KUCHING: Philately refers to the study of stamps and postal-related items. With the rise of technology-related pastimes, stamp collecting as a hobby may be a thing of the past.
However, Sarawak Education Department deputy director Abang Mat Ali Abang Masagus still thinks it a worthwhile activity which should be encouraged.
During his speech at the “Exhibition and Competition for Most Stamp Designs” (ReBeST) closing ceremony held at SMK Petra Jaya yesterday, he elaborated on the rich history of stamps.
“The history of stamps traces all the way back to May 1840 in the United Kingdom, from which point it began to expand to the rest of the world,” said Abang Mat Ali.
According to him, the history of stamps in Malaysia itself began with the country’s independence in 1957.
Abang Mat Ali admired the historical value of stamps in the state of Sarawak, saying, “Sarawak’s stamp history began during the era of Rajah Brooke. It continued through the Japanese occupation right to the formation of Malaysia in 1963.”
“So, it can be said that these invaluable stamps can reveal our state’s historical points,” he commented.
He recalled the time when the hobby mainly involved collecting and trading stamps among enthusiasts. Now, there exist groups such as the Stamp and Philately Club (KESEF) which draw members from schools and institutions of higher learning.
He strongly encouraged students to be involved in such co-curriculum activities with the guidance of their teachers.
