TO mark the 100th anniversary of the Penang Hill funicular system this year, the Penang Hill Corporation (PHC) has launched a complete set of commemorative stamps today.
The commemorative stamp sets will be available at selected post offices throughout Malaysia starting tomorrow (Aug 22) onwards at RM64.20 for each complete set.
The complete set includes a first-generation stamp sheet, a second-generation stamp sheet, a third-generation stamp sheet, a first day cover with stamp, a first day cover with a miniature sheet, a miniature sheet, a postcard and a folder.
PHC general manager Datuk Cheok Lay Leng said PHC and Pos Malaysia Berhad (Pos Malaysia) collaborated to make the project a reality.
“PHC and Pos Malaysia worked hard in producing the design of the stamps to ensure that all the unique elements of the Penang Hill funicular were incorporated in each design.
“The stamps also display all three generations of the Penang Hill funicular.
“The complete set is memorabilia and historical for future generations.
“I hope the public will not miss the opportunity to grab this limited-edition collection starting tomorrow!” Cheok said in his speech before Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow launched the commemorative stamp sets at the Penang Hill lower station today.
Also present were Penang State Secretary Datuk Mohd Sayuthi Bakar, state Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman Wong Hon Wai, Air Putih assemblyman Lim Guan Eng, Air Itam assemblyman Joseph Ng Soon Siang, Kebun Bunga assemblyman Lee Boon Heng and Pos Malaysia chief marketing and communications officer Fiona Liao.
Liao thanked PHC for the opportunity to collaborate.
She said the Penang Hill funicular stands as an enduring testament to Malaysia’s rich national heritage, an iconic symbol that bridges eras and generations.
“Today, we are here not only to acknowledge its century-long journey but also to commemorate its enduring legacy through a special collaboration between Pos Malaysia and PHC.
“The launch of this collection also stands as evidence of our collective dedication to preserving our nation’s heritage and celebrating its progress.
“We are extremely delighted to be able to encapsulate the railway’s history and its role in uniting generations in our complete set of commemorative stamps. They serve as a powerful reminder of our resilience and dedication to progress,” she said.
According to Chow, the Penang Hill funicular, a symbol of progress and unity, embarked on its inaugural journey on Oct 21 in 1923.
“Today, we stand at the threshold of its 100th year, reflecting on the memories, transformation, and unity it has brought to our community.
“This 100-year voyage is merely the opening chapter of a legacy that will continue to inspire generations to come,” he said.
Chow added that the launch of the complete set of commemorative stamps also stands as one of the main highlights of the centenary celebration of Penang Hill funicular.
“The collection captures and symbolises the significant moments of the Penang Hill Railway’s century-long journey.
“It also emphasises the importance of preserving and conserving its distinctive biodiversity, as well as its natural and historical heritage, for the benefit of future generations.
“With that in mind, it is important for us to commemorate this event through this commemorative stamp set, where the three generations of the funicular have been immortalised. Each stamp carries a piece of the past while celebrating the present,” he said.
Story by Riadz Akmal
Pix by Darwina Mohd Daud
Video by Law Suun Ting