Stamps in miniature world

Remembrance

2011-03-08T01:51:00.000+08:00

SOMETIMES
you will never know the true value of A MOMENT
until it becomes A MEMORY.

一生隋缘,
隋缘一生,

才能
夠

活的自在。

感恩 Remembrance - 12 January 2011

2011-01-17T18:45:00.000+08:00

感恩

恩情深似海,

此生忘不了,

母親, 永遠懷念您。

Consular Service Stamps

2011-01-10T16:38:00.000+08:00

Consular Service Stamps issued by Brazil.

These stamps are affixed to the passport's visa page to record the visa fees paid.

Malaysia do not issue special Consular Service stamp for immigration purposes. Hence, definitive stamps were used for passport renewal fees. Modern Malaysian passport is designed with high security biometric passport and memory chip embedded, affixing stamps to signify visa fee payment is not necessary anymore.

What is Consular Service Stamp?
A Consular Service stamps are used for the payment of consular fees for applications such as Visa entry and exit documents. It is issued by the authority and used in embassy and immigration department. These stamps are official but not issued for postal purposes, and therefore, it is categorized under “Cinderella stamp”.

End last year, I managed to free up sometime to write a short article for The Malaysian Philatelist Journal (Pemungut Setem Malaysia). This is the official journal published twice yearly by the "Philatelic Society of Malaysia" (PSM). All members will get a free copy of the journal. I plan to write more in the future if time permit. For those who wish to read the above complete article and many more worth reading materials, you are encourage to join PSM (www.psmonline.org/).

Stamp Week Postmarks - Traditional Past Time Games with Upin & Ipin and Friends

2011-01-07T22:16:00.000+08:00

Lately, I been travelling oversea and very busy with my work. Just a short update for those who do not have chance to obtain the complete "Stamps Week" for Traditional Past Time Games postmarks at Berjaya Time Square last Dec'10, Pos Malaysia will be sending out an order form to all SODA members. This form will be sent together with the Children's Pet issue. Don't miss out this opportunity.

Mistake Cancellation - Return / Unclaimed

2010-12-20T18:22:00.000+08:00

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

Insufficient Postage - Private Letter (Part 2)

2010-12-20T18:17:00.000+08:00

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)

2010-12-20T18:02:00.000+08:00

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

2010-12-13T17:37:00.001+08:00

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

2010-12-06T16:27:00.000+08:00

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

2010-12-06T15:54:00.001+08:00

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)

2010-12-06T15:27:00.000+08:00

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)

2010-11-30T16:44:00.000+08:00

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)

2010-11-30T16:25:00.000+08:00

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

2010-11-26T16:43:00.001+08:00

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

2010-11-26T16:18:00.000+08:00

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

2010-11-24T10:32:00.000+08:00

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

2010-11-22T11:24:00.001+08:00

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)

2010-11-19T11:25:00.000+08:00

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)

2010-11-19T10:50:00.000+08:00

"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)

2010-11-18T17:34:00.000+08:00

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

2010-11-18T16:06:00.000+08:00

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

2010-11-18T12:26:00.000+08:00

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

2010-11-11T15:21:00.000+08:00

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

2010-11-10T11:27:00.000+08:00

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

2010-11-10T01:05:00.000+08:00

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)

2010-11-10T01:04:00.000+08:00

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.

Thai Stamp Bulletin

2010-11-09T11:13:00.001+08:00

Thai Stamp Bulletin is published by Thailand Post on quarterly basis. Customer of Standing Order Deposit Account (SODA) get it free and deliver by airmail. For non customers, you can subscribe to it with a minimum fee of THB 40.00 only (approx. RM4.20 to cover for the postage). Printed in color and in Thai and English.

For those who interested, can contact:
Postage Stamps and Philately Department
Thailand Post Co., Ltd.
111 M.3 Changwattana Road, Laksi,
Bangkok 10210-0299,
Thailand.

Singapore Stamp Bulletin - Miniature World

2010-11-09T11:10:00.000+08:00

Miniature World is published by Singapore Post, it only available to all Standing Order customers for Free. Nevertheless, you can download the soft-copy for free at http://www.singpost.com/.

You also can view the latest "Issue 83" at:

http://www.singpost.com/downloads/MW83.pdf

Keretapi Tanah Melayu (KTM 125 Years Anniversary) - Issued 22.06.10

2010-11-09T11:09:00.000+08:00

Bangkok 2010 Overprint and Miniature sheet.

Mint stamps.

Booklet front cover.

Narrative inside the booklet.

Booklet stamps (printed in strip of 10 stamps, with 5 designs).

This is a beautiful set of train stamps issued by Pos Malaysia on 22 Jun 10. The overprint MS is in limited quantity. In total, there are 8 different stamps and 1 miniature sheet.

Thailand Blind Education

2010-11-08T15:14:00.000+08:00

Thailand Post issued a single commemorative stamp with Braille code embossed on the stamp. Similar to our Pos Malaysia "Caring Society" last year issued. You can read more here: http://funstamps.blogspot.com/2009/12/malaysia-caring-society-unicef-issued-9.html. Personally, this stamp worth to collect for the special Braille designed. I don't have time to decode the Braille code, if you know, please share with me.

Medical Breakthroughs - 16.09.10 (Royal Mail, UK)

2010-11-07T16:25:00.001+08:00

The design of these stamps are simply beautiful, with fine illustrations of human organs. Narrative printed on the information card:

"Over the past century, British medicine has undergone dramatic transformations - scientific, political, financial and social. The challenges of mass health care, the pressures of war, the hazards and opportunities of the global pharmaceutical industry; all have created a setting in which scientific and technological breakthroughs have revolutionized the way we think about medicine, health, illness and the body".

The stamps: Heart regulating beta blockers, Antibiotic properties of penicillin, Total hip replacement operation, Artificial lens implant surgery, Malaria and mosquitoes and Computed tomography scanner.

Indonesia Singapore Joint Stamp Issue - 28.10.09

2010-11-07T16:25:00.000+08:00

Shown above are the Indonesia and both countries stamps on the Joint Issue FDC.

Malaysia Korea Joint Issue - 23.02.10 (Tiger)

2010-11-07T16:24:00.000+08:00

Joint issue cover with both Malaysia and Korean stamps.

1Malaysia Collection - 10.11.10 (Forthcoming issue)

2010-11-04T20:27:00.002+08:00

Pos Malaysia will issue a new series of 1Malaysia collection stamps. With 4 denominations, i.e. 30c x 2 and 50c x 2 on this coming Wednesday, 10 Nov 10. Besides stamps, a set of 4 postcards will be issued as well (RM4 per set) plus Folder and FDC.

I believe Pos Malaysia hear most of the collectors comments, this issue is not expensive (RM1.60 per set) and the stamp design is very creative, it's combined traditional handicraft (such as Wau and Songket) with modern development and technologies (such as space exploration and multimedia). These creative element can be seen from the pictorial postmark. Well, no doubt the design partner is from our well known LimKokWing University.

I believe these stamps has been designed and approved before the new tariff, rightfully, for convenience standard letter rate, it should have 60c denomination. Well, this is just my opinion and personally I like the design very much. While our country have high aspirations to move forward to be a developed nation, we should preserve and maintain our heritages and cultures. These is what the stamp is trying to send this message to everyone.

Firefly - 10.05.10 (Section 17, PJ postmark)

2010-11-04T17:32:00.000+08:00

This FDC brought in Section 17, PJ post office. It is located in the shopping mall (Jaya One). Thus, it is open until 8pm at night (if I recalled correctly). The cancellation is clear, I love this postmark.

Garden Flowers New Tariff Definitive - 01.07.10 (Puchong postmark)

2010-11-04T17:25:00.002+08:00

This is the new tariff definitive issued. Brought it from Puchong post office in the evening. For those who is busy on the issue day, post offices operating in the shopping mall provided a good alternative to collectors. Unfortunately, the FDI postmark is not well maintain, it appeared slightly oval shape instead of round cancellation. Hence, you may not want to go this post office for FDC.

Grand Knight of Valour - 31.07.10 (KLCC postmark)

2010-11-04T17:16:00.000+08:00

Pos Malaysia issued these stamps to commemorate our national hero. I brought this at KLCC post office. The pictorial postmark is very beautiful. Some tips for beginner, please note the 60c stamp is not cancelled. This is actually not a good FDC. All stamps affixed must be cancelled, this include miniature sheet, where not only the stamp within, but the sheet is cancelled together with the cover. So, next time when you purchase a FDC from a dealer or make for yourself, make sure the postmark is clear, especially the date of issue and all the stamps are cancelled.

Great British Railway - 19.08.10 (Train thematic)

2010-11-03T17:06:00.000+08:00

This is a great design train stamp by Royal Mail, with chosen black and white as the theme, it resembling the past glory of the train transportation in the United Kingdom. Refer to the information card for more details.

2010 FIFA World Cup - Indonesia 01.05.10

2010-11-03T16:55:00.000+08:00

I brought this FDC when I visited Medan early this year. Went to the main post office, the staff invited me to a small store room that stored all the current and previous philatelic materials. I am not collecting Indonesia stamps, but I found few thematic stamps that interest me, one of them is this FIFA World Cup issued. Nothing special for this cover, they still sell old issued FDCs, cancelled with designated postmark (above is Bandung postmark).

The good thing I can share here is all recent Indonesian FDC printed with control series number at the back, where this is the running printing quantity (see above) and it is limited to 4000 for this issue. In my opinion, this is consider low compared to the Indonesia populations, I do not know how many percent is stamp collector. Anyway, in my opinion, this is a good feature and I do hope Pos Malaysia do consider this or at least publish the quantity printed information to collectors. The cover also come with an information leaflet.

Australia Songbirds - Issued 09.09.09

2010-11-02T16:07:00.000+08:00

Australian songbirds is a stunning issued in 2009. It attracted many birds thematic collectors to own these master piece illustrated by the Australian wildlife artist, Christopher Pope. He is also the illustrator for this year "Australian Kingfishers" stamps issue. (http://www.stamps.com.au/shop/stamps/australian-kingfishers).

Above shown is the stamp pack product with brief narrative below:

"Australia is home to an estimated 750 species of birds, the most prevalent group among them being the songbirds. There are 65 to 70 families of songbird worldwide – some of which are sub-oscine rather than true songbirds – with around 33 found in Australia, only one of which is a sub-oscine."

Further reading on Songbirds related philatelic products, see page 4:

http://www.stamps.com.au/assets/document/1250027286-bulletin300_high.pdf

Australia Stamp Bulletin

2010-11-02T15:29:00.005+08:00

Previously I highlighted Malaysia, Canada and Britain philatelic bulletins, it is an official philatelic publication publish by country's postal authority. Mainly to promote new stamps issue and usually it is given free to all collectors or standing order deposit account (SODA) holder. Above shown is the Australia Stamp Bulletin for issue no. 306, Oct 2010 (with sample page). For beginner or those who have not subscribed to it, please do so. It is free, printed in color and full of information. Published both print and online copy. Issue bi-monthly. To register or download a copy, go to below link:

http://www.stamps.com.au/collectors/publications

Please note Australia Post published 2 editions of bulletin, for adult and children (named Stamp Explorer).

Happy readings! Get one for your kids and promote this healthy hobby or simply enhance their common knowledge.

P/S: If you do follow my blog, most of my postings added with the "How To" elements to try my best to disseminate and pass down the knowledge for those who want to pick up this hobby. Through sharing to help others to truly enjoy this hobby. Issue no. 307 for Nov-Dec'10 is available online, get your copy now to obtain the first hand information on this year Christmas stamps - "Dear Santa".

Heritage of Pahang Souvenir Cover - 25 Oct 2010 (Part 2)

2010-10-29T17:59:00.000+08:00

For Part 2 of this article, shown above are FDCs cancelled on 25 Oct 2010, with Counter Postmark from Kelana Jaya, Puchong Jaya and Jalan Semangat, PJ post office. I called this as souvenir cover due to the date is not FDI. For the last cover, it bear both 24 and 25 Oct cancellations (front and back). I don't know how we named this cover. This is the confusing part for collectors. I did it to record this issuing scenario.

Worth to mention that Puchong Jaya post office opened on 24 Oct, the FDI cancellation provided on Sunday. Nevertheless, it still sell FDC on Monday to cater for those who cannot make it on actual day, but the cancellation is strictly on 25 Oct with Counter postmark, which I am fully agreed.

The only setback is cancel using counter postmark is very hard to get a perfect clear cancellation. Therefore, if you plan to do it, better have more than one in case the first one is not completely clear or satisfy you. Another thing to mention is the stamps for this issue is unusually large. Overall, it is an interesting journey to make these covers.

Heritage of Pahang First Day Cover - 24 Oct 2010 (Part 1)

2010-10-29T01:25:00.000+08:00

Pos Malaysia issued a set of new postage stamp - "Heritage of Pahang" on the 24 Oct 2010. It was fall on Sunday. Hence, only selected post shop will open on Sunday for FDC servicing. That is those located in shopping mall, hypermarket such as Tesco, Giant, etc that open 7 days a week.

For those post office that is closed on Sunday, the stamps only officially sold on Monday and the FDC postmark was backdated. This create an interesting scenario where your FDC rightfully should be cancelled on the actual release date, not the next day. In order to captured this special scenario, collectors that purchased the FDC on Monday, i.e. 25 Oct 10, can mail their FDC to get the 25 Oct cancellation or request to cancel the FDC over the counter with the normal circular postmark (if you don't want to mail it). In addition, have the backdated FDC postmark cancellation. I do not know how you define this type of cover (with 2 dates postmarks), but certainly it create lot of confusion among collectors. It is best Pos Malaysia can avoid such issuing plan in the future. (this happen due to in conjunction with sultan's 80th birthday) .

Beside having 2 different dates cancellation on the FDC, if you purchased it on the 25 Oct (Monday), you also got the opportunity to create a Souvenir Cover for this issue. That is only service with the normal circulate cancellation on 25 Oct. I will show these 2 type of configurations in my following posting.

The first FDC shown above is the FDI (First Day of Issue) cancellation, with Official Pictorial Postmark from "Kelana Jaya" post office (for non-Malaysian collectors, FYI, only the post office name is change, the pictorial remain the same on the postmark. Other large post offices servicing pictorial cancellation are of course the GPO in each state, KLCC, Kelana, Jaya and few more).

The 2nd one is the normal circular First Day of Issue postmark from ordinary post office. I serviced this from "Jalan Semangat, PJ" post office. I particularly love these circular FDI cancellation, even it is plain. I believe FDC with these cancellation is much less than the pictorial one. Especially for those small and remote post offices.

I am not keen on Malaysian royalty stamps (in fact is my least favorite), I brought few of these FDCs for the purpose of recording the above date events.

"Post and Go" Birds ATM Stamp - UK

2010-10-28T15:36:00.001+08:00

Royal Mail released a well anticipated Birds pictorial ATM stamps on 17 Sep 2010. The FDC is affixed with pre-printed 1st Class stamps. The stamps shown in this cover are the first in the series of "Post and Go", features six birds commonly seen in UK gardens.

I am not the expert in "Variable Value Stamps", so I will not touch on the technicality of the printed labels and also do not have access to the self service machine to experience the purchase. Nevertheless, this FDC added nicely to my birds thematic collections. You can obtain more information from British Philatelic Bulletin, there are details highlight on the design of the stamps, description of each bird and the technical information. There are also plenty of UK's blog articulating this issue.

Some brief history of ATM stamps highlighted on the FDC information card:

Post Office Limited first trialled a new generation of self service postage machine in 2008. New machine manufactured by Wincor Nixdorf were installed in approximately 80 Crown Offices. The initial design used for the self-adhesive stamps, which are overprinted with the postage on demand, featured the profile of the Queen created by Arnold Machin and used on UK definitive stamps.

British Philatelic Bulletin

2010-10-28T11:12:00.001+08:00

Bulletin is an important source of information for collectors. Among many bulletin published by the postal authority around the world, British Philatelic Bulletin is regarded as one of the longest history and highest in quality and contents. This bulletin is not Free of Charge, you can subscribe with a reasonable costs, i.e. £1.20 per issue (approximately RM6) on a monthly basis. The above shown is the latest edition, covering coming issue of Christmas stamps and more. Of course the contents are mainly in UK philately, if you are into British stamps, I recommend you to get a copy. World wide airmail subscription is £17.95 per year (approximately RM90).

You can order it online at Royal Mail Shop. The link below:

http://www.royalmail.com/portal/stamps/jump1?catId=32200669&mediaId=51000703

US Postmark

2010-10-27T11:44:00.000+08:00

Recently received postally used stamps from USA.

Self Faded Malaysia ATM (Variable Value) Stamps?

2010-10-27T01:26:00.000+08:00

ATM gradually faded, period stored approximately 1 year (from 30 Dec 09).

Newly purchased ATM to show the original condition of the label (21 Oct 10).

I purchased the top two ATM labels when PAM (Postal Automated Machine) was launched end last year in GPO, KL. I am not very sure what is the actual reasons that promote the fading of the label. I stored 2 sets separately in the small packet, one pack together with the "Printed Receipt" generated by the PAM machine (which is a thermal paper similar to fax paper). Another one without the receipt.

The pack without the receipt that intact with the labels still in good condition, whereas the other was not. I strongly believe it was due to the thermal paper. Not on UV light, humidity, acid on paper or improper storage. The printing of the thermal receipt paper faded badly as the labels.

Some countries used high quality paper for printing "Variable Value" stamps (ATM), which it can withstand longer period without conservation. I am not sure the quality of paper that Pos Malaysia used. Time will proof this and definitely it can't last forever like stamp as the printing mechanism is different.

I'm tempting to keep the receipt as a proof of purchased, where it clearly described the transaction date, time, branch Id, machine Id, quantity and amount paid. I shouldn't keep it together with the labels. I worry this small receipt will lost. So I packed it together. Bad decision, only realized after 1 year.

For ATM collectors, it is advisable you keep the thermal receipt far far away, if you intend to keep them for future reference. For sample receipt, you can read my article written last year at below:

http://funstamps.blogspot.com/2009/12/postal-automated-machine-label-pam.html

Anyway, I am not fancy on ATM stamps, I'm not chasing the new machine implemented at which post office, or for the error and varieties. I wasted almost RM30 on my initial purchased. To avoid total lost, I try to use it for normal mailing. But high value like RM1 or RM2 is almost hard to find opportunity to post locally.

On the last part of this posting, I share some of my own observation of the design of these label. In my opinion, I find it not too practical due to the size are too large to be pasted on the small cover. The design shouldn't have "Circular Postmark" image printed onto the label. This make the mailing processing staffs confuse whether to cancel the label or not. I did a study on this, out of 10 covers I posted back to myself, there are 30% of it is not cancelled. If you used together with conventional stamp, the staff only cancelled the stamp but not the ATM label. Further education and awareness are needed within the Pos Malaysia staffs or perhaps change the design to avoid public reuse the label and causing revenue lost.

Lastly, the design look very plain, if pictorial motif is apply, these labels will be more interesting and colorful. My next article will show you the Royal Mail UK recent released on "Post and Go" birds pictorial ATM labels.

Singapore Postmark

2010-10-26T12:06:00.000+08:00

Clear postmark cancellation. C 4 mean Counter 4.

Battersea Cats and Dogs Home - UK FDC (Issued 11 Mar 10)

2010-10-26T11:35:00.001+08:00

Royal Mail released this stamps on 11 Mar 10. Commemorate the "Battersea Home" for Lost and Starving Dogs and Cats. A charity aims to provide needs for the animals, reunites lost dogs and cats with their owners. All the 10 stamps illustrated the rehomed and rescued dogs and cats by "Battersea Home". They are Boris, Pixie, Casey, Tigger, Herbie, Leonard and etc. The denomination is 1st Local (for domestic mail), printed in a setenant strip of 10 stamps. The stamp is simply adorable and lovely. Is a good addition to your Animal Thematic Collections.

Royal Mail First Day Cover (FDC) is printed with personalized address. There is no delivery charges for FDC send worldwide (save your shipping costs, thus, no need to buy from a dealer). Please note that you can not order FDC after the released date. You can order online at Royal Mail Shop at http://www.royalmail.com/portal/rm/shop?catId=9300091

The latest issued was on 12 Oct 10, "Winnie the Pooh", another great addition for Cartoon Thematic collector. And the next coming issue is on 2 Nov 10, "Christmas with Wallace and Gromit".

In the next posting, I will show you how to register to receive Royal Mail periodicals, this is very useful for beginner who want to read more on the stamp issuing subjects, not merely collect the stamps and need not worry on missing any future issues by opening a deposit account and buy direct from Royal Mail UK instead of paying premium to eBay sellers or stamp dealers.

Putrajaya Mail Center

2010-10-18T11:53:00.000+08:00

Putrajaya Mail Center is located at Precinct 2, opposite "Palace of Justice" building. For those who want to obtain Putrajaya postmark, you can mail your letter at the letter box in front of the office.

News Flash - Kaspersky and Pos Malaysia Launched 1Malaysia Special Edition Stamp Booklet (Dec, 2009)

2010-10-18T11:30:00.000+08:00

For all to see: (From left) Director of TechLane Resources Sdn Bhd CH Tan, chief operating officer of PosNiaga Datuk Mearia Hamzah, Philatelic Society of Malaysia president VT Nathan and Cheung with the set of stamps.

Kaspersky Lab, a leading developer of secure content management solutions and POS Malaysia have joined forces to promote the 1Malaysia Concept conceived by the Prime Minister by making limited edition collectable 1Malaysia stamps available to Malaysians while educating them on internet security and the investment potential of limited edition stamps.

The limited edition Kaspersky stamps are rare and will increase in value, giving our customers possible investment pieces that they can choose to sell or hold on to for more gains in value.”

The series will be made available to the first 50 Kaspersky Lab customers at each of the Pikom PC Fair held nationwide in December and will also be offered as prizes at the Kuala Lumpur leg of the information technology fair. The stamps will be available nationwide until January 2010 only.

News partially extracted from "The Star", 8 Dec 09 newspaper for reader's benefit. Photo and article are copyright by The Star. To read full article, please go to:

http://thestar.com.my/metro/story.asp?file=/2009/12/8/central/5243122&sec=central

New Zealand Letter

2010-10-15T10:56:00.000+08:00

A letter received from New Zealand Philatelic Federation Inc. Affixed with beautiful birds stamps and a frama label.

New Calendonia Postmark

2010-10-14T17:08:00.000+08:00

This is a Christmas greetings card I received from New Calendonia post office in 1994. The cards sent to all it's customers with a complementary postage stamp with special Christmas postmark. I am not sure this can be considered part of the philatelic item, but it certainly warm my heart when I received it. Wonder if our Pos Malaysia will do the same to all SODA customers. A small token that will generate bigger milestones in promoting philately and stamp business.
Well, you may wonder where is New Calendonia? It is part of a French territories, comprises of islands located in the southwest Pacific Ocean. For details, you may refer to the Internet for its rich French's influential and uniqueness of culture.

Hong Kong Postmark Series

2010-10-14T10:39:00.000+08:00

This is an old pictorial postmark I found in my stack of old letters. Hong Kong 1997 Stamp Exhibition. Posted from Kowloon, Hong Kong on 7am, 11 Jan 1997. Noticed the Queen Elizabeth II definitive stamp was used, 6 six months prior to the Hong Kong, sovereignty from UK transferred to mainland China on 1 July 1997. After the transferred, there was a new set of definitive stamps replaced the Queen series. Nevertheless, the Queen series still valid for postage. Red color postbox with "ER II" symbol gradually replaced with the new designed green color post box.

Malaysia Pictorial Postmark Series

2010-10-14T10:35:00.000+08:00

"Sudahkah anda mendaftar sebagai pemilih? Pendaftaran Pemilih dibuka mulai 9 Mei hingga 19 Jan 2000." I used Google to translate this from Malay to English. The result is "Have you registered as a voter? Voter registration is open from 9 May to January 19, 2000". This letter postmark dated 2 Jun 2000 (Bukit Raja), that was within the voter registration period.

Registered Letter from former Soviet Union (CCCP) - Part 3

2010-10-13T15:58:00.004+08:00

Another similar Soviet Union letter. This letter sent on 24 Nov 1989 from Moscow and received on 8 Dec 1989, Kuala Lumpur. The back side of this cover is badly infected by fungus due to long period and not keep in proper storage. The front side of the cover looked fine. The mailing rate was 150k with registered airmail and heavier weight than the standard letter.
A common pictorials can be found in Soviet's stamps are space related topics, sports and famous communist figure such as Valdimir Lenin. With Soviet's interesting history, cold war, revolution, it's rich communist development and finally collapsed and dissolved. It is worth to study USSR through philately.

Airmail Letter from Soviet Union (CCCP)

2010-10-13T15:37:00.003+08:00

This is the airmail letter sent from Soviet Union in 1990. I was writing a letter to the USSR Philatelic Bureau on opening a Standing Order Deposit Account. Unfortunately, the company not entertained foreign individual collector. The above shown is the standard weight letter rate at 50k, with franking postage and a hand stamped Par Avion (Airmail) postmark.

Registered Letter from former Soviet Union (CCCP) - Part 2

2010-10-13T15:21:00.002+08:00

Another similar cover from Soviet Union. Date sent was 19 Oct 1990 from Moscow. Received on 11 Nov 1990 at Kuala Lumpur mail center, next day dispatched to Sungai Besi (postmark not very clear) post office on 12 Nov 1990. Notice the hand stamped "Recommande", meaning Registered Letter.

Registered Letter from former Soviet Union (CCCP) - Part 1

2010-10-12T17:40:00.005+08:00

This is the Registered letter I received 20 years ago from Soviet Union (USSR - Union of Soviet Socialist Republics or abbreviated as CCCP). Date received 9 Feb 1990, with Kuala Lumpur circular date postmark. Date sent from Moscow was 28 Jan 1990. It took approximately 2 weeks via registered airmail. The postage rate was 1.5 Ruble (or 150 kopeks, 3 stamps with 50k each). For standard weight letter, only cost 50k during that time.

Then why it was 3 times higher than the standard weight rate? It is because it contained a lot of stamps inside this cover :-) 20 years ago, when I am still a student, I actively into pen pal for exchanging stamps and postcards. There is no Postcrossing that time, no Internet, one common way of acquiring postally used cover is through pen pal.

I also wrote to almost all the philatelic bureau around the world to get new issues information, bulletins and in the later stage, with many years of efforts, I compiled a valuable list of Philatelic Bureau addresses worldwide. I learned the world map through these interesting and fun process. After 2 decades, when I looked back the list, there are many changes in the world map, Soviet Union is no longer appear and separated into many countries such as Russia, Ukraine and Kazakhstan. New country independence such as East Timor. Hong Kong and Macau returned to Mainland China, Yugoslavia dissolved and many more.

Today, with a simple Google search, you can download these address list effortlessly. You can even go to respective philatelic bureau website to check for new issue information and place order online. This is the power of today technology. Collectors today can leverage FaceBook, Blog, online Forum, Postcrossing to make new friends, exchanging covers, postcards and stamps.

The above cover shown is the pre-stamped enveloped, with a printed 50k stamp and airmail label. The registration label is indicated by the hand stamped rectangular postmark. These simple cover bring back lot of my youth day memories.

I will post few more similar covers in my later posting.

To view details, click the cover for enlarge viewing.

Bukit Raja Rectangular Postmark

2010-10-11T17:18:00.003+08:00

Found this postmark while cleaning up my old covers. I publish it since it is not too often we seen a rectangular postmark.

Bangkok 2010 Singapore MS - Year of the Tiger Overprint

2010-10-11T17:14:00.004+08:00

New posts, new ideas for the coming months

2010-10-04T17:35:00.005+08:00

After stop blogging for few months, or perhaps longer, I can't recall. I will continue to post more articles, new presentation format in my blog. Despite busy workload, I have gathered some interesting items and some new ideas crossing my mind on how to make this blog better and interesting.

Stay tune and happy collecting.

P/S:
Previously, there are many Spam comments affected my article. I removed and cleaned it. All Spam are reported to Blogger.

Post Office Series - Australia

2010-03-24T01:04:00.005+08:00

Post offices found in city center and country side in Australia.

Post Box Series - Australia

2010-03-24T00:42:00.010+08:00

Various post box designed found in Melbourne and Sydney, Australia.

Malaysia Tax Cover, Tax Notice (Surat Terdenda) and Postage Due

2010-01-15T15:41:00.025+08:00

I posted few write-up previously on Malaysia tax cover. In this article, I go into more details on Tax cover processing, Tax Notice (Surat Terdenda) and usage of postage due stamps.

When someone send you a mail with insufficient postage or used non-standard size letter, POS Malaysia will tax (penalty) on this letter.

Current mailing regulation for standard size letter for domestic of up to 20 grams is 30c. For non-standard size letter is 50c. Refer to the above 2 tax covers, one is standard size and the tax amount is 60c (30c x 2). Thus, post staff will affixed 3 x 20c postage due stamps. This letter was mailed without postage stamp.

For the second non-standard size letter, the tax amount is RM1 (50c x 2).

When the sender sent out the letter, either he forget to affix stamp due to bulk mailing or the stamp not affixed properly and got peeled off during transit, processing or sorting.

This letter was originated from Selangor, thus, it will route to Bukit Raja Mailing Processing Center. For Kuala Lumpur address, it will process at GPO, Dayabumi (if I got it right).

From Bukit Raja Processing Center [state], it will cancelled with Tax postmark if found to be insufficient postage. Sorted and sent to Cawangan Serahan Puchong (Puchong Mail Dispatch Center) [district] and the staff will prepare a Tax Notice (Surat Terdenda, shown above front and back) with a correspond number on the notice card and the letter (in this example, it was written 23 for the non standard size letter). This Tax notice will then be delivered to the recipient address.

If the recipient need to claim the letter, he or she is required to bring along this tax notice to the stated dispatch center. The post staff will refer to the number (23) on the notice card and retrieve the letter accordingly.

The post staff will paste the postage due stamps (by referring to the stated tax postmark amount), cancelled it and collect the due amount from the recipient.

The last photo shown post office staffs were busy working at Puchong Mail Processing Center and the example of 20c and 50c postage due stamps in block of four (printed by Security Printer Malaysia). Please note this stamps are not valid for postage and not for sales.

You can view more tax covers in my previous posts:

http://funstamps.blogspot.com/2009/12/malaysia-tax-covers-commercial-mail.html

http://funstamps.blogspot.com/2009/12/malaysia-tax-covers-commercial-and.html

http://funstamps.blogspot.com/2009/09/postmark.html

If you want to know more on the postage rate, click here to read:

http://www.pos.com.my/v1/main2.asp?c=/v1/tariff/Mail/Letterdb.asp&kemana=Domestic&bang=Select+one&airmail=Select+one&berat=10&submit1=Submit

China - Dog Issued - Recess Printing

2010-01-15T01:00:00.009+08:00

China still often printing it stamps using recess method and combined with Photogravure method to create recess with multi-color effects in stamps.

Recess printing is done from engraved plates. The printing is finely detailed with crisp lines, and the ink is slightly raised from the surface of the paper.

For Photogravure, it is an intaglio printmaking process in which photographic images are printed using forms of mechanised etching of plates.

This stamps issued in year 2006 with 4 stamps of 80c. Printed by Beijing Stamp Printer.

Click the stamp to see the fine engraved line texture.

150th Anniversary of Railways in Australia

2010-01-15T00:49:00.005+08:00

Australia steam power railway stamps, photo taken from presentation pack. Stamps in setenant format of five 50c, design by Australia Post Design Studio.

Singapore - Year of the Tiger 2010

2010-01-15T00:37:00.007+08:00

Singapore Post continue to issue it Chinese Lunar Year series for 2010, Year of The Tiger. This is the second series of Lunar stamps (each series with 12 cycle animal signs). Issued date is 8 Jan 2010, with 3 denominations: 1st Local, 65c and $1.10.

Unissued Malaya Stamp - 1959 and 1960 (Newsflash)

2009-12-26T16:09:00.016+08:00

This were the 2 stamps planned but unable to release during year 1959 and 1960.

The first stamp (vertical format) was to commemorate the installation of the Yang Di-Pertuan Agong II (second king) of Sultan Selangor in 1 Sept 1960. Stamp designed in grey color as background, 10c and printed in UK. His Majesty passed away at Istana Tetamu in Kuala Lumpur on 1 Sept 1960, the day fixed for his installation. Therefore, the stamp was not release.

The second stamp (horizontal format) was planned to issue in 27 Nov 1959 to commemorate the 25th Anniversary of Accession of the sultan of Negri Sembilan. The country name was Malaya at that time and the stamp designed in red as background, printed in Holland. Denomination is 10c. This stamp was unable to issue due to His Majesty passed away.

NZ Post Recycle Envelope - Save the Planet!

2009-12-26T15:33:00.019+08:00

This envelope produced by NZ post for business mailing. The interesting part of this

envelope is designed to be reusable (recycle). The first figure shown the front envelope with Reusable logo. The second figure shown the back side of the envelope. To open the envelope, follow the instruction to tear off the red color paper strip (with arrow sign).

This back side will become the front side when reusing this envelope for mailing. The last 2 figure shown the envelope after tearing off the red paper strip. I do hope other organizations will start using this type of reusable envelope to save our planet.

Kudos to NZ Post for this move.

News Flash: NZ Year of the Tiger 2010

2009-12-21T23:56:00.009+08:00

Introducing a new posting of my blog to cover new flash (new issue news). In the first posting is celebrating the Chinese New Year - Year of the Tiger 2010. To be issue by New Zealand Post on 6 Jan 2010, with 4 denominations. Above picture and narrative are extract from NZ Post bulletin. For more details and order this stamps, you can go online at http://www.nzpost.co.nz/stamps

Malaysia Tax Covers - Commercial Mail

2009-12-21T23:29:00.003+08:00

Commercial letter sent without affixed 30c postage. The tax amount is 60c. With a blue postmark "T" stated 30c is the mailing rate and 60c is the tax/penalty. But without any postage due stamps affixed.

Return To Sender Letter - Australia

2009-12-10T17:28:00.011+08:00

Due to insufficient address, this letter was return to the sender. Notice Australia Post affixed a special label to notify the sender on the reason why this letter can't deliver.

Postal Automated Machine Label (PAM) - Malaysia

2009-12-04T23:54:00.014+08:00

Malaysia new issued of Postal Automated Machine label, in short, PAM. This is to replace the long overdue frame label machine located at GPO, KL. Sadly, the previous 2 Frama label machines were not expanding after introducing more then 10 years ago. I still recalled it started off with 2 machines located at GPO and towards the end, only one was operating and after some time, it has been removed and discontinued.

After this, some post offices located in shopping mall were installed with a so-called converted soft drinks vending machine to sell stamps booklet, aerogramme, postcard and registered cover. It is operating exactly like a soft drink machine, choose the postal item from the screen, insert coin and press the button to get the item. It is not a frama label machine but objective is to serve as a self automated kind of concept to the public during off office hour to purchase stamps only. Personally, I find it kind of outdated and not really an integrated post office functionality machine.

Well, it is great to know Pos Malaysia finally implemented a modern PAM machine. I do hope it will expand to nationwide and not only located at post offices, but at tourist locations, shopping center, subway stations, high populated office and commercial building in the city center.

Apparently, for a start, only one PAM machine installed in GPO, located at the main hall counters, in a dedicated glass room.

In fact, our neighboring country, Singapore already have PAM more then 10 years ago and the features and functionalities are expanding through out the years. It is very advanced and rich in features and easily accessible in post offices, MRT stations, shopping malls, etc. The machine is called S.A.M (Self-service Automated Machine). You can buy frama label from this machine and other similar functions available in our PAM. But S.A.M. integrated with bill payment, bank transactions, and fine as well. Best of all, it is available island wide.

Back to our PAM, the above image shown the complete set of PAM label you can purchased. The denominations are prefixed, that is 30c, 40c, 50c, RM1 and RM2. Of course, you have the flexibility to enter your own denominations.

The machine accepted coins and banknote and it will provide change. A receipt will be printed after successfully paid the amount due. The postage label printed a serial number with the following conventions:

001 - Machine Id

301109 - Date in DDMMYY

0018 - 4 digits running number

On the left side of the label, printed horizontally - "Valid For Postage". This only available in the 2nd issued and the first issued do not have this text printed.

The PAM label can be used at any time after purchased, not necessary must be used at the same day and at GPO only.

I purchased the PAM label and mailed it after few days in other post office. I received the letter safely, see the first image above. Cancelled by Bukit Raja Mail Center in Selangor. The label is cancelled and can't be reused. It served no different like a postage stamp.

Lastly, congratulation to Pos Malaysia for implementing PAM and I do hope it will make PAM at our convenience anytime and anywhere.

Malaysia Tax Covers - Commercial and Private Mail

2009-12-04T23:42:00.009+08:00

Above is the Tax cover processed in Bukit Raja Mail Center, with triangular T (Tax) postmark with black ink. It is sent from commercial mailing. No penalty incurred and no postage due stamps affixed.

Below is the Tax cover processed in Bandar Baru Bangi Mail Center, with larger T (Tax) postmark with red ink. It is sent from a private mailing. No penalty incurred as well and no postage due stamps affixed.

1 Malaysia Postmark

2009-12-04T23:38:00.004+08:00

Postmark: Bukit Raja 01

Malaysia - Caring Society - unicef (Issued: 9 Oct 09)

2009-12-02T16:13:00.011+08:00

Post Malaysia lately input new design feature into new issue, which is welcome by all collectors and is definitely a good approach. In this unicef Caring Society stamps, Braille code being embossed onto the RM1 stamp.

Braille is a worldwide system used by blind and visually impaired people for reading and writing. Braille is read by passing the fingers over characters made up of an arrangement of one to six embossed points. It has been adapted to almost every known language. Braille is invented by Louis Braille in 1821, more then a century ago.

I scanned both sides of the RM1 stamp to have a close up image on the Braille cells. I do a quick check on the Internet to look for a reference Braille table, I managed to translate the meaning as "RM#1", which is RM1 (One Ringgit). Please note you need to refer to the Braille cell on the front of the stamp (not the back, refer to first stamp image).

I personally like the design very much, the design image is simple yet effectively send the message across on child caring. With vivid color used on the children image and appeared on the white background, it make the subject stand out, make public aware and care for the unfortunate.

On the RM1 design, children playing and running with the rainbow as background, symbolizes bright future and the Braille embossed count on the blind and visually impaired people.

Malaysia State Definitive Series Collection - Garden Flowers (FDC by denominations)

2009-12-02T15:44:00.013+08:00

Officially or by standard practice, most collectors will make their FDC by state, i.e. 14 different miniature sheets on 14 covers, with different state postmarks. Which I highlighted in my previous post.

Since definitive is hardly issue, especially the previous issue used for more then 20 years, thus, I take this rare opportunity to make the FDC by denominations, with total of 84 stamps. That's 14 stamps per denomination per cover, total 6 covers (5c, 10c, 20c, 30c, 40c and 50c).

In order to do this, I break the stamp from the miniature sheet (this is not really a good guideline to make FDC) and pasted onto the cover. For each FDC, I only have one state cancellation, this make sense and valid as I brought the full set of stamps and cancelled the cover at say "Kuching" post office, in Sarawak.

Anyway, is just a personal preference on making your own FDC and have fun enjoying it.

Malaysia State Definitive Series Collection - Garden Flowers (Issued: 24 Nov 09)

2009-12-02T15:03:00.013+08:00

This is a special collector edition for the current state definitive: "Garden Flower" series. All the 6 denominations printed in a miniature sheet, i.e.: 5c, 10c, 20c, 30c, 40c and 50c. This is a reprint series with more vivid color as compared to the previous issued. Except for state Negeri Sembilan, which the Sultan portrait was the current reign. The rest remain no changed.

The complete set is 14 pieces of miniature sheets (total 14 states/federal territories in Malaysia).

Definitive series re-issued in miniature format is not something new and there are other countries have the same practice, such as Hong Kong and Singapore.

Shown above is the selected sample of 2 states; The Kedah state with the sultan portrait plus state emblem below and the Sarawak state with the state emblem (no sultan for this state).

For the First Day Cover (FDC), I shown another 2 different state, on the top is the Negeri Sembilan state with the new sultan portrait (this is the official FDC used in this issue) and below is the FDC for the state of Sabah, which is similar to Sarawak, only state emblem printed (no sultan). This is the past issued FDC use for this issue. The reason being was due to post office was shortage of the current FDC, thus, it was selling the old design cover at the post office counter in order to meet the demand of the collectors. As long as the stamps and postmarks are officially cancelled, there is no argument on the making of FDC with different design cover. It is still a valid FDC.

Therefore, a complete set of FDC will have 14 covers, each with different state's postmark. Since I went to the GPO, Philatelic Bureau in Kuala Lumpur to make the FDC, I have the chance to make all the 14 states FDC and managed to have each of the postmark cancelled on a white piece of paper to show you the complete set of state postmarks. Postmark design is same except with different state city.

Stamp Bulletin - Malaysia (Year 1995, 96)

2009-11-17T01:47:00.003+08:00

Continuing my previous post on Malaysia Philatelic Bulletin early year collection, the above copies were published in 1995 and 96. The name has been changed to Malaysian Philatelic Bulletin (previously was Philatelic Bulletin). It was now printed in small handy booklet format and with more colorful contents.

Notice Pos Malaysia logo has changed.

To view Malaysia Philatelic Bulletin in the 80s, click this link: http://funstamps.blogspot.com/2009/07/stamp-bulletin-malaysia-early-year.html

Malaysia - 20c Pre-stamped Envelope, Flower Definitive Series

2009-11-17T01:29:00.008+08:00

Above shown Malaysia pre-stamped envelope with 20c flower definitive stamp (Federal Territory state stamp). The stamp was printed in red colour (different from the original gummed stamp, which was multi-color).

This cover was posted in 1995 and the mailing rate at that time was 20c for all domestic mail.

Malaysia Frama Label - Old Series (postally used in 1995)

2009-11-17T01:21:00.010+08:00

The two covers shown Malaysia first frama label, with 15c and 20c respectively. These cover posted in 1995, 14 years ago.

In the 90s, mail letter without seal was 15c and sealed letter was 20c.

The frama label was purchase at the GPO, Kuala Lumpur, frama vending machine with station number WP 001 (WP - Wilayah Persekutuan) [Federal Territory].

Blind Mail (Visually Impaired) Goes Free for Reading Matter - Malaysia

2009-11-17T01:10:00.006+08:00

Blind mail for blind people are free for all reading matter (with raised letters). Not required postage stamps. Above shown the blind mail (Orang Cacat Penglihatan - Urusan Orang Orang Buta) [in Bahasa Malaysia] sent from Kuala Lumpur, in year 2000. Signature appeared on the blue color Blind Mail rubber stamp.

Postally used stamps - Sweden

2009-10-26T02:34:00.003+08:00

Malaysia - Imperforated Miniature Sheet - Transportation

2009-10-26T02:16:00.004+08:00

Traditional Transportation, RM2, issued in 2004. Overprinted with 2004 Kuala Lumpur Stamp show.

Malaysia - Imperforated Miniature Sheet - Sport

2009-10-26T02:12:00.003+08:00

Hockey, KL 2002 World Cup, RM3, issued in 2002.

Malaysia - Imperforated Miniature Sheet - Marine Life

2009-10-26T02:06:00.002+08:00

Marine Life Series, RM3, issued in 2001.

Malaysia - Imperforated Miniature Sheet - Duck

2009-10-26T02:00:00.009+08:00

Wild duck species, RM2, issued in 2006.

Postally used stamps - Kiribati

2009-09-28T01:12:00.015+08:00

Kiribati, officially the Republic of Kiribati, is an island nation located in the central tropical Pacific Ocean.

Kiribati was named Gilbert Islands after the British Captain Thomas Gilbert, who sighted the islands in 1788.

The current name, Kiribati, is an adaptation of "Gilberts", from the former European name the "Gilbert Islands". (source: Wikipedia)

Postally used stamps - Mexico

2009-09-28T01:05:00.004+08:00

Recommended Book - Caring for your Stamp Collection

2009-09-28T00:51:00.005+08:00

This is a good book for those who is serious with their stamps collection, especially if you are collecting mint stamps. This book issued by Australia Post - Archives Section Australia Post Philatelic Group, many years ago. Revised edition 1994, ISBN 0-642-19829-2.

To care for your collection, primarily knowledge is to understand the different type of papers used in printing stamps, printing methods, ink used in printing, storage, and very important is the agents of deterioration. It also provides practical advice and guidelines on caring your valuable collections and walk you through on the production of Australian stamps and archival collection.

I am not sure this book is still available or any new edition being plan for release. Anyway, the ISBN number maybe helpful if you wish to look for this book in the library.

Postmark series - Hong Kong

2009-09-28T00:49:00.001+08:00

Post early for Christmas postmark.

Used preprinted stamp on cover and postcard - Malaysia

2009-09-28T00:44:00.005+08:00

Top image is used postcard with preprinted 20c stamp and affixed one 30c (50c for international postcard rate) and below image is preprinted cover with RM1 stamp.

Postally used stamps - recent collections

2009-09-28T00:33:00.017+08:00

USA - Bar code stamps

2009-09-28T00:29:00.006+08:00

US postage stamp with normal bar code (below) and 2D bar code (above).

Thailand - Recent issued

2009-09-28T00:27:00.002+08:00

Thailand - Kuan Yin (Issued date: 09-09-09)

2009-09-28T00:26:00.003+08:00

Postmark series

2009-09-27T01:01:00.006+08:00

The red postmark "T" indicated insufficient postage.

Thailand - Flower

2009-07-26T22:19:00.005+08:00

Postally used stamps

2009-07-26T22:14:00.007+08:00