Mistake Cancellation - Return / Unclaimed

Received this Registered letter with mistake cancellation "Return / Unclaimed". The cancellation was further erased by the post staff. 

Insufficient Postage - Private Letter (Part 2)

In this posting, I am showing the private letter instead of the companies sent letters. This test result shown although 60c domestic rate is not fully comply, the post staff still delivered the letter successfully without imposed any fine. But a Tax cancellation indicating the amount due is shown. 

Insufficient Postage - Mail Redirection (Part 1)

This is another series of my testing on the Pos Malaysia mail delivery and operations. All letters that were mailed with insufficient postage rate will be subject to a tax (fine). The normal practice is cancel the letter with a "Tax" and fine accordingly and affixed postage due stamp after fined collected. But not all postal authority around the world will do the same. To name a few, Australia and New Zealand do not issue postage due stamps.

Back to the topic I wanted to discuss, i.e. Mail redirection. Due to recent changed of mail tariff for domestic mailing, the public or some companies may not fully aware and still affixing 30c for standard rate. This is expected and letter sent especially from corporations and companies which paid insufficient postage will be redirect back to the them instead of sending to the recipient and fine them. 


The post office staff cancelled the letter with "Unclaim" (Tidak Dituntut). This cancellation maybe misleading. Perhaps, it should say "Insufficient Postage, Return to Sender". No penalty is imposed. For non-companies letter, I tried, it will not redirect back to sender.

Postally used MelRakyat, a Domestic Aerogramme (1Malaysia series) - Part 2

Sent with contents, with added 30c to make up 60c domestic mailing rate.

Sent to oversea, with insufficient postage and with contents (front view).

Pos Malaysia notice attached to the Domestic Aerogramme informing insufficient postage (back view).

Continuing Part 2 of this topic, shown above are the "Mel Rakyat" sent with insertion (paper inside) and added 30c postage with intention to test whether Pos Malaysia will imposed penalty or it get return to the sender or it get delivered. The result is, it successfully sent to the addressee, without any penalty for it's additional weight. This is due to added 30c postage. I did few of this without adding postage, it sent through successfully as well. 

The second test is to send the "Mel Rakyat" to oversea address, with insertion and insufficient postage. Pos Malaysia returned it to the sender (after few weeks posted) with a notice of lack of 30c. The postage rate to Vietnam is 90c for Zone A up to 20 grams. I have not go further to test whether I add the 30c shortage of postage and resend this letter. The conclusion, as long as you affixed correct postage rate, Pos Malaysia will deliver the "Mel Rakyat" even it intended usage is for domestic. It just treat it as conventional letter.

Postally used MelRakyat, a Domestic Aerogramme (1Malaysia series) - Part 1

MelRakyat (Citizen Mail) was introduced by Pos Malaysia to cater for the needs of the "Rakyat" (citizen) on the raise of the new tariff for domestic mail in 1 July 2010. Where the public can still send domestic letter with old rate (30c) instead of the new rate of 60c. It is similar to the aerogramme but only for domestic posting and no paper, insertion allowed in the letter. MelRakyat was released on 26 Apr 10, but it is not widely available at all post office during that time. On my recent purchased at HQ, I was told that the stock is limited. I am not sure Pos Malaysia will re-print more in the future (since it is kind of a definitive issue) or the stock is really low as claimed by the post staff.

I posted few "MelRakyat" addressed to myself for the purpose of testing out various configurations, i.e. sent it as per requirements (as shown above) before and after the new tariff, sent with insertion (paper) and sent to oversea. I will post the test results in my coming posting.

In recent months, I did lot of testing and try to form some kind of study related to the post efficiency and improvement. My previous post on the complaint was one of the test on the customer service, of course I am not the one who removed the stamps, the incident happen at the right time for me to carry out the desired test. I will post more test results in year 2011 on various category. I want to do something different from other blog which merely shown philatelic cover and stamp without any descriptions, behind the scene (the postal operations, the stamp design, the usage statistic, the efficiency) or some study subject or research. Well, this is my next year blogging goal. Oops, I shouldn't leak what is my 2011 blogging plan, I should wait for the Christmas or New Year article posting :-)

Stayed tune for more.

Bukit Raja Mail Processing Center Closed and 1Malaysia Slogan Postmark

I was told by the post staff the current Bukit Raja Mail Processing Center is closed and shifted all it's operations to the New Mail Center (NMC) in Shah Alam. This apply to mail processing center in Dayabumi (Post HQ). I can't recalled the last working date for Bukit Raja, so I didn't try to obtain the last operation day cancellation. Anyway, above is the recent clear and neat 1Malaysia postmark from Bukit Raja.

Stamps Removed from Registered Letter - A Pos Malaysia Complaint (Nov'10)

Last month, I received a Registered letter from Thailand which I feel very disappointed. At least 5 to 6 stamps were removed illegally from the letter during the transit from Bangkok to Kuala Lumpur. I immediately lodge an online complaint to Pos Malaysia, seeking for a satisfaction clarification on what is the caused of this unfortunate incidents and who is the culprit behind this. Well, this is a big thing for a philatelist who always treasure stamps and covers and wanted to make sure this will not happen again.

I know there is nothing much I can do and no compensation since the inside contents is not tampered or damaged. At least this complaint will raise alert and awareness to the postal authority to trace and identify the problems and caused.

To my surprise, Pos Malaysia responded to me via a call within 3 working days although the auto responded email said it will response within 7 days. To summarize the flow, the online complain was received by HQ, routed to the district post processing center, in this case is Puchong. The Manager and Assistant Manager received a copy of my complaint and my scan image (above) via fax. 

After the investigation, the Assistant Manager called me to apologize this matter happen to me, he explained to me the trace of this letter starting from Bangkok, entering to Malaysia, until the postman delivered to my home address. There were many people in between handling it and they couldn't find who is the culprit. He also personally questioned the postman and gave briefing to all the staffs on always taking care of customer's letters. The postman even dropped by my house to explain the situation (that is the second surprise). Although is a small complaint, but I am happy with the response and seriousness of Pos Malaysia acting and responding to their customer.  

I accepted the apology and agreed to close this case. If you have similar problems or need to lodge a complaint, you can go to:

http://pos.com.my/V1/main2.asp?c=/V1/servicecentre/csc.htm

Missent Letter - French Polynesia to Malaysia, missent to Ho Chi Minh City (Vietnam)

Missent letter from Papeete, capital of French Polynesia to Malaysia. This letter was wrongly sent to Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. This is an old letter sent in 1993.

Tahiti, a famous tourist destination, is one of the island in the small French territory. Between 1966 and 1996 the French Government conducted 193 nuclear bomb tests above and below the atolls of Moruroa and Fangataufa. The last test was conducted on 27 January 1996. There was a widespread of protests when French resuming it's last nuclear testing in these islands.

Missent Letter - New Calendonia to Malaysia, missent to Jakarta Soekarno Hatta (Indonesia)

Continuing my Pacific Ocean countries and territories series, this time I show a missent letter from Noumea, the capital of New Calendonia to Malaysia. The letter was sent wrongly to Indonesia and redirect back to Malaysia. There is no Malaysia postmark applied onto the cover, so I do not know how long it takes for redirection. This is an old cover sent in 1993. 

Solomon Islands - Postally Used Stamps

This is my 3rd posting on countries located in the South Pacific Ocean. I love to explore and receive letters from tiny islands and non famous territories. Well, during my school days, this is how I learned and explored the world map through philately, it really help me in my Geography knowledge. Unfortunately, the exam is not testing the student on these exotic places. I wish one day, I can visit some of this islands.

Solomon Islands is not too far from us, it is located near Papua New Guinea and Queensland, Australia. Australia domestic airline; Pacific Blue provides a good coverage to most of the Pacific Islands destinations with an affordable price. Beside diving, Solomon Islands has many to offer, you can check out the official tourism website at:  

http://www.visitsolomons.com.sb/

Niue - Postally Used Stamps

Niue is located between Cook Islands, Tonga and American Samoa in the South Pacific Ocean. See the map on Cook Islands in my previous posting.

You can order Niue stamps from New Zealand Post online store at:

http://stamps.nzpost.co.nz/Cultures/en-NZ/Stamps/OtherCountriesAndTerritories/Niue/

Below are Niue profile written by NZ Post:

Nestled in the heart of the South Pacific lies an undiscovered piece of paradise: the sublime, unspoilt, tropical island of Niue. Home to just 1,500 people, Niue offers visitors a unique getaway destination – a breathtaking combination of virgin rainforest, tiny swimming coves and spectacular snorkeling, diving and deep-sea fishing experiences.

Niue also has a strong connection with New Zealand. One of the world’s smallest self-governing states, it operates in ‘free association’ with New Zealand, and most Niueans now live in New Zealand (about 20,000 are Niuean born or of direct Niuean descent). It’s a bond that has endured in various forms for more than 100 years – and one that continues to unite the two nations today.  

Cook Islands - Postally Used Stamps

Colorful fish and corals.

Cook Islands geographical location (South Pacific Ocean), the nearest big city is Suva, the capital of Fiji.

Note: In philately term, a postage stamp cancelled in the normal course of postal business is classified as postally used stamp.

"A Gift of Live" Become An Organ Donor Postmark

 

This is the latest Pos Malaysia postmark used by NMC Shah Alam. Pos Malaysia is collaborating with National Transplant Resource Center, Ministry of Health Malaysia in promoting organ donor to save more life.

There is a dedicated website which you can get more information if you intend to become an organ donor or would like to know more on this campaign, what is organ donor and why it is important. (http://www.agiftoflife.gov.my/v2/eng/index.html)

The above 2 booklets can be obtained in post office nationwide: About Donation and About Brain Death. 

1Malaysia - Real Posted FDC - Issued 10.11.10 (Part 3)

I did a test, I make the FDC, but purposely not to cancel the stamps. Again I worry when this cover reach to mailing center, it pass the FDI date, so I only cancelled at the bottom of the cover to denote I make this cover on the day of issue. Posted it and wait for the surprise what postmark I will get, will the mail center carefully cancel my cover or just cancel it on the franking machine. If yes, maybe I can get the 1Malaysia slogan cancellation. So, is still worth a try.

After few days, I got my cover back in good condition. Cancelled with nice and clear "NMPC Shah Alam" (New Mail Processing Center) postmark. Unfortunately I got the next day cancellation. Well, I know, I dropped it during lunch hour, so the chances to have it on the same day is slim. But there is also no guarantee if I post it in the morning. I did this as well in another post office, it arrived much later than this one and the cancellation is not satisfied, so I'm not showing it here. 


Nevertheless, if you plan to make a "Real Posted FDC" for yourself, is a good advise to post it in the morning before the letter collection time (usually stated on the mail box and is no guarantee as it depends on NMPC's processing time). Another way is to send it by Registered Post. You will get the instant same day cancellation at the counter. Stay tuned for my coming posting. 
   

1Malaysia - Personal Postcards - Issued 10.11.10 (Part 2)

"Papadom" a local film, this is a 2009 local production movie. Got this Ad post card last year from GPO. Thought that it would be nice to cancel with the 1Malaysia stamp (30c "Songket" weaves Multimedia Magic). 

Again these 2 postcards was issued previously and trying to make the Maximum cards, although it is not 100% match with the designs, personally I do love them. Philately is about having fun as well.

1Malaysia - From Culture to Future (2nd series) - Issued 10.11.10 (Part 1)

Complete set with 30c x 2 and 50c x 2.

Kelana Jaya post office serviced FDC.

Bangsar Baru post office serviced FDC.

Back side of FDC, with special greetings message. Printed stamp designer company logo, this is not commonly seen.

Tropicana Mall post office serviced FDC.

Official postcards (x 5 uncut), priced at RM4.00. Front design.

Inside the fold-able uncut postcards, each with preprinted 20c stamp for domestic posting. The combined 4 designs of the respective postcard formed the design of the 5th postcard.

The stamps, 30c "WAU" (traditional Malay Kite) Technology, 30c "Songket" (traditional hand woven fabric) weaves Multimedia Magic, 50c Basket of Bio Wealth and 50c Crafting Malaysia's Skyline.

The accompanied FDC information leaflet has a very good write up on "1Malaysia", since this concept is launched, there are many version of interpretations among the "Rakyat" (citizen) and politicians. I personally support this 1Malaysia concept, but it is important to have a clear understanding of it's true meaning and intentions behind in order for the people and country to move forward to a developed nation. Below are extracted definition of 1Malaysia, I hope this is the true and is the official version (not written by the author or stamp designer for this issue):

1Malaysia is a bold concept that reminds us of our culture, tradition and diversity and how it unites us. 1Malaysia is a caring thought that does not see differences but enables us to look at our common values. 1Malaysia is a genuine plan that takes care of our interests and assures our rights are enshrined in the constitution.

This is founded on the principles of "People First, Performance Now" - the new pathway for all Malaysians, irrespective of race and religion - to think and act as one Bangsar (race) Malaysia, one Malaysia that is united, advanced and prosperous. 

If you are staying around PJ areas, there are 3 post office that provides pictorial FDI cancellation, i.e. Kelana Jaya, Bangsar Baru and UM (in fact, it is not too far from each other). For new post office that still do not have their own standard circular FDI postmark, you either request for the Counter postmark or they will not service your FDC. 

I also talk about my opinion for this design in my previous posting:
http://funstamps.blogspot.com/2010/11/1malaysia-collection-101110-forthcoming.html

Cats and Dogs Australia - Issued 21.09.04

Since 1993 Australia Post has promoted the hobby of stamp collecting amongst children with a special Stamp Collecting Month issue. Above shown is the 2004 "Cats and Dogs" issued. These is the official Maximum Card with prepaid postage for posting in Australia and delivery worldwide.

Australia has the highest incidence of pet ownership in the world. Of all the animals that can be kept as pets, dogs and cats are the most popular: 40 per cent of households own a dog and 26 per cent own a cat.

Dogs were kept to guard or hunt, cats to keep mice away. Over time, cats and dogs became "part of the family" valued for their companionship, not simply for their usefulness.

The stamps, 50c "Ezzie" a black and white cat, 50c "Thinkerbell" a ginger and white kitten, 50c "Max" a Labrador Retriever pupply, 50c "Bridie" and "Lily" West Highland Terriers and $1 "Edward" Jack Russell Terrier.

These adorable Maximum Cards are special appeal to children and undoubtedly be popular for adults as well. 

Princess Diana and New Zealand Health Surcharge Stamps - 1985

New Zealand stamps have pictured many of the British Royal family, the above is one of the issued which appeared in the Health Stamp series. Health stamp is NZ surcharge stamp, which provides a way for the public to donate fund to the health community through stamps. NZ Post released Health stamps on a yearly basis and I find it a very good practice to raise fund for those who in needs.

Princess Diana, Prince Charles, and their children were featured on these 1985 stamps. One 25c stamp showed Princess Diana and her son William, another 25c stamp showed Princess Diana and her son Henry, while the 35c stamp showed the whole family, Prince Charles, Princess Diana, William and Henry.

Just recently, the Royal family announced the news of Prince William to get marriage in 2011 with Kate Middleton. He is the second in line of the succession, behind his father Prince Charles. Prince William is born in 1982, from these stamp, he is 3 years old. These stamps  bring back lot of memories for those who love Princess Diana.

This issue also accompany with a miniature sheet.

Become a Kiwi Collector

For beginner, there is a good introduction Stamp Collecting book issued by New Zealand Post. It is very informative and a guide on how to collect New Zealand stamps by setting up a Standing Order Deposit Account. If you interested to obtain a Free copy, you can contact: http://stamps.nzpost.co.nz/Cultures/en-NZ/

Treasures from the Archives - Large Stamp

Australia Post has created its first jumbo stamp, the size of a miniature sheet, to launch a new series Treasures from the Archives, which highlights items from the National Philatelic Collection. It features the 1932 printing of the two pounds Kangaroo and Map stamp, the highest value stamp in the first Australian Commonwealth series. Above shown is the Stamp Pack.

Royal Mail New Issue Leaflet and Collections Catalog

If you read my previous posting on British Philatelic Bulletin (http://funstamps.blogspot.com/2010/10/british-philatelic-bulletin-and.html), you need to pay for a subscription fee if you want a copy of the Bulletin. Alternatively, for collectors who just need to get alert from Royal Mail on new issues and a catalog where you can order past issues and forthcoming stamp issues, you can write to Royal Mail to have your name added to the mailing list to receive the "first" (send prior to every new issue) and Collections (published by season). Both printed in color and it is Free to all collectors. 

If you keen to obtain this information, please contact Royal Mail at: http://www.royalmail.com/.

Old Post Offices - 09.10.10 (KLCC Postmark)

This issued have 28 stamps in different designs, draw in sketch and water color. You can find unique building architecture of old post offices in different states in Malaysia. If you keen in drawing or would like to view the master piece of these paintings, you can go to GPO, Stamp Gallery in KL. Each painting is with artist signature at the bottom (not shown in the stamp). 

The FDC pictorial shown the evolution of the post box used in different period of time.