Formation of Malaysia - 1963

PERSKUTUAN TANAH MELAYU on 16 September 1963 issued three commemorative stamps marking the Formation of Malaysia, particularly the incorporation of Sarawak and Sabah (East Malaysia) with peninsular (West Malaysia). A map showing both West and East Malaysia was highlighted in yellow.  The nation's 15-point star radiated over the map. The denominations ranged from 10c (brown), 12c (green) to 50c (blue).

The original date for the formation of Malaysia was initially set for 1 June 1963. This date was postponed until 31 August 1963 in order to align with Merdeka Day. However, due to objections from  neighbouring countries (namely Indonesia with support from China, USSR and Philippines and various political parties in Sabah and Sarawak), the date was rescheduled to 16 September 1963.

Interestingly, this postal cachet with the national flag included the 1963 Merdeka slogan “Berjaya Malaysia” which would have been applicable for the original print date of 31 August 1963. Additionally, the cancellation postmark for this FDC originated from Singapore, which at the time was part of Malaysia and remained so up until 1965. This FDC was posted to New Zealand in 1963, which I purchased from a philatelist there; so, finally after 60 years, it has now returned home to Malaysia.