Monday, December 31, 2007

National Planetarium Kuala Lumpur


Situated at the hill of Kuala Lumpur Lake Garden, surrounding by National Mosque, National Museum and Bird Park, National Planetarium is the place where the journey to space begin. Combination of the Islamic architecture and astronomy, makes the National Planetarium resembles a mosque, but combined with a futuristic look.


Sitting majestically on a hilltop in the city's Lake Gardens, the National Planetarium is a beautiful blue-domed structure.


Interested in space science? This is the place to go! Many activities have been lined up for visitors, as the planetarium is a symbol of Malaysians' march towards becoming a progressive society.


It was opened on Feb 7, 1994, and containsa Space Theatre, Space Science Exhibit, Resource Centre, Viewing Gallery and Observatory Park.
The observatory is equipped with a 35.5cm (14in) telescope. As for the Space Theatre, it screens a Space Science and Sky shows daily.

About Selangor

Selangor is centrally located on the west coast of Peninsular Malaysia and is one of the most prosperous and developed states in the country. Most tourists to Malaysia will arrive in Selangor at the new K L International Airport (KLIA) at Sepang designed as an 'airport within a forest'. Kuala Lumpur was the capital of Selangor until it was made the federal capital in 1974.

The state's appeal lies in its wide range of attractions: natural, man-made, historical and cultural. Most of these attractions are within close proximity to KL and can be covered within a few days.ShahAlam,a well-planned city and the capital of Selangor, is home to the country's first agro-forestry park at Bukit Cahaya. The Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz Shah Mosque in the heart of Shah Alam is an architectural masterpiece.

The Kuala Selangor Nature Park, a sanctuary for a myriad of migratory birds is the perfect place for bird-watching and outdoor activities like camping and jungle trekking. A few kilometres away at Kampung Kuantan one can watch the spectacular 'light' show of thousands of fireflies in a mangrove swamp at dusk. Closer to KL, Selangor's premier theme park, the Sunway Lagoon, offers worldclass recreational facilities for hours of family fun and excitement. The impressive Mines Resort City, once the location of the world's largest open-cast tin mine is another m a j or a tt r act ion providing a comprehensive range of facilities for recreation, entertainment, shopping and business, The Batu Caves, a well known Hindu shrine located in a huge limestone outcrop outside KL, attracts a daily stream of visitors as well as thousands of devotees during the annual Thaipusam festival. The Forest Research Institute of Malaysia in Kepong provides the uninitiated an educational experience and a breathtaking view of a typical Malaysian forest from its canopy walkway amid the tree

Saturday, December 29, 2007

Musical Instruments of Malaysia

This is a stamp with a traditional musical instrument photo printed as a background on it. This kind of musical instrument can be found at our Museum and some also can found at the shop that selling traditional equipment.

15 cents stamp-Sompoton
Sompoton is perhaps one of the better known instruments of Sabah. Traditionally from Kampung Tikolod, Tambunan, it is now prevalent among the Kadazandusun and Murut people. The Sompoton is constructed from a dried gourd and eight bamboo pipes arranged in a double-layered raft. A small lamella of polod palm (like a tiny bungkau or jaw's harp) is inserted in the side of each sounding pipe near its based. The pipes are fitted into a hole on one side of the gourd and sealed with bees wax.The lamellae lie inside the gourd and provide the sound of the completed instrument. The pipes are bound with thin strands of rattan. By blowing or sucking gourd's mouth, the player can produce a soft sweet harmonious sound. It can be played as a solo instrument or in groups to accompany dancing.

20cents stamp-Sape
The most typical of Sarawak musical instruments, the sape, pronounced "sa-peh", is a traditional lute of the Orang Ulu community or "upriver people" of central Borneo. It is traditionally used by the Kenyahs, Kayans and Kelabit tribes. Carved from a bole of white wood which repels insects, the sape is a masterpiece of woodcarving. The carver, usually a musician, hollows out the body of the sape with similar tools used in boat-building to a length of about over a metre, and approximately 40cm wide. Initially, the guitar-like instrument measured less than a metre, and had only two rattan strings and three frets. Today, however, it is common to find sapes with three, four or even five strings. The strings - slender wires used in fishing rods - are held by movable wood frets, and are tightened or loosened with wooden pegs. The sape was once played solely during healing ceremonies within the rumah panjang (longhouses), but gradually became a social instrument that is used as a form of entertainment. The colourful jungle motifs that adorn the body of the sape mark this change in purpose. The music of sape is thematic, more often than not inspired by dreams. There are specific compositions for specific ceremonies and situations (marriages, births, harvest times, rain etc) which often differ from one sub-ethnic group to another. The traditional pieces, which have many variations, are usually passed down through the generations. Typically, the sape is played while sitting cross-legged on the floor, and is used to accompany dances; one for the men's longhouse dance, the other for the women's. Examples include the Ngajat (warriors dance) and Datun Julud. When played for a dance, two sapes tuned to different registers (low and high) are usually used. And though the sape is a solo instrument, it is occasionally supported by other musical instruments such as the jatung ulang (wooden xylophone) and keluai (mouth organ).

50cents stamp-Serunai
The serunai is a reed wind instrument. The instrument is hand-carved, and is usually highly ornamented with intricate detailing and painting. Much like western reed instruments, the serunai is made in varying lengths which affect its register. In western musical terminology, these might be called "soprano," "tenor," or "alto." In Malay, the instrument is referred to as anak (i.e. small or child), or ibu (i.e. large or parent). The design of the serunai reed is similar to that used in the bassoon or English horn. The serunai is played using a technique known a "circle breathing" or "cycle breathing." In this technique air is drawn in through the nose as it is simultaneously blown through the instrument. The resulting sound is constant note or drone.

MAS Inaugural Flight to Los Angeles 31 July 1986


This is the stamp show the MAS Inaugural fflight to Los Angeles at 31 July 1986.

National Science Center



Malaysia has progressed steadily over the past year and in view of the nation's development policies, has to be prepared to cater for its future rapid growth. In line with this, a plan to set up the National Science Center was approved under the Sixth Malaysia Plan. The National Science Center aims to stimulate interest in science through providing interactive exhibits, publications and programs for school groups. It will most certainly provide an informal learning experience in Science and Technology for creative minds.
The four storey complex is capped by a geodesic dome constructed of green polycarbonate. It incorporates high-tech features including an Integrated Building Management System. The LANDSCAPE around the Center is being developed in stages. For a start, the visitor will be able to observe hydroponics farming, an herbal garden and a cascading pond. A mini playground allows children to have fun whilst learning simple science principles. The scientific journey in the Center begins with a walk through a tropical freshwater, overhead aquarium followed by the ENVIRONMENTAL ODYSSEY unraveling the threats faced by our tropical environment.


PATHWAYS TO SCIENCE and DISCOVERY allows visitors to understand the basic principles of science and the origin of discoveries. For the young minds, the CHILDREN'S EXPLORATION CENTRE is designed to capture the Childs imagination. Ascending to Level Two, the visitors sees Malaysia's technological advancement as portrayed through TECHNOMAL. Since machine plays an important part role in the life of the modern man. The THINKING MACHINES would most certainly stimulate the visitor's mind.
FUTURE WORLD gives the visitor an insight into the future. One's achievement can inspire another. This is what the HALL OF FAME hopes to achieve by displaying renowned scientists' achievements and contributions. Stop consuming and start inventing - Malaysia have started heading towards this direction. The INVENTORS' CORNER applauds such Malaysians.The National Science Center also has a MULTIMEDIA LIBRARY and AUDITORIUMS suitable for holding conferences. Guests or participants can dine at the MULTI-PURPOSE HALL while enjoying the panoramic view of Bukit Kiara. Visitors feeling tired of walking but yet to cover a lot more exhibits can take a break at the ATRIUM before proceeding. The CAFETERIA provides quality food and a place to rest. At the SCIENCE SHOP, the visitors can buy a gift to take home.

Friday, December 28, 2007

Birds Of Prey Series


Vultures, Ospreys, Eagles, Hawks, Kites, Harriers, Bazas and Falconets belong to a group of carnivorous birds known as raptors. Some of the distinctive identifying features of a raptor are a hooked beak, hooded eyes, a flattish head and terrifying speed. In general, the colors of birds of prey are subdued. Though lacking in brightly colored plumage, many raptors are extremely attractive.Captors are well represented in Malaysia by over 30 species. They are found in deep forests, in open country and along the seashores. They exist in small numbers which makes conservation of these birds vital.



  • 20 cents-Haliastur indus (Brahminy Kite/Lang Merah) This beautiful chestnut and white bird is mainly a coastal bird, usually nesting in mangrove swamps. It eats fish and insects and also scavenges at piers and jetties near fishing villages.

  • 30 cents-Spilornis cheela (Crested Serpent Eagle/Lang Berjambul) This is the most common raptor seen in Malaysian rainforests. It utters a shrill and far carrying call while flying high in the air. It has a short prominent crest of black and white feathers at the back of its head. It eats snakes, rodents and small birds.

  • 50 cents-Haliaeetus leucogaster (White-bellied Sea Eagle/Lang Laut) This grey and white bird is one of the largest local raptors. A familiar sight all around the coasts and on the off-shore islands it is most often seen soaring in circles at great heights or perched on fishing stakes at sea. Known among the local fishermen as lang siput due to its fondness for snail, its other food consist of fish, crab and sea snakes.

  • RM1-Spizaetus cirrhatus (Changable Hawk-Eagle/Lang Hindex) This often seen inland bird of prey has two distinct color phases. The whole plumage is dusky-brown in dark phase and lighter brown with variations in the lighter phase. It spends much of the day soaring high in the sky. It feeds on great variety of animals and birds.

Kingfisher


There are over 80 species of kingfishers (Order Coraciiformes Family Alcedinidae) in the world found mainly in tropics. There are colourful birds, with prominent long powerful bills and short tails.

These kingfishers occur in a range of habitats from open country to primary forests. Typically the kingfishers perch upright in an exposed position. Kingfishers which live near rivers and streams, are noted for catching fish and other aquatic creatures. However, the more land-living kingfishers rely on insects, and small reptiles for their food.
Most of the kingfishers nest in holes in banks near water. Some of them, however, use hollows in trees or termite nests. The eggs, in all of them, are white.There are fourteen species of kingfishers in Malaysia. Eleven of these species occur in Peninsular Malaysia, Sabah and Sarawak, while two are found only in Peninsular Malaysia and one in Sabah and Sarawak.

Thursday, December 27, 2007

Menara Kuala Lumpur


Standing atop Bukit Nanas, 94 meters above sea-level, at a majestic height of 421 metros, Menara Kuala Lumpur is the tallest telecommunication tower in Asia and third tallest in the world. Menara Kuala Lumpur Sdn. Bhd. (MKLSB) another privatization project by the Government of Malaysia has been assigned to plan, design, build, operate and manage Menara Kuala Lumpur. The tower consists of five basic sections, namely the foundation base, the touristy building, the tower shaft, the tower head and the antenna mast.However, patrons will have access to the touristy building, the observation platform and the revolving restaurant only. The tow level touristy building linked by a 146 meters pedestrian mall has a reflecting pool in the center. The main public area at the upper ground level comprises of nine shop lots, a fast-food restaurant, a theater, an amphitheater, a prayer room, public toilets and office space.The amphitheater will be able to accommodate 222 persons. The theater which has a seating capacity for 57 people will show documentaries for the patrons waiting to see the observation platform. Menara Kuala Lumpur will have a revolving restaurant located at 282 meters above ground floor with a full seating capacity of 250 diners. The restaurant takes approximately one hour to revolve the full 360 degrees.Menara Kuala Lumpur also provides an observation platform below the revolving restaurant which can accommodate 150 patrons. The platform, a public viewing deck 276 meters above sea level, provides an excellent view of the city and its surroundings and even up to the Straits of Malacca when the weather permits.High velocity elevators transport visitors, operations personnel and goods between the ground floor and various platforms on the Tower Head. The public are serviced by two passenger elevators with a capacity of 21 persons each. Each elevator travels at a speed of 6 meters per seconds and takes one minute to reach the observations platform. Tow other elevators are designed exclusively for access to, maintenance of, the telecommunication installations and equipment. The tower provides essential telecommunication, radio and broadcasting facilities for the city of Kuala Lumpur. Menara Kuala Lumpur is truly an outstanding landmark and ambassador for the city of Kuala Lumpur and nations.

Wednesday, December 26, 2007

United Nations Fiftieth Anniversary


The United Nations Charter, signed on 26 June 1945, came into force on 24 October 1945. On 13 April 1944, the United Nations General Assembly decided to establish a Preparatory Committee in New York and a UN50 Secretariat to work on the commemoration of the United Nations' 50th Anniversary throughout the world for the whole year of 1995. The year long program of events will culminate with a special commemorative meeting of the General Assembly, attended by world leaders, on 24th October 1995. It envisaged that at that meeting the Assembly will adopt a Declaration reaffirming the principles of the UN Charter and setting guidelines for the future work of the Organization.


When the Charter of the United Nations came into force on 24th October 1945, it heralded the birth of the United Nations as a universal international organization created to maintain world peace and security and to work for social progress. It successes in economic and social development, decolonization, human rights, disarmament and peace-keeping are highlights of the second half of this century. A forum for all nations, the UN represents the highest aspirations of the world's peoples for a world of free of war, poverty, repression and suffering.


To carry out its mandate, the UN must have basic resources. It not only requires the political and financial backing of Member of States, it also needs the support and understanding of its larger constituencies - the general public, non-governmental organizations and business community, in particular. The Fiftieth Anniversary commemoration aims to deepen this understanding and commitment and inspire a new generation of UN supporters. The theme has been chosen for the UN 50th Anniversary is "We the People of United Nations.....United Better World", as endorsed by the Preparatory Committee and adopted by the General Assembly. The Anniversary provides the opportunity for the UN to reach out to broad constituencies, new and old, across national, political and social boundaries, bridging gaps of understanding and information regarding its work. The Anniversary offers enormous opportunities for all parties concerned:-



  • For the Organization itself, to reflect on the lessons of the past and chart the course of the future.

  • For Member States, to examine new ways of using UN's potential to the greatest degree possible.

  • For the public at large, to learn about the full range of UN's activities and appreciate the scope of its tasks; to celebrate UN achievements and debate its shortcomings; and to contribute creativity, initiative and support for UN goals.

Tuesday, December 25, 2007

CAPA '96


CAPA, the Confederation of Asia & Pacific Accountants, was founded in 1957. Its mission is 'The development and enhancement of the accountancy profession in the Asian and Pacific regions'. An Organization within the global umbrella of the International Federation of Accountants (IFAC), CAPA is the world's largest regional accountancy organization currently, having a membership of 31 national accountancy organizations from 21 countries. They are Australia, Bangladesh, Canada, Fiji, France, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, New Zealand, Pakistan, Papua New Guinea, The Philippines, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Taiwan, Thailand, USA and Western Samoa. These 31 national accountancy organizations have a total membership in excess of 690 000 professionals. The CAPA conference is held three times in every 10 years. The 14th CAPA conference or CAPA '96 Malaysia was held in Kuala Lumpur, from October 7 to 9, 1996 with the theme 'The Asian Renaissance: Powerhouse of the New Millennium". The conference program will consist of a keynote address, 5 plenary sessions and 9 concurrent workshops sessions. Leading personalities in the accountancy profession as well as presidents of various accountancy organizations are expected to attend this conference.Malaysia, through the Malaysian Institute of Accountants was one of the founder members of CAPA. In recognition of her commitment and significant contributions, the CAPA Secretariat is permanently located in Kuala Lumpur since 1993. In the same year, Malaysia was elected to the executive committee of CAPA and also won the bid to host the 14th CAPA conference.Through its involvement in CAPA, the Malaysian accountancy profession has been greatly enhanced internationally. Malaysia's world class accounting standards, as acknowledged by its peers in developed nations, have most certainly provided assurance and comfort to global investors and corporations.

Monday, December 24, 2007

50th Aviation of Malaysia

In 1947, Malayan Airways Limited (MAL) pioneered air services in Malaya with twin engine Airspeed Consul, capable of seating only 5 persons with flights between Kuala Lumpur, Singapore, Ipoh and Penang. Fifty years later, its successor, Malaysia Airlines takes off every 90 seconds in more than 75 international destinations in six continents carrying up to 400 passengers on ultra-modern B747 Jumbo Jets. Malaysia Airlines has ambitious plans to be a mega carrier by the turn of the century, in tandem with the nation's vigorous push to attain industrialized status in the same time span.
Central to the plan is the creation of business units and subsidiaries to inject entrepreneurship and enhance profitability. To date, the catering, in-flight retail, tour and luxury cruise, and engineering activities have commenced operations as autonomous subsidiaries. Others, such as the cargo and training divisions are on the verge of being converted from business units into subsidiaries.
Aggressive strategies to expand the airline's global network to penetrate new markets, extend wider span of services to customers and enhance product competitiveness, have been relentlessly pursued in the past two years. On 2nd April 1997, Malaysia Airlines celebrates 50 years of aviation in Malaysia - one marked by many milestones in development and achievements. The occasion presents a timely opportunity for celebrating the past and embracing the future. The 50 years of history has endowed the airline with a rich heritage of excellence in the many aspects of their services and operations. Malaysia Airlines is reputed for its in-flight service, which is uniquely Malaysian. The airline is internationally recognized for its high standards of safety and engineering maintenance capabilities.Malaysia Airlines has a fleet of more than 100 aircraft reaching out globally as the only airline form South East Asia operating into 6 continents. The airline is proud of this heritage and strives to retain traditional values, such as the warm Malaysian hospitality accorded in in-flight services. In its quest to offer superior in-flight comfort and amenities, Malaysia Airlines has accelerated its fleet modernization and rationalization program. The national carrier will be taking delivery of the first batch of the new generation B777 and B747s in April 1997, giving a major boost to its plans to won the youngest and most sophisticated fleet in the industry, as it takes off into the new millennium.

TRADITIONAL MALAYWEAPONS – SERIES II

Basically Traditional Malay weapons can be classified into daggers, swords, spears and also the cannon. The keris which has special significance has been used by the Malays for over five hundred year. The keris and other weapons like the jembiah, kerambit and lading terus among others are weapons of self-defense used by Malays for generations. However, today the keris and other traditional weapons
Are more for ceremonial and decorative purposes.

JEMBIAH - 20¢

The Jembiah has a curved double-edged blade. The scabbard and the hilt, normally engraved, are made of wood or a combination of wood and horn.

KERIS PANJANG – 30¢

The Keris Panjang was made primarily for fighting. It has a characteristic hill with a wavy or a straight blade.

KERAMBIT – 50¢

The Kerambit is a short weapon- narrow-bladed and claw-shaped – more suitable for ripping rather than for stabbing.

KERIS SUNDANG – RM1

The Keris Sundang is a broad-bladed sword, more for cutting and slashing. The blade, either curved or straight, is usually about 22 inches long and about 3 inches in breath.

LADING TERUS – RM2

The Lading Terus is a short stabbing spear used with an underhand thrust. It resembles a spear fitted into a dagger hilt.

Sunday, December 23, 2007

The Kuala Lumpur 98 Games



The Kuala Lumpur 98 – XVI Commonwealth Games, from 11 to 21 September 1998, will see a total of 15 games. Since 1994 Pos Malaysia has portrayed these games in ‘Wira’ (games mascot) stances in the ‘gutter’ of each pre-issue.

The first pre-issue – XVI Commonwealth Games stamps in 1994 saw four new team events – cricket, hockey, netball and rugby. The stamps portrayed the map of Malaysia against the globe with the Sukom logo and ‘Wira’ – the official mascot.

The second pre-issue release in 1995 featured three game poses – athletics, boxing and badminton. The stamps incorporated seven sporting events against a dynamic Kuala Lumpur skyline while the other stamp showed seven other sporting events against a montage of the modern facilities available in Kuala Lumpur.

In 1996, the pre-issue concentrated on four individual events – weightlifting, gymnastics, shooting and cycling. The stamps portrayed four track and field events – track, hurdles, high jump and javelin.

The 1997 pre-issue culminates with the fourth and last pre-issue stamps for the XVI Commonwealth Games.

The four stamp designs for 1997 depict team sports – hockey, netball, cricket and rugby. The designs are artistically rendered in contrasting colours while highlighting the challenges and intensity of each team sport. At the same time they depict the team spirit of the Commonwealth countries. The ‘gutter’ depicts the ‘Wira’ mascot in four games poses – lawn bowls, squash, tenpin bowling and swimming.

The countdown is on – 300 days to the biggest sporting extravaganza in Malaysia – The Kuala Lumpur 98 Games.

Saturday, December 22, 2007

50TH ANNIVERSARY OF IATA


The International Air Transport Association (IATA) Annual General Meeting is an important event in the calendar of the airline industry, one that is well supported and attended by chef executives of airlines from all over the world. Not only is it an unprecedented honor for Malaysia to host such a prestigious event but it also represents a wonderful opportunity for these chiefs of airlines to experience Malaysia firsthand.

This meeting represents a great honor for both host country Malaysia and Malaysia Airlines, as the presidency of IATA this year is held by the chairman of Malaysia Airlines, Tan Sri Dato’ Tajudin Ramli.

Interest in IATA among the airline industry is at an all-time high, with a record of over 220 airlines currently in its membership. Its members carry more than 95 percent of the world’s scheduled international air traffic under the flags of over 120 independent nations.

While the global airline industry has evolved since IATA was founded in 1945, the major purpose of the Association has not changed. It is to ensure that worldwide airline traffic moves with the greatest possible speed, safety, security, convenience and efficiency of passengers and cargo shippers-and with utmost economy for its members.

“IATA’s role and significance have increased significantly over the past decade in line with the globalization of the industry,” said Tan Sri Dato’ Tajudin Ramli at the last annual general meeting held in Mexico City where he assumed the presidency. “There is every history-a chapter that will perhaps begin to re-define and broaden the entire industry.”

With a view to re-positioning the Association and re-defining its structure and role, the 51st Annual General Meeting in Kuala Lumpur will be a critical one as the Association seeks to find new ways of serving its members more effectively, not only in the next few critical years of the industry, but well into the 21st century.

These specially designed stamps depicting 2 se-tenant pairs of 30sen and 50sen commemorates the 50th Anniversary of the International Air Transport Association (IATA) which also coincides with the 51st Annual General Meeting of IATA to be held in Kuala Lumpur on 30 and 31 October 1995.

The four stamps depict Malaysia Airlines’ major destinations. The 30sen se-tenant pair features a Malaysian background and the Asia/Australia/New Zealand destinations. The 50sen se-tenant pair depicts Europe/Africa and the Americas.

The IATA logo is prominently displayed in all the four stamps.

Friday, December 21, 2007

MALAYSIA EAST ASIA SATELLITE (MEASAT)

The Malaysia East Asia Satellite (MEASAT) programme is a two-satellite system which will spearhead the nation’s entry into the exclusive world community of communications satellite owners and operators. MEASAT falls under the category of new generation satellites which are specially designed for both broadcasting and communications services. Carrying an advanced hybrid payload designed for digital applications, MEASAT will provide an ideal medium to link Malaysians internally and to their East Asian neighbors. Being a regional satellite system, MEASAT is particularly suited for the region’s needs. The VSAT technology using MEASAT also opens the door to simultaneous transmission of video, data and voice over a single line. From its orbital slot 91.5°E, the footprints of MEASAT will cover most of East Asia, including Northern Australia, Hong Kong, India, Kampuchea, Laos, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Taiwan, Thailand, Vietnam, parts of Southern China and Malaysia. MEASAT-1 was launched into orbit from the European space port of Kourou in French Guiana, South America. The Ariane-4 is the launch vehicle used to deploy MEASAT-1 into geosynchronous orbit 36,000 kilometers above the equator. Telemetry, tracking and control of both satellites will be monitored from the MEASAT Satellite Control Centre located in Pulau Langkawi, an island off the north-west coast of Peninsular Malaysia, identified as the nation’s aerospace centre.

The 30sen stamp shows Ariance-4, the launch vehicle that will propel MEASAT into space. The 50sen stamp shows MEASAT’s reach extending throughout the East Asian region. The RM1 stamp shows the MEASAT Satellite Control Centre located at Gunung Raya in Pulau Langkawi.

WWF History

How We Came About
WWF-Malaysia has been working in Malaysia for over 3 decades. We’ve come a long way since those early days in 1972 with only 2 employees, a tiny office and sheer determination. Today, we have grown to be one of the largest and most influential nature conservation organisations in the country. Our growth over the past 3.5 decades has been punctuated by events that have brought us from strength to strength.
Milestones
1972
HRH Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh handed over the official WWF Charter to Encik Khir Johari (the late Tan Sri), WWF-Malaysia’s newly installed President.
WWF conducted its first ever project by assisting the National Parks Board (now Sabah Parks) with a survey of Pulau Gaya, off the coast of Kota Kinabalu. It is now part of the Tunku Abdul Rahman Park established in 1974.
1977
The Bata-sponsored WWF mobile education unit begins visiting school children throughout Peninsular Malaysia and sharing the wonders of our natural world with them.
1980
The World Conservation Strategy is launched and the first State Conservation Strategy begins in Negeri Sembilan.
1981
WWF-Malaysia joined forces with the Sarawak Forest Department to survey the proposed Lanjak-Entimau Wildlife Sanctuary leading to its gazettement in 1983.
1987
Our name changed from the World Wildlife Fund to the World Wide Fund for Nature to reflect the broadening of our work from species and habitats to the way people use natural resources of all kinds.
1988
WWF-Malaysia and the Sabah Foundation organised a scientific expedition to survey the unexplored Maliau Basin in Sabah.
1989
Prince Philip, President of WWF International, visits the Danum Valley Conservation Area, Sabah. His visit focused the spotlight on one of the most significant conservation area for large forest animals in Southeast Asia.
1992
Duli Yang Maha Mulia Sultan Azlan Shah becomes our Patron.

Thursday, December 20, 2007

Fungi of Malaysia


Fungi are plants that have no roots, leaves flowers or chlorophyll. Their mode of life enables them to grow without sunlight. They cannot make their own food and so are saprophytes (obtaining their food from dead and decaying matter) or parasites (taking food from living plants and animals).

Fungi are much more than mere curiosities of the forest. In fact, of all the forms of life in the jungle, fungi are perhaps the most essential. As saprobes, fungi break down plant and animal matter, recycling nutrients and other important elements such as carbon and nitrogen back to nature. In this way, they directly or indirectly support all manner of life.

The species of fungi features here are:

a) Microporus xanthopus (Bracket Fungi) - 20¢
A member of the “pored” fungi, this fungus possesses millions of tiny pores on the underside of the cap instead of gills. The fungus grows on trees and fallen timber. Its fruiting bodies are leathery, hard and woody instead of fleshy, and are long-lasting.

b) Cookeina tricholoma (Cup Fungus) - 30¢
This brilliantly-coloured cup fungus with hair (trichomes) on the cup (apothecium) is reputed to be among the prettiest of all fungi. Its fruiting bodies are initially closed, but they expand with growth to become cup or disc-shaped. It is commonly found on fallen twigs or logs and may be completely sessile or supported by a short stalk.

c) Dictyophora phalloidea (Veil Fungus) - 50¢
This is a saprophytic fungus. The fruiting body springs out of the soil in the early morning and withers after a few hours. It gives off a nauseating stench to attract flies and other insects to help disperse its pores. The fungus has a characteristic veil or net-like expansion called indusium, hence its common name “veil fungus”.

d) Ramaria sp. (Coral Fungus) – RM1
This is one of the numerous species of highly branched coral fungi growing on the forest floor or dead tree stumps. It is bush-shaped and orange coloured. Its flesh is white and darkens slowly when exposed to air.

Wednesday, December 19, 2007

Malaysia Fruits Stamp

This is the fruits that can be found in Malaysia and are using as a picture to print on stamp. Malaysia are riche with produce this kind of fruits.
  • 40cents stamp-Rambutan(Nephelium lappaceum)
  • Rambutan is natively grows in Malaysia and Indonesia. This hairy fruits hang on branches on woody stalk and is round or oblong in shape. The hairy thin and pliable skin gains it the name, which ‘rambut’ means hair in Malay.

50cents stamp-Nanas(Ananas comosus)

The fruit is known as nenas among the Malays, a name derived from its scientific name ananas. The Malaysian pineapple has come a long way since it was first introduced from South America. Although there are many varieties of pineapples, the most important commercial varieties are the nenas hijau (green pineapaple), nenas merah (red pineapple), nenas Sarawak and nenas Morris. The last two are for raw consumption while the former are meant for canning. The Malaysian pineapple can be made into a refreshing drink, used in fruit cocktail and made into preserves and jam.

80cents stamp-Durian(Durio zibethinus)

The locals call this thorny football-size fruit as the 'King of Fruits'. The fruit is round to elongated green to greenish bronze in colour and covered with sharp spines. It normally contains 5-6 locules, each with 1- 5 seeds embedded in custard-like aril which is whitish-cream to orangey yellow in colour.

RM1 stamp-Manggis(Garcinia mangostana)

Mangosteen, the 'Queen of fruits' and is believe to be cool (Ying) in nature and will neutralized the heat (Yang) from other fruit. It is round in shape and the skin is light green when it is young and will eventually turn to reddish or dark purple when it is ripe. It takes about 15 years to grow a mangosteen tree before it is mature enough to produce any fruit. The flesh in the fruit is snowy white and nicely arranged in segmental form. Each fruit will have normally 6-10 segments inside. It is delicately tasted and soft.

RM2 stamp-Belimbing Besi(Averrhoa carambola)

Star fruit tree has a lot of branches thus producing a lot of water shoots. The fruit is oval in shape with 5 ribs or angles which give a star shape when cut. This gives it the name as star fruit. The skin of the fruit is green when small and will turn into yellow or orange when ripe. The flesh is always juicy and varies from sour to sweet. Star fruit is not a seasonal fruit and can be found all year round. It is rich in Vitamin B and C and is believed that star fruit can lower the blood pressure.

RM5 stamp-Pisang Mas(Musa sapientum)

There are various type of banana can be found in Malaysia all with different name and appearance. For example Pisang mas is the short and little banana, Pisang rastali and Pisang Tanduk are often made into fried banana and other dining banana such as Pisang Susu, Pisang Raja etc. Some bananas are even made into dishes together with its stem and flowers.

RM10 stamp-Kuini(Mangifera odorata)

Kuini is from the same species as the mango, but exudes a harmless sap having a strong resinous smell. This sap is poisonous, however, if the unripened fruits are eaten. Only fruits that are fully ripe should be eaten. The leaves vary in size from six to fourteen inches in length, and the flowers are strongly scented. The kuini is likely native to West Malaysia, where orchards are very common.

ASEAN Anniversary Stamp


The Association of Southeast Asian Nations or ASEAN was established on 8 August 1967 in Bangkok by the five original Member Countries, namely, Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, and Thailand. Brunei Darussalam joined on 8 January 1984, Vietnam on 28 July 1995, Lao PDR and Myanmar on 23 July 1997, and Cambodia on 30 April 1999.
The ASEAN region has a population of about 500 million, a total area of 4.5 million square kilometers, a combined gross domestic product of almost US$ 700 billion, and a total trade of about US$ 850 billion.
The picture shown the 25th and 30th Anniversary of ASEAN 1967-1997.

About ASEAN

ASEAN, an alliance consisting of the Philippines, Malaysia and Thailand that was formed in 1961. According to the Bangkok Declaration, ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asia) was established on August 8, 1967 with the five foreign ministers – Adam Malik of Indonesia, Narciso R. Ramos of the Philippines, Abdul Razak of Malaysia, S. Rajaratnam of Singapore and Thanat Khoman of Thailand (organization’s Founding Fathers) met at the Thai Department of Foreign Affairs buiding in Bangkok and signed the ASEAN Declaration. On January 7, 1984, Brunei Darulssalam became the sixth member barely a week after the country became independent on January 1.

The aims and purposes of ASEAN are:-

  • to accelerate economic growth, social progress, cultural development,technical, educational and other fields in the region.
  • To promote regional peace and stability through abiding respect for justice and the rule of law in the relationship among countries in the region and adherence to the principles of the United Nations Charter.

Tuesday, December 18, 2007

CLOUDED LEOPARD OF MALAYSIA


The Clouded Leopard (Harimau Dahan) is one of the most beautiful of cats, having a coat of distinctive markings. It is the only big cat found in both Peninsular Malaysia and the island of Borneo. An adult of this species weighs between 11kg and 20kg. It has relatively short legs and a thick furry tail which is often as long as the body.

The Clouded Leopard is found in Southeast Asia and as far west as Nepal, but nowhere is it abundant. It is a solitary animal, elusive, an expert climber and a good swimmer. It feeds on a wide range of animals including monkeys, deer and pigs. Despite legal protection in many countries, including Malaysia, its population is on the decline.

Sunday, December 16, 2007

Animal Stamp 1

All the stamp here is using the animal that can founded in Malaysia as a background. As you can see some of this animal had nearly extinct. With the animal protection by government, some animal can be found in Zoo Negara. Many country of Malaysia got a Zoo to protect this animal to prevent their extinction. The 30 cents stamp show out the animal of the Panthera Tigris, the 40 cents stamp show the Cynocephalus variegatus, the 50 cents stamp show the Tragulus javanicus, the 75 cents stamp show Manis javanicus, the RM2 stamp show Tapirus mdicus, the RM5 stamp show Bos gaurus and the RM10 show Pongos pygmaeus.

North Borneo Stamp

Here is the two kind of stamp of North Borneo. The first one is the 3 cents stamp. This stamp is very old and i dont even know when this stamp published on. The background of this stamp is using the natural plant of coconut tree on it. Cause at North Borneo or Sabah have many kind of coconut tree growing there.
The another picture of the stamp, as you can see there is a head of Queen Elizabeth with her sweet smile on it. Each stamp using diffrent kind of background. For the 5 cents stamp are using the animal of Clouded Leopard, the 6 cents stamp using a Dusun Woman With Gong (a tradisional musical) and the 10 cents stamp is using the Map of Malaysia showing that where the North Borneo located at.  In 1963 North Borneo changed its name to Sabah and joined the Federation of Malaysia.


About Malaysia

Malaysia covers an area of about 329,758 square kilometers, consisting of Peninsular Malaysia, the states of Sabah and Sarawak and the Federal Territory of Labuan in the north-western coastal area of Borneo Island. The two regions are separated by about 531.1 kilometers of South China Sea. Peninsular Malaysia, covering 131,598 square kilometers, has its frontiers with Thailand in the North and Singapore in the South, while Sabah with an area of 73,711 square kilometers and Sarawak about 124,449 square kilometers, border the territory of Indonesian’s Kalimantan province.

States in Peninsular Malaysia
· Johore, Kedah, Kelantan, Melaka, Negeri Sembilan, Pahang, Pulau Pinang, Perak, Perlis, Selangor, Terengganu and the Federal Territories of Kuala Lumpur and Putrajaya. Pahang with an area of 35,965 square kilometers is the largest state in Peninsular Malaysia.

State of Sabah consists of five divisions
· Tawau, Sandakan, Kudat, West Coast and Interior. The Federal Territory of Labuan, covering an area of 91 square kilometers is situated off the west coast of Sabah.
Sarawak comprises nine divisions
· Kuching, Sri Aman, Sibu, Miri, Sarikei, Limbang, Kapit, Bintulu and Kota Samarahan.
Malaysia lies near the Equator between latitudes 1º and 7º North and longitudes 100º and 119º East. The year is generally divided into the South-East and the North-East Monsoon seasons. The average daily temperature throughout Malaysia varies from 21ºC to 32ºC. Humidity is 80% high.

Malaysia’s rainforest is considered as the oldest in the world. The diverse species of animal and plant life continue to excite a great deal of scientific research. Many believe that some undiscovered plant may hold cures to many currently incurable human diseases.

It is estimated that over 15,000 flowering plant species (9% of world’s total) and 185,000 animal species (16% world’s total) are found in Malaysia.
· Malaysia’s flowering plants include some 2,000 types of trees, including 200 different palms and 3,000 species of orchids. The world’s largest flower, the Rafflesia is unique to the region. The towering Tualang tree (record-breaker), is the tallest of all tropical trees. It can reach up to 80 meters (260ft) in height.
· Malaysia rainforest holds hundred of thousands of animal species, many which are unique to the region and the world. A total of 286 species of mammals, 736 species of birds, 406 species of amphibians and reptiles and more than 100,000 species of insects have been recorded in the country. Among the mammals which live here include tigers, elephants, rhinoceros, tapirs, civet cat, leopards, bears and two kinds of gibbons and monkeys. Sabah and Sarawak are homes of the extraordinary Orang Utan.
· The two species of crocodiles in Malaysia are the estuarine crocodile and gharial. Crocodiles are known to inhabit large rivers especially in Sarawak. The river terrapins are found in major system in the peninsular is in the rivers of Perak, Kedah, Terengganu and Pahang.
· The east coast of Peninsular Malaysia provides one of the most important landing sites for marine turtles especially the leatherback turtle. Rantau Abang in Terengganu is the main landing site for the leatherback turtles in the country. The turtle Islands of the coast of Sabah are also important for the conservation of marine turtles in the region.
· The important areas for migratory birds include Kuala Gula in Perak, Pulau Bruit in Sarawak and the coastal areas of Sabah.
· The fresh water fish which is most abundant in Malaysia is the carp. Other types are, the kelesa, sebarau, toman and haruan.

Friday, December 14, 2007

Malaysia Second Series (1972-1976)








Bank Negara Malaysia launched its second series notes in year 1972. As the new Malay spelling system was launched in 16 August 1972, therefore BNM incorporated the spelling system into the currency notes, but maintained the appearance of the currency. For example, the word “SA-PULOH” was changed to “SEPULUH”, "SA-RATUS to SERATUS" and "SA-RIBU to SERIBU". In the 1976, additional security measurement was taken, whereas a latent image which the numeric number will appear when the notes being bend to certain angle of view.


Thursday, December 13, 2007

Another antique pocket watch to sell



This is the other antique pocket watcgh i would like to sell. Any trader are interest it please to email me or giving me comment for let me know.

About Sabah

As early as the 9th century AD., Sabah, then under various chieftains traded with China and later the Spanish and the Portuguese. During the 15th century, Sabah was a vassal of the Sultan of Brunei. In 1704, the Sultan of Brunei ceded the land east of Murudu Bay to the Sultan of Sulu. In the early 1880’s, Moses, an American trader, obtained a lease over Sabah from Brunei. The lease eventually passed to Alfred Dent, an Englishman. In 1881, he signed a treaty with Brunei and Sulu, converting the lease into a cession.

Thus the British North Borneo (Sabah old name) was born. It was administered by the Chartered Company of British North Borneo until the Japanese occupation. In 1945, after World War II, Sabah became a British Crown Colony. In 1963, it gained independence and joined Malaysia. Today Sabah is an integral part of Malaysia.

100 Years Sarawak Museum

The renowned Sarawak Museum was built in 1891. It was restored to its current form in 1911 and remained the only museum in Borneo until 1964. The museum was established to house and display local native arts and crafts as well as collections of local animals. Today, this wing is used as the main area for exhibit collections on the natural history of Sarawak. Visitors exploring the ground floor of the museum will discover the natural history collection and samples of Sarawak's fascinating fauna as well as reptiles, mammals, birds and much more; all skillfully and carefully organized. An interesting feature on the ground floor is the west wing which houses Shell exhibition. The first floor of the museum houses various displays from musical instruments, different types of fish and animal traps, handicrafts and ethno graphics artifacts like samples of longhouses of Sarawak's various ethnic groups.

PATA 86 RM1 Coins


This is the 35th Annual Conference PATA 86 RM1 Coin with the leatherback turtle print on it.

Wednesday, December 12, 2007

RM 1 Fourth Malaysia Plan Coin


RM1 coin depicts Tun Hussein Onn, one the previous prime minister of Malaysia. This coin is to commemorate the Fourth Malaysia Plan 1981 - 1985.

Malaya And British Borneo 50 Cents Coin

The 50-cent coin issued by the Board of Commissioners of Currency Malaya and British depicts the portrait of Queen Elizabeth II.

Tuesday, December 11, 2007

Rajah Charles Brooke Coins



This two picture are show the coins of One Cent Rajah Charles Brooke 1870-1891. There are the different that you can see between two of it. The upside of the picture show only head of Rajah C. Brooke. But the downside of the picture had added two flage on it and the coin also had a hole at the center.

Rajah Charles Vyner Brooke Coins



First picture show the Half Cents of Raja C.V. Brooke Coin 1927-1941.
Second picture show that One Cents of same Rajah.
And the third picture show the 10 Cents of Rajah C.V> Brooke too.

Sir James Brooke 1803-68, rajah of Sarawak on Borneo, b. India, of English parents. After active service in Burma (1825-26), he retired (1830) from the army of the East India Company. He sailed (1838) for Borneo, and on the west coast there he assisted (1840) Muda Hassim, uncle of the reigning sultan, to suppress rebel Dyak tribes. For his services he was made (1841) rajah by the sultan of Brunei and proceeded to create a government and to put down head-hunting and piracy. He was given a baronetcy by the British government and entrusted with the governorship (1847-57) of Labuan. He was succeeded by his nephew, Sir Charles Anthony Johnson Brooke, 1829-1917. Sir Charles extended the authority of the government to all parts of the country and abolished slavery. He was succeeded by his son, Sir Charles Vyner Brooke, 1874-1963. Sir Charles was forced out of Sarawak in 1942 by the Japanese invasion. He ceded Sarawak to the British government as a crown colony in 1946.

Monday, December 10, 2007

Sabah History

Sabah ( formerly known as British North Borneo ) came under British Administrative rule in 1881 when a Royal Charter gave the North Borneo Chartered Company authority to rule and administer the colony. Some years later, the British North Borneo Museum was established in Sandakan. This museum was discontinued and revived a couple of times until the Sabah Museum was opened in 1965.

The Sabah Museum, located in a shophouse at Gaya Street, Kota Kinabalu, was officially opened in July 15, 1965. The establishment of the Museum was to a large extent due to the efforts of the Sabah Society. In fact, the famous Wolley Collection, which formed the foundation collection of the incipient museum, belonged to Mr. G. C Wolley, the executive officer designate of the proposed society ( died in 1947 ). The first curator of the Sabah Museum was Mr. E. Joe Berwick. The Sabah Museum grew and expanded rapidly while still located at Gaya Street. It was reflective of the State Government's commitment to the Sabah Museum when a much larger (43 acres), permanent and prestigious site for the purpose-built museum was chosen where the old Government House ( and later the State Legislative Assembly buildings ) used to be.

In 1981, the museum came under the Ministry of Community Services, and later in 1982, under the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports. The official opening of the Sabah Museum, located at its present site was officiated by His Majesty the Yang Di-Pertuan Agong on April 11, 1984. In 1985, the post of curator was upgraded to become the Director of Museum.

Malayan 25 Cents Note





On the left of the picture is the front page of the Board of Commissioners of Currency Malaya - 25 cents in straits settlements. And the right is the back of the 25 cents note with the 13 country name print on it. The note is not clearly to seen cause it had been too old to collect.

The Board commenced to issue currency in 1939. All the notes issued by the Board bore the portrait of King George VI (1936 - 1952).

Export Rubber Coupon Sarawak



The rubber industry was a key industry, which contributed to the growth of the Malayan economy. Rubber coupons were introduced during the depression in the rubber industry after the First world War under the Stevenson Restriction Scheme, 1922.

Before World War II, The Malay States were the world's largest producer of natural rubber. In an effort to increase the world price of rubber, restrictions were placed on the export of rubber. Rubber growers were issued Rubber Export Coupons based on the size their rubber plantation and the age of their trees. The coupons had to be turned in when the rubber was exported. Many small producers found it easier and more profitable to sell or trade their rubber coupons than to actually harvest and sell their quota of rubber. The coupons became a form of currency in many rubber growing areas. The picture is describing 1 Picul Rubber Coupon from Sarawak. The coupon states "This Coupon is Valid for the Export of 1 Picul of Dry Rubber until 31st March1942". 1 Picul is equivilent to100 katis about 133.3 pounds (60.48 Kg./0.595 ton.) of rubber. Depending on the price of rubber, the coupon could trade for 100 Malay Dollars or more!

Saturday, December 8, 2007

Commissioners of Currency Malaya-1 Cent King Emperor George VI



Malaya and British Borneo was a monetary union for the British colonies along the Malay Straits that included the Malay States (formerly the Straits Settlements), North Borneo and Sarawak. It issued coins from 1953 to 1962. The coins were replaced by the coins of the independent nations of Malaysia, Singapore and Brunei in the 1960’s. The coins are Uncirculated, though may be slightly toned. The coins of this short-lived monetary union are rarely seen today.


Friday, December 7, 2007

Antique Pocket Watch




This is an antique my father in law had been collected for many years ago. This pocket watch had been malfunctioning too. But as you can see the photo here, the decoration on it cover is very unique and clearly seen untill now. This photo is taken as you can view larger the picture. But now this type of pocket watch is unable to find. It had a text writting on the cover " MEDAILLE D'OR geneve 1896" with the mark of ROSKOPF PATENT.
But now this item my father wish to handle out for someone that really like to collect and take care of it. If you are interest with this item and would like to know more, please do email meas you can find my email address in my profile.