POS MALAYSIA on 10 August 2018 unveiled its “blowpipe” stamp series which showcased a unique tool used by some of Sarawak’s indigenous communities -- the "sumpit" or blowpipe. The set consisted of three RM0.60 stamp designs showcasing the “sumpit” – Sumpit Orang Asli, Sumpit Etnik Dayak and Sumpit Etnik Murut. The miniature sheet (MS) featured the Sumpit Etnik Dayak and is priced at RM3 apiece. Postmark cancellation on this set originated from Kuala Lumpur and featured a blowpipe design.
Stamp & Philately Unit of Pos Malaysia printed these in a limited amount. Only 200,000 pieces of each stamp design (600,000 pieces in total) – 30,000 pieces of FDC; 25,000 pieces of MS; and 1,800 folders were released.
The sumpit is a functional weapon used by aboriginal hunters to hunt for food, as well as a means to track one’s path in the jungle. Pos Malaysia's intent was to highlight it as a weapon of art and survival to future generations as well as collectors.
Source: Pos Malaysia and New Straits Times.
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