recognizable, oldest and famous landmark of MCKK is none other than the imposing 2 storey building with pseudo Greco-Roman architecture fronted by a vast playing field. It is known as the Big School. The official opening of the building took place on Saturday 11th December 1909 and officiated by Sultan Idris Murshidul 'Adzam Shah, the Sultan of Perak. In 1955, the West and East Wings were added and together they make up what is now called the Big School. The Big School is currently the main hostel for the seniors. The Big School remains as a majestic edifice of The Malay College.

100 Years of MCKK First Day CoverThe Prep School (Preparatory School), built in 1912, is smaller but with equally prominent features. Built in pseudo Greco-Roman architecture too, this 2 storey "L" shaped building houses the first year students. Here, students are taught and prepared for their future life in MCKK. The Prep School is the only hostel located within the present Administrative Block. The hostel has its own dining hall, common room and playing fields.
100 Years of MCKK First Day Cover
A prominent feature of the Big School is the Big Tree. Located in front of the East Wing, it was said to be as old as the school itself. It is of the Samanea saman species, and commonly known as the rain tree, coco tamarind, acacia preta, French tamarind, saman, monkey pod or 'pokok pukul lima". It came from tropical America, and has a large dome-shaped canopy. It can grow up to 180 feet tall with a crown up to 240 feet across. As the leaves age, the color changes from pale green to bright yellow and then to a golden color before shedding. The flowers are small pinkish green.

To the boys of MCKK, Big Tree is more than just a tree. It is a monument that every living Old Boy can easily relate to. Throughout its existence, it has been a landmark for many a congregation, and serves as both a meeting and parting point. Stories pertaining to Big Tree, true or mythical, are plentiful.



100 Years of MCKK Stamps SheetTechnical Details

Date of Issue : 30-Aug-2005

Stamp Value : 30 Sen; 50 Sen ( 2 Designs )

Stamp Size : 40 mm X 30 mm

Miniature Sheet Value :50 Sen ( 4 Designs )

Miniature Sheet Size : 100 mm X 70 mm

Stamp Size in Miniature Sheet : 22 mm X 51 mm

Perforation : 14

Sheet Content : 20 Stamps

Paper : SPM Watermarked, Phosphor Coated

100 Years of MCKK FolderPrinting Process : Lithography

Printer : Percetakan Keselamatan Nasional Sdn. Bhd

Stamp Designer : Reign Associates Sdn. Bhd

First Day Cover Value : 30 Sen

Folder Value : RM 5.00

Tuesday, August 9, 2005

Traditional Water Transport Stamp

Traditional Water Transport StampsTraditional Water Transport

The first form of water transportation is the log. The rider sites on it with his legs used as oars. The rider also has the option of laying facedown Traditional Water Transport Miniature Sheetwith both his arms and legs used as oars. As time progressed, people advanced and had learnt to modify their oars by tying three or four pieces of wood together using fiber rope, rattan or ferns. The tied wood pieces form a flooring that floats on the water, and in turn becomes a RAKIT (raft). More modern water transportation such as carving out the center of a log into a SAMPAN is witnessed later on. The sampan is built in such a way that its entire frame consists of the ribs, the bow and the keel.

'Perahu Kotak' (Box Boat)

The box boat is built using pieces of planks. Its structure is simple as its frame is built without a bow, keel and 'papan lepang' and short 'rangka kun'. It is used by village folks as a vehicle for transportation in shallow, coastal waters of the river and to carry personal items.

Sampan

The entire sampan is made from pieces of plank, Traditional Water Transport First Day Coverand exists in various sizes. A small sampan of approximately 2 to 3 meters long can accommodate 2 to 4 people. Most sampans are used on rivers as a form of transport. The sampan's belly is wide and its bow slopes steeply.

'Rakit Buluh' (Bamboo Raft)

Bamboo rafts are the most common water transportation being used. They range from simple 1-man rafts to larger ones that serve different Traditional Water Transport First Day Coverpurposes. The larger rafts are made from 8-10 culms of bamboo measuring approximately 3 meters in length. Even larger ones are available too - these are 2-layered rafts amounting to 6-12 meters in length. These massive rafts are capable of transporting up to 6 persons and 450 kg of jungle produce. Some of these huge rafts may even contain a built-in temporary shelter, enabling passengers to get a good rest during long and taxing journeys.

Traditional Water Transport Presentation Pack'Perahu Batang' (Long Boat)

The long boat is fashioned out of a log that is split lengthwise into two, and then carved into the shape of a boat. The inside surface is gouged out from the bow to the keel to make a sufficiently large hole to accommodate up to four or five boatmen. The long boat is used by riverside dwellers as a means of transportation to carry passengers and daily necessities.



Traditional Water Transport Stamps SheetTechnical Details

Date of Issue : 9-Aug-2005

Stamp Value : 30 Sen; 50 Sen; RM 1.00

Stamp Size : 40mm X 30mm

Sheet Content : 20 Stamps

Miniature Sheet Denomination : RM2.00

Miniature Sheet Size : 100mm X 70mm

Stamp Size in Miniature Sheet : 40mm X 50mm

Perforation : 14

Paper : SPM Watermarked, Phosphor Coated

Traditional Water Transport FolderPrinting Process : Lithography

Printer : Percetakan Keselamatan Nasional Sdn. Bhd.

Designer : Reign Associates Sdn. Bhd.

First Day Cover Value : 30 sen

Presentation Pack Value : RM 3.50

Miniature Sheet Value : RM 2.00

Folder Value : RM 5.00


Wednesday, July 27, 2005

Protected Mammals Series III Stamp

Protected Mammals StampsMalaysia's civets, otters, weasels, martens and porcupines may not be as well-known as other Malaysian mammals such as the elephant, tiger or tapir with which they share our forests. They are, nonetheless, interesting and often unusual animals, ranging from treetop to aquatic acrobats, from stealthy nocturnal hunters to peaceful vegetarians.

The Yellow-Throated Marten (Martes flavigula) ranks among Malaysia's most elegant and graceful mammals. The Malaysian variant has a brown belly and flanks, while the chest and throat are a striking creamy-white to canary Protected Mammals Miniature Sheetyellow. Its diet includes insects, birds (and their eggs), lizards and amphibians.

The Large Spotted Civet (Viverra megaspila, Blyth) is believed to forage entirely on the ground as it has never been observed on trees. It eats small mammals, eggs and some vegetation. It is a solitary animal and tends to be aggressive towards members of its own species. Large Spotted Civets are found in lowland forests throughout Malaysia and are best spotted at night as they spend the day sleeping in thick vegetation.

The Malay Weasel (Mustela nudipes) is known locally as 'pulasan tanah'. This species can be found in both Peninsular Malaysia and Borneo, although it is never present in large numbers. Although small physically, it is, like most weasels, a fearless predator which tackles birds, mice and frogs. It gives birth to 1-4 young ones.

Protected Mammals First Day CoverMalaysia's freshwater and coastal areas, especially mangroves and peat swamp forests, are home to the Hairy-Nosed Otter (Lutra sumatrana, Gray). It feeds on crustaceans and fish, being an excellent swimmer with fully webbed feet. It is rarely encountered, but has been recorded in Penang's waters; there may also be a population in Kuala Gula, Perak. It has been observed that the male likes to take part in the rearing of the young.

Protected Mammals First Day CoverThe Long-Tailed Porcupine (Trichys lipura) is the smallest of the four Malaysian porcupine species and can be mistaken at a glance for an oversized rat - until one notices the large tuft of stiff hairs at the end of its long tail. The Large Porcupine (Hystrix brachyura) on the other hand is a large species, growing up to 7 kg in weight. Porcupines are largely nocturnal animals and are peaceful unless provoked by a predator into using their sharp quills in self-defense. Both of these porcupines can be found throughout Peninsular Malaysia, Sabah and Sarawak.

Protected Mammals Presentation PackWhile some of these animals, such as the large Spotted Civet, may still be relatively common, few are privileged enough to see others, like the Hairy-Nosed Otter or Yellow-Throated Marten, in the wild. These mammal species are all protected by law, in order to conserve a truly worthwhile part of Malaysia's natural heritage. Long may they endure.



Protected Mammals Stamps SheetTechnical Details

Date of Issue : 27-Jul-2005

Stamp Value : 30 Sen (2 designs); 50 Sen; RM 1.00

Stamp Size : 30mm x 40mm

Sheet Content : 20 Stamps

Miniature Sheet Denomination : RM2.00

Miniature Sheet Size : 100mm X 70mm

Stamp Size in Miniature Sheet : 30mm X 40mm

Perforation : 14

Paper : SPM Watermarked, Phosphor Coated

Protected Mammals FolderPrinting Process : Lithography

Printer : Percetakan Keselamatan Nasional Sdn. Bhd.

Designer : Reign Associates Sdn. Bhd.

First Day Cover Value : 30 sen

Presentation Pack Value : RM 4.00

Folder Value : RM 5.00


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