The 2nd Series of Malaysian Coins

The coins is designed by Malaysian chinese Mr Low Yee Kheng who won the coin design contest organised by Bank Negara. The talented artist is now residing in Kuala Lumpur.

I bought this for RM28 include postage

Coin of Malaysia 1990 : Front and rear cover design issued by Bank Negara Malaysia

This beautiful pack of coins is the 2nd series of Malaysia issued in 1990 by Bank Negara Malaysia. In fact, the 2nd series of coins were introduced in 1989 to replace the 1st series of coins that has been circulated for 22nd years. The 2nd series of coins consist of denomination of 1 sen, 5 sen, 10 sen, 20 sen, 50 sen and $1.

Malaysia covers an area of about 330,000 sq km, with just over one-third of its in the Malay Peninsula (bordering with Southern Thailand) and the remainder in Sabah and Sarawak on the north-western coastal area of the Island of Borneo. It lies in Southeast Asia. The capital city is Kuala Lumpur. It is the business central and the seat of Federal Government.

Modern history of Malaysia begins with the emergence of the Malay kingdom of Malacca in the 14th century. It dominated both sides of the Straits of Malacca and was the centre of trade for spices. It fell to the Portuguese in 1511, marking the beginning of colonization by western powers. In 1641, Malacca was under the control of the Dutch and was later given to the British in the exchange for Batavia. Later, the other states in the Malay Peninsula progressively became British Protectorates. The Federation of Malaya became independent in 1957. In 1963, together with Sabah and Sarawak and Singapore, Malaysia was formed. However, Singapore separated from Malaysia in 1965.

Malaysia has a population of 23 million It is multiracial, embracing a diverse group of Malays and other indigenous peoples, Chinese, Indian and other minorities, such as Eurasians. Although Islam is the official religion, other religions are practised freely. Bahasa Malaysia is the national and official language, with English widely used in business.

Malaysia is a constitutional Monarchy practicing multi-party parlimentary democracy. It is a member of ASEAN and the Commonwealth.

The country is rich in natural resources and is a leading exporter of rubber, palm oil, timber and tin. Manufacturers account for about one half of the total exports. Malaysia enjoys a high standard of living among one of the highest in South East Asia.

Keris (1 Ringgit)
The keris is a traditional Malay dagger, which symbolizes authority and power. It is included as one of the main items of Malaysia’s Royal Regalia. Once considered a weapon, it now graces ceremonial occasions and is considered as a work of art. The background design depicts a popular “songket” motive.

Wau (50 Sen)
Kite (wau) flying is a popular from of Malaysian past time during the windy season especially in the East Coast. It requires much skill, dexterity and experience to make and to fly a kite. Kites are also decorative items, which sometimes grace the walls of Malaysian homes.

Tepak Sirih (20 Sen)
Tepat sirih, which is intricately carved, is used to store betel leaves and its accompanying condiments. They are used during auspicious occasions and is a sign of welcome amongst the Malays.

Congkak (10 Sen)
The congkak board is used for traditional indoor games, played by children with marbles in the Malay villages. It is carved out of wood and consists of numerous large holes. Played by two persons, with numerous variations of the rules, a congkak game is a popular past time. The congkak is placed on a traditional home-woven mat found in most Malay village homes.

Gasing (5 Sen)
Top (or gasing) spinning is an entertaining and competitive sport amongst the residents of the East Coast of Peninsula Malaysia. It is popular during the period when the rice crop is ripening and is believed to bring a good harvest. Top spinning competitions are a fascinating crown puller, with perfectly balanced tops trying to out-spin each other.

Rebana Ubi (1 Sen)
The Rebana Ubi is a gaily painted single-headed drum made of thick leather secured by a rattan hoop, with thick wooden wedges at the base frame. These are often assembled in groups of five and played during wedding celebrations. The beating of the Rebana Ubi is a popular gesture for welcoming guests.

Reverse Design
The reverse sides of the six denominations have a common design and feature the national flower, the Bunga Raya (or hibiscus flower) in the upper middle part of the coin with the denomination below it. The words “BANK NEGARA MALAYSIA” are described aong the upper circumference, with the year mintage in the lower half.


Reference from Malaysia Banknotes