Malaysia Seashells S/S FDC

Malaysia Souvenir Sheet FDC
Name: Seashells of Malaysia
Date of Issue: 11 November 2008

Seashells are the hard, protective layer of a marine animal, typically that of marine invertebrates. Seashells are commonly attributed to marine molluscs which has various sub-categories such as gastropods (e.g. snails), bivalves (e.g. clams), and chitons.

Seashells are commonly found deposited along the sea shore by waves and tides. Only the shells are washed up unto the beach empty and clean, the animal already have died and rotted away or have been eaten by predators or scavengers. Seashells come in a variety of shape, sizes and colours depending on the species. The presence of a particular species in the area is usually indicative of the water quality and hydrology.

Collecting empty seashells by beachcombers is a harmless hobby but majority of seashells are collected alive and in bulk for commercial trade and this exploitation causes negative impact on the rarer species.

Denominations:
RM2: Venus Comb Murex (Murex pecten)
This species is normally found on sandy sea beds. It has more than 100 spines which protect it from predators and also prevent it from sinking into the soft sandy sea bed.

Comment: Do you like this special shape seashell? Had you collected alive seashell on the beach? If you did, please never do it again.

2008 Seashells of Malaysia FDC
2008 Seashells of Malaysia Souvenir Sheet FDC

Indonesia Flora Fauna FDCs

Indonesia FDCs
Name: Provincial Flora and Fauna
Date of Issue: 05 November 2008

The stamp series of Provincial Flora and Fauna consists of 33 provinces of Indonesia will be sequentially issued in 3 years from 2008 to 2010. Each issue depicts flora and fauna of randomly selected 11 provinces. In 2008, the stamp series features flora and fauna from the provinces of Bali, Gorontalo, West Java, Central Java, West Kalimantan, Maluku, Nanggroe Aceh Darussalam, Papua, Riau, West Sulawesi and West Sumatera.Denominations:
1/33 Rp.2500: Majegau (Dysoxylum densiflorum) and Bali Starling (Leucopsar rothschildi) of Bali
Majegau (Dysoxylum densiflorum) is one of woods commonly used for Balinese carving material thanks to its strength and beautiful color and pattern. Classified as songbird, Bali Starling (Leucopsar rothschildi) can be found in Western Bali National Park in very limited number.

2/33 Rp.2500: Wolato (Vitex cofassus) and Flat-tail Mullet (Liza dussumieri) of Gorontalo
Wolato (Vitex cofassus) is categorized as hard wood commonly used for buildings material especially floor, pergola, beams as well as other exterior parts. Flat-tail Mullet (Liza dussumieri) lives in coastal and brackish water and feed algae, plankton and detritus of bottom sediment.

3/33 Rp.2500: Marian Plum (Bouea macrophylla) and Leopard (Phantera pardus) of West Java
Marian Plum (Bouea macrophylla) is a kind of slowly growing plant found in humid forest area at the elevation of 300m above sea level. Leopard (Phantera pardus) is the ultimate carnivores protected under the law inhabited forested area of Gunung Ciremai National Park, West Java.

4/33 Rp.2500: White Champaca (Michelia alba) and Black-naped Oriole (Oriolus chinensis) of Central Java
White Champaca (Michelia alba) commonly used for ritual practices blooms over the year, especially in rainy seasons. As implied by its name, Black-naped Oriole (Oriolus chinensis) has a gold yellow color of feathers with black stripe at wings and tail.

5/33 Rp.2500: BorneoTallowNut (Shorea stenoptera) and Helmeted Hornbill (Rhinoplax vigil) of West Kalimantan
BorneoTallowNut (Shorea stenoptera) has been economically planted and utilized for cosmetics and perfume substance since a long time. Helmeted Hornbill (Rhinoplax vigil) lives in tropical forest with high trees at the elevation of 1,500 m above sea level.6/33 Rp.2500: Dendrobium Orchid (Dendrobium phalaenopsis) and Moluccan King Parrot (Alisterus amboinensis) of Maluku
Dendrobium Orchid (Dendrobium phalaenopsis) grows at trees and rocks sufficiently exposed to sunlight at the elevation of 1,500 m above sea level. The Moluccan King Parrot (Alisterus amboinensis) is a big parrot found in humid forest in the islands of Maluku in a decreasing population.

7/33 Rp.2500: Golden Champaca (Michelia champoca) and Rufous Tailed Shama (Copsychus pyrropygus) of Nanggroe Aceh Darussalam
Golden Champaca (Michelia champoca) is economically planted and distilled its scented oil for perfume substance. Rufous Tailed Shama (Copsychus pyrropygus) can be found in forested area at the elevation of 900 m above the sea level.

8/33 Rp.2500: Island Lychee (Pometia pinnata) and Twelve-wired Bird of Paradise (Seleucidis melanoleuca) of Papua
Island Lychee (Pometia pinnata) grows at forested area of Papua at the elevation of 1,700 m above sea level and produce delicious fruits, while its woods are used for buildings, farming and sport equipments. The Twelve-wired Bird of Paradise (Seleucidis melanoleuca) is endemic bird of Papua forest with beautiful color, strong beak and feet, loud voice as well as good flight endurance.

9/33 Rp.2500: Nibung Palm (Oncosperma tigillarium) and Blue Crowned-hanging Parrot (Loriculus galgulus) of Riau
Nibung Palm (Oncosperma tigillarium) is wild palm commonly grown in clumps near mangrove area. The Blue Crowned-hanging Parrot (Loriculus galgulus) lives in tropical forest generally in pack or couple with peculiar sleeping habit namely hanging upside down.

10/33 Rp.2500: Uru (Elmerrillia ovalis) and Snoring Rail (Aramidopsis plateni) of West Sulawesi
Uru (Elmerrillia ovalis) with nearly 45 m height and 2 m diameter stem is highly economic plant that produces strong and beautifully grained woods. Snoring Rail (Aramidopsis plateni) is protected flightless bird inhabit Lore Lindu and Nani Wartabone National Park, West Sulawesi.

11/33 Rp.2500: King Murberry (Morus macroura) and Argus Pheasant (Argusianus argus) of West Sumatera
King Murberry (Morus macroura) with nearly 40 m height 1 m diameter length is one of prominent plants that yield high quality timbers. Argus Pheasant (Argusianus argus) has a unique body with long tail nearly 2 m and a very loud voice that can be heard from a distance.

Comment: This is the 2nd big series of Provincial things in this year, the early series is the Provincial Emblems.

Malaysia Seashells FDC

Malaysia FDC
Name: Seashells of Malaysia
Date of Issue: 11 November 2008

Seashells are the hard, protective layer of a marine animal, typically that of marine invertebrates. Seashells are commonly attributed to marine molluscs which has various sub-categories such as gastropods (e.g. snails), bivalves (e.g. clams), and chitons.

Seashells are commonly found deposited along the sea shore by waves and tides. Only the shells are washed up unto the beach empty and clean, the animal already have died and rotted away or have been eaten by predators or scavengers. Seashells come in a variety of shape, sizes and colours depending on the species. The presence of a particular species in the area is usually indicative of the water quality and hydrology.

Collecting empty seashells by beachcombers is a harmless hobby but majority of seashells are collected alive and in bulk for commercial trade and this exploitation causes negative impact on the rarer species.

Denominations:
30sen: Horned Helmet (Cassis cornuta)
This species is typically found on sandy banks, inside barrier reefs. During the day, they barrow down into the sand and at dusk move out to hunt.

30sen: Burnt Murex (Chicoreus brunneus)
Be normally found in coral reef areas in Malaysian waters and well-known for its beautiful spines. It is a carnivore which feeds on bivalves.

50sen: Triton's Trumpet (Charonia tritonis)
This species feeds on starfish. Traditionally, it is used as a trumpet by natives of other cultures.

50sen: Frog Shell (Tutufa rubeta)
This species usually hides among shallow reefs or rocks using its rock-liked shell as a great camouflage.

Comment: Which seashell do you like the most in this FDC?

2008 Seashells of Malaysia FDC
2008 Seashells of Malaysia Souvenir Sheet FDC

Lithuania Christmas FDC

Lithuania FDC
Name: Holy Christmas and New Year
Date of Issue: 08 October 2008

Denominations:
1.35 Lt: Snowy Berries.
2.45 Lt: Snowy Branches

Comment: Because Lithuania is located in high latitude, firn is a very common scene in winter. I think many people, at low latitude, yearn this scene very much.

2009 Christmas FDCs:
Estonia, Israel, Lithuania.

2008 Christmas FDCs:
Canada: The Nativity, Canada: Winter Fun, Estonia, Italy, Lithuania.

2007 Christmas FDCs:
Estonia, Finland, Hong Kong, Japan, Lithuania, Ukraine, Vatican.

Israel France FDC

Israel FDC
Name: 60 Years of Friendship between Israel and France (France – Israel Joint Issue)
Date of Issue: 06 November 2008

France supported Resolution 181 at the UN general Assembly on November 29, 1947, partitioning the land into two States and ending the British Mandate. This decision was the corner stone leading to the establishment of the State of Israel May, 14 1948. Postal ties between the newly founded State and the rest of the world had been severed since April 1948. In June of 1948 France brought about the renewal of Israel's postal ties with many nations.

The postal ties of 1948 are reminiscent of those that existed some 100 years earlier. On July 10, 1852 the French Postal ship Tancrède arrived in Jaffa and on that same day the first post office was opened by postal agent named Antonie Louis Santelli, who also initiated and founded a branch of the French post in Jerusalem. These were the first and only post offices in the area at that time. In 1906 an additional French Post office was opened in Haifa. These post offices were shut down on October 1, 1914 as per instructions issued by the Ottoman authorities on September 19, 1914.

On June 1958 an Air France DC3 airplane, registration number F.BAXK, landed Haifa, flown by pilot Georges Bernard and two crew members: communication technician Mr. Sortais and mechanic Mr. Boutet. The plane made an interim stop in Bucharest while en route to Israel, thus arriving with mail from both France and Romania. The plane subsequently left Haifa on June 11 at 6:36 a.m., bearing mail to France and other countries with which Israel had re-established postal ties: Bulgaria, Holland, Hungary, Yugoslavia, Poland and Switzerland. It also carried a mail sack bound for New York. After interim stop in Cyprus, Greece Italy and Nice un southern France, the airplane took of the next day towards its final destination, Le Bourget airport in Paris, where it landed o June 12, 1948 at 11:01 a.m. and delivered its mail sacks.

These stamps commemorate the 60th anniversary of that first flight to France and of the State of Israel's independence. That flight symbolizes the beginning of the ties and cooperation that exist between the two countries in many areas. Above all, it represents the close and friendly relation between the two countries and their people.

The Stamps depict the airplane as it leaves Haifa bound for Paris and a letter that was sent aboard that flight. The tabs feature postmarks with dates on each on the plane took off and landed.

Comment: The landmarks of 2 cities are very distinct on 2 stamps, you could see the Sail Tower and the Shrine of the Báb on Haifa stamp and the Eiffel Tower on Paris stamp.

Canada Winter Fun FDC

Canada FDC
Name: Christmas: Winter Fun
Date of Issue: 03 November 2008

Christmas is a time of tradition and childhood memories. It's the joy of making snow angels at first snowfall, of slipping and sliding, then finally gliding down a frozen slope as you learn to ski, or racing, rosy-cheeked and breathless with excitement, down a snow-packed hill on a new Christmas toboggan. It's the season of keeping warm with hand-knitted hats and scarves – in colours inspired by traditional Christmas decorating and greeting cards – no doubt crafted by a loving grandmother.

These charming images of a child's Christmas, created using block prints hand-tinted with coloured pencils and pastels, invite all generations to once again experience the chilly bliss of playing in new fallen snow. They make our memories of the fun shared with family and friends in winters long ago so real, you can almost smell the hot chocolate.

Comment: Will you think this FDC was overpaid? Actually not, the "up to 20g" postage rate to China is 1.60 CAD, because the high value of this set, my friend added 0.62 CAD to reach the higher postage rate (up to 100g: 3.75 CAD). Well done!!

2009 Christmas FDCs:
Estonia, Israel, Lithuania.

2008 Christmas FDCs:
Canada: The Nativity, Canada: Winter Fun, Estonia, Italy, Lithuania.

2007 Christmas FDCs:
Estonia, Finland, Hong Kong, Japan, Lithuania, Ukraine, Vatican.

Hong Kong Masks M/S FDC

Hong Kong Minisheet FDC
Name: Masks (Hong Kong – Rep. of Korea Joint Issue)
Date of Issue: 08 November 2008

Staged folk dance is a unique performance genre with a long history. Its themes cover a wide spectrum of subjects ranging from people's daily activities to myths and legends. While folk dances from different nations display a rich variety of styles because of differences in their historical and cultural backgrounds, they do share some common features. One example is the use of masks to highlight the identity or character of individual dancers. Hong Kong Post and Korea Post jointly issue a set of two stamps on "Masks" to showcase the distinct folk dance masks of the two places. This marks the ninth joint stamp issue released by Hong Kong Post with other postal administrations.

Denominations:
$5: Big Head Buddha Mask in Southern Lion Dance
There are different versions of the origin of Big Head Buddha, but most are associated with lions. In the Southern Lion Dance, the first one to appear in the show is the always cheerful Big Head Buddha. A fellow with a palm leaf fan in his hand, the Big Head acts in an amusing way to provoke the lion to perform a series of agile manoeuvres, enhancing the joyous festive mood. The Big Head also plays funny tricks on the lion to induce it to "Cai Qing" (Pick the Greens) or "Po Zhen" (Smash the Battle Line), a symbol of bringing "good luck" and "bumper crops" to all households.

$5: Chwibari Mask of Bongsan Mask Dance Drama
The Bongsan Mask Dance Drama, designated the "Important Intangible Cultural Property No. 17 of Korea", is steeped in realism. Each mask used in a performance reveals the occupation and social status of a character. Through delightfully nimble movements and humorous presentation, the dancers satirise social ills or express the concerns and frustrations of ordinary people. Their performance gives the audience an opportunity to temporarily take their minds off their worries. The most famous folk dance form in Korea, the Bongsan Mask Dance Drama is frequently staged at home and abroad during seasonal festivals and celebrations for good harvests or marvellous feats, as well as ceremonies to welcome visiting dignitaries.

With two opposite face silhouettes as the backdrop, the souvenir sheet presents two masks — a Chinese mask of "Big Head Buddha" on the left and a Korean mask of "Bongsan Mask Dance Drama (Chwibari Mask)"on the right. The theme of the stamp issue is shown trilingually in Chinese, Korean and English. The vibrant colours and contrasting patterns add an intensity to the costumed images on the stamps.

Comment: As you see, the postmark of this FDC is terrible. the "KTG" Post Office paid less attention on philatelic materials, they should be blamed. :(

2008 Hong Kong Masks FDCs
2008 Hong Kong Masks Minisheet FDC

Hong Kong Masks FDCs

Hong Kong FDCs
Name: Masks (Hong Kong – Rep. of Korea Joint Issue)
Date of Issue: 08 November 2008

Staged folk dance is a unique performance genre with a long history. Its themes cover a wide spectrum of subjects ranging from people's daily activities to myths and legends. While folk dances from different nations display a rich variety of styles because of differences in their historical and cultural backgrounds, they do share some common features. One example is the use of masks to highlight the identity or character of individual dancers. Hong Kong Post and Korea Post jointly issue a set of two stamps on "Masks" to showcase the distinct folk dance masks of the two places. This marks the ninth joint stamp issue released by Hong Kong Post with other postal administrations.

Denominations:
$5: Big Head Buddha Mask in Southern Lion Dance
There are different versions of the origin of Big Head Buddha, but most are associated with lions. In the Southern Lion Dance, the first one to appear in the show is the always cheerful Big Head Buddha. A fellow with a palm leaf fan in his hand, the Big Head acts in an amusing way to provoke the lion to perform a series of agile manoeuvres, enhancing the joyous festive mood. The Big Head also plays funny tricks on the lion to induce it to "Cai Qing" (Pick the Greens) or "Po Zhen" (Smash the Battle Line), a symbol of bringing "good luck" and "bumper crops" to all households.

$5: Chwibari Mask of Bongsan Mask Dance Drama
The Bongsan Mask Dance Drama, designated the "Important Intangible Cultural Property No. 17 of Korea", is steeped in realism. Each mask used in a performance reveals the occupation and social status of a character. Through delightfully nimble movements and humorous presentation, the dancers satirise social ills or express the concerns and frustrations of ordinary people. Their performance gives the audience an opportunity to temporarily take their minds off their worries. The most famous folk dance form in Korea, the Bongsan Mask Dance Drama is frequently staged at home and abroad during seasonal festivals and celebrations for good harvests or marvellous feats, as well as ceremonies to welcome visiting dignitaries.

With two opposite face silhouettes as the backdrop, the souvenir sheet presents two masks — a Chinese mask of "Big Head Buddha" on the left and a Korean mask of "Bongsan Mask Dance Drama (Chwibari Mask)"on the right. The theme of the stamp issue is shown trilingually in Chinese, Korean and English. The vibrant colours and contrasting patterns add an intensity to the costumed images on the stamps.

Comment: The Priority Mail's was as quickly as the registered mail to reach me this time. You know, this is the first time that these different "mail" reach to me on same day from Hong Kong. "Priority Mail" deserves its name this time.

2008 Hong Kong Masks FDCs
2008 Hong Kong Masks Minisheet FDC

Canada Christmas FDC

Canada FDC
Name: Christmas: The Nativity
Date of Issue: 03 November 2008

This scene of Mary placing Jesus in the manger is one of many artistic depictions of a seminal moment in Christianity. The birth of Jesus has been told and retold in books, oral stories, murals, paintings, stain glass windows and frescos all over the world. The repetition of the nativity story is an example of a culture-spanning tradition of artistically rendering religious symbols and images in different art forms and periods.

This stamp features Antonio Caruso's traditional sculpture of Mary looking over Jesus in his makeshift crib. The stamp, a work of art in its own right, focuses on the baby who, in this artistic rendition forgoes the swaddling clothes.

Comment: I know my friend sent this FDC on issue day (3rd Nov.), but the machine postmark canceled this FDC on 4th Nov.

2009 Christmas FDCs:
Estonia, Israel, Lithuania.

2008 Christmas FDCs:
Canada: The Nativity, Canada: Winter Fun, Estonia, Italy, Lithuania.

2007 Christmas FDCs:
Estonia, Finland, Hong Kong, Japan, Lithuania, Ukraine, Vatican.

Germany ATM FDC

Germany FDC
Name: Brandenburg Gate & Deutsche Post Tower
Date of Issue: 09 October 2008

0.45: Brandenburg Gate, Berlin
The Brandenburg Gate (German: Brandenburger Tor) is a former city gate and one of the main symbols of Berlin and Germany. It is located west of the city center at the intersection of Unter den Linden and Ebertstraße, immediately west of the Pariser Platz. It is the only remaining gate of a series through which one formerly entered Berlin. One block to its north lies the Reichstag. The gate is the monumental entry to Unter den Linden, the renowned boulevard of linden trees which formerly led directly to the city palace of the Prussian monarchs. It was commissioned by King Frederick William II of Prussia as a sign of peace and built by Carl Gotthard Langhans from 1788 to 1791. The Brandenburg Gate was restored from 2000 to 2002 by the Stiftung Denkmalschutz Berlin (Berlin Monument Conservation Foundation). Today, it is considered one of Europe's most famous landmarks. More...

0,55: Deutsche Post Tower, Bonn
The Deutsche Post Tower in Bonn, designed by Helmut Jahn, is sited in a public parkland adjacent to the river Rhine. The building reflects the ideal of transparency, weightlessness and immateriality. More...

Comment: I was so surprise that my Chinese friend (lives in Germany) made this FDC for me.

Indonesia Turkey FDCs

Indonesia FDCs
Name: Indonesia - Turkey (Indonesia - Turkey Joint Issue)
Date of Issue: 24 October 2008

On the occasion of Indonesia-Turkey Joint Stamps Issue, the stamp designs feature cultural heritages, landmark, dance as well as flora and fauna of both countries. Indonesia depicts Istiqlal Mosque, Barelang Bridge, Saman Dance, Mucuna bennetti (Flame of Irian) and Prionailurus planiceps. Turkey depicts Blue Mosque, Bosphorus Bridge, Whirling Desvishes Dance, Turkish Tulip, and Turkish Van Cat.

Denominations:
1/10 Rp.2500: Blue Mosque
The Sultan Ahmed Mosque is also known and referred to as the Blue Mosque for the blue tiles decorating the walls of its interior. It is a national mosque of Turkey as well as historical mosque in Istanbul built between 1609 and 1616 during the rule of Sultan Ahmed I. The mosque architecture design is the culmination of two centuries of both Ottoman mosque and Byzantine church development. The Blue Mosque has become one of the greatest tourist points of attraction in Istanbul.

2/10 Rp.2500: Istiqlal Mosque
Istiqlal Mosque is located Jakarta and possibly the largest mosque in Southeast Asia. Istiqlal derives from Arabic word meaning independence. As a national mosque of Indonesia, it was build to commemorate Indonesian independence as nation’s gratitude for God’s blessings. The main prayer hall of this building is covered by a 45 meter diameter central spherical dome. President Soekarno started its construction building on August 23, 1961. President Soeharto inaugurated this national mosque on February 17, 1978.

3/10 Rp.2500: Bosphorus Bridge
The Bosphorus Bridge, also called the First Bosphorus Bridge is one of the two bridges spanning the Bosphorus strait in Istanbul, Turkey. The bridge is gravity anchored suspension bridge with steel pylons and inclined hangers. It is located between the European pylons and inclined hangers. It is located between the European side of Ortakoy and Asian side of Beylerbeyi. At present, this bridge is the 15th longest suspension bridge span in the word. The decision to build it was taken in 1957 by Prime Minister Adnan Menderes. The construction was completed on October 30, 1973 and opened by President Fahri Koruturk and Prime Minister Naim Talu.

4/10 Rp.2500: Barelang Bridge
The Barelang Bridge is a chain of various types of 6 bridges that connect the islands of Batam, Rempang, and Galang, Locals also call it as Habibie Bridge refers to then President BJ Habibie, who run the construction project, aiming to develop Rempang and Galang into industrial sites. It takes about 50 minutes to travel this nearly 50km length route from the first bridge to the last one. Nowadays, the bridge becomes a landmark of Batam and is a popular tourism site.

5/10 Rp.2500: Whiriling Dervishes Dance
Originated from Konya, the dance is known as the Whiriling Dervishes due to practice of whirling as a form of dhikr means remembrance of Allah. Dervish is a common term for the Sufi path initiation. This dance is inspired by Mevlana Jalaluddin Rumi songs and teachings. The dancers wear conical hat as well as white shirt and typical skirt that flowing around as the dancers spin. They usually spin from right to left follow the sounds of a read instrument.

6/10 Rp.2500: Saman Dance
Saman is one of the most popular dances from Aceh originated from the Alas ethnic group and usually performed to celebrate the birthday of the Prophet Muhammad and other important occasions. Eight to twenty performers kneel in a row on the floor and make torso movements accompanied by songs, slapping chests and clapping hands. The songs are praises to Allah. Started with slow movements, the dance is gradually increasing its tempo until abruptly stop at the end.

7/10 Rp.2500: Turkish Tulip
Sometimes dubbed as Fire Flame Tulip, Turkish Tulip or Tulipa acuminata had been known since the 17th century of the Ottoman Empire. Its flower is unique with needle pointed petal in red and yellow blooming in May. Leaves spreading normally on the ground, mostly strongly undulated. With almost 12 to 18 inches of height, this plant needs moist soil and more sun exposure.

8/10 Rp.2500: Flame of Irian
Commonly known as Flame of Irian, Mucuna bennettii is beautiful winding vine with the large bright red flowers. Long cascading clusters of its brilliant red flowers chained together in 30 to 45 cm length. Originated from forested area of Papua, it flourishes well in tropical to semi tropical regions. For enthusiasts, it can be used to climb a large tree or pergola.

9/10 Rp.2500: Turkish Van Cat
The Turkish Van is a breed of cat native to the Lake Van region in Eastern Turkey. Formerly called as Turkish Cat, the name was changed in 1979 to Turkish Van to better differ the breed from the Turkish Angora cat which had its origins around Ankara, in central Turkey. Traditionally, Turkish Vans are recognized as patterned cats with color restricted to the head and tail and white body. This cat is very intelligent. They like to play and jump and explore anything in their reach.

10/10 Rp.2500: Flat-Headed Cat (Prionailurus paniceps)
Also known as flat-headed cat, this small wild cat can be found in forested area of Kalimantan and Sumatera. It has nearly 41-50 cm length of body covered by generally dark brown tinged grey thick fur. The head shape is slightly flat as implied by its common name. It mostly hunts for frogs, fish, crustaceans, as well as rats and chickens. Flat-headed cat is considered as endangered species by IUCN due to habitat loss and pollution.

Comment: This is the 2nd time that Indonesia Post issues the joint stamp like this in 2008. Indonesia and Japan is the first time. Do you like this way?

China Pre-stamped Postcard TP37

China Special Pre-stamped Postcards
Name: The Ancient Qikou Town
Number: TP37
Date of Issue: 10 November 2008

Cover	Inside Cover
8-1 Distant View of Qikou	8-2 Street
8-3 Heilong Temple	8-4 Ancient Port
8-5 Xiwan Village	Lijiashan Village
8-7 Baijiashan Village	8-8 Sunjiagou Village
Inside Back Cover

Qikou Town, situated at the very south end of Linxian County, Shanxi Province, is at the west foot of the Lvliang Mountain and beside the east bank of the Huanghe River. The ten-thousand-li Huanghe River flows here and the riverbed here becomes very narrow abruptly. At this part of the Huanghe River, submerged reefs stand like a forest, current is swift and waves are very high. so it has been the natural moat of the water transportation of the Huanghe River. In History, the ancient Qikou Town was an important port for water-land transportation service. The commerce here was flourishing and was in fashion for a time.

A lot of buildings constructed in the Ming and Qing Dynasties and in the first years of the Republic of China remain at Qikou Town and villages all around. The ancient buildings are the outcome and the telling witness of the Huanghe culture and the brilliant Shanxi commerce and are of important cultural and historical value. Qikou Town has been listed as one of the sixth batch of the Major historical and cultural sites under state protection.

Italy Christmas FDC

Italy FDC
Name: Christmas
Date of Issue: 30 October 2008

Denominations:
€ 0,60: "Madonna and Child Enthroned with Two Angels" by Lorenzo di Credi, housed at the offices of Banco di Brescia
€ 2,80: Christmas Wreath
Comment: Because the € 2.80 stamp has used lithography on sheets laminated in gold, with 2 grams of pure gold per square metre. Could you figure out how much pure gold is there on this single stamp (30mm x 40mm)? lol

2009 Christmas FDCs:
Estonia, Israel, Lithuania.

2008 Christmas FDCs:
Canada: The Nativity, Canada: Winter Fun, Estonia, Italy, Lithuania.

2007 Christmas FDCs:
Estonia, Finland, Hong Kong, Japan, Lithuania, Ukraine, Vatican.

Estonia Võru FDC

Estonia FDC
Name: Võru County (Definitive Issue)
Date of Issue: 30 October 2008

With nearly 39,000 inhabitants and a territory of 2,305 square kilometres Võru County (Estonian: Võrumaa) lies in Estonia's far southeastern corner and it has a common border with Latvia and Russia. Stone age settlement sites at Kääpa, on the Võhandu River and at Roosisaare are regarded as the oldest, going back 5,000 years. Today the county has 12 rural communities and the County seat of Võru, which was granted the status of a town in 1784. The communities fall into two historial regions – the Võru and the Seto cultural areas where the local dialects and traditions are still honoured today. Friedrich Reinhold Kreutzwald lived for 44 years as a doctor in Võru and it was there that he produced all his literary work, including the Estonian national epic, Kalevipoeg. The county is famed for its picturesque scenery – it has the highest point in the Baltic countries, Suur Munamägi, and numerous rounded hills covered with forests. Of the valleys lying between the hills Ööbikuorg (Nightingale Valley) is known the best; it also has the deepest lake in Estonia, Rõuge Suurjärv. They say that Võru County is a part of Estonia where you can be alone with nature – travelling there you may end up in places where it seems as if no one has been there before. With his warm heart a Võrokõnõ takes care of the world and its creatures.

Estonia Counties' Coat of Arms - Definitive Series FDCs:
Viljandi County, Võru County.

Singapore Postal History FDC

Singapore FDC
Name: Singapore Postal Services Through the Years
Date of Issue: 29 October 2008

Denominations:
1ST: Postman 2008
2ND: Postman c1980
50 CENTS: Postman c1970
80 CENTS: Postman c1950
$1.10: Postman c1910

On 29 October 1858, the Secretary to the Government of India signed the approval on the proposal by Governor Blundell in Singapore for the separation of the Post Office and the Marine Office. The Post Office was then a branch of the Indian Post Office under the control of the Director-General at Calcutta with local responsibility being vested in the Master Attendant.

With the approval, the Post Office became an independent department, financed from postal revenue, William Cuppage, who first joined the Master Attendant's Office as a clerk and then rose to Assistant Post Master and had been effectively running the Post Office though the Master Attendant was still nominally in charge, became the first independent Post Master.

Since then, through the years of different facelifts, mergers and transformation, the Post Office is, today, targeting to become a world-class provider of consumer services focusing on mail, logistics and retail solutions.

This set of stamps aims to portray the concept of tracing back Singapore's postal history by adapting the typical design of stamps which were used during the reigns of King George V and VI in the Straits Settlements (of which Singapore was part of) and Singapore itself when we were constituted separately as a crown colony after the Second World War.

Each stamp design is differentiated by its own distinctive color scheme, with focus on the transformation of the eras via the uniforms of the postmen and the different post boxes through the times. All these are within an oval frame in duotone effect and all other graphic elements outside & around this oval frame in monotone.

Comment: Actually, this set commemorates the 150th anniversary of Singapore postal service. The design of this set is very special, but I'm curious about the uniform of the postman in 19 century.

Malaysia Space M/S FDC

Malaysia Minisheet FDC
Name: National Angkasawan Programme
Date of Issue: 21 October 2008

National Space Agency (ANGKASA), Ministry of Science, Technology, and Innovations have been given the responsibility of commissioning the process of selecting the national astronaut (Angkasawan Negara). This process reached its peak when two out of the four final candidates was chosen and announced by the Prime Minister of Malaysia before they go through the Astronaut Training Program for 18 months in Russia.

The Malaysian people and the country has benefited from this program mainly in the fields of science and technology. This includes Space Medicine, Aviation Medicine, Life Science, Environmental Science, and Physics were scientists are able to involve themselves to create and design experiments that could be carried out in a unique environment. These researchers will benefit selected industries such as in the medical and Aerospace Industries while working towards achieving a scientific society.

This is a pioneer program for this country to cater the next generation into exploring new technologies that is capable of bringing into existence, another advantage for Malaysia to compete in the global arena.

M/S: Launching
Malaysian Angkasawan, Dr. Sheikh Muszaphar Syukor Al-Masrie was launched to space at 9.21 pm (Malaysian time), 10 October 2007 from Baikonur Cosmodrome, Kazakhstan on board the Soyuz TMA-11 rocket. This marks a significant milestone in Malaysia's history where for the first time ever, a Malaysian was successfully able to go to the outer space and this is indeed a catalyst for future space exploration projects.

Comment: Baikonur Cosmodrome, a very hot scene for space theme stamps. It appears twice on this set.

2008 Malaysia National Angkasawan Programme FDC
2008 Malaysia National Angkasawan Programme Minisheet FDC

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Malaysia Space FDC

Malaysia FDC
Name: National Angkasawan Programme
Date of Issue: 21 October 2008

National Space Agency (ANGKASA), Ministry of Science, Technology, and Innovations have been given the responsibility of commissioning the process of selecting the national astronaut (Angkasawan Negara). This process reached its peak when two out of the four final candidates was chosen and announced by the Prime Minister of Malaysia before they go through the Astronaut Training Program for 18 months in Russia.

The Malaysian people and the country has benefited from this program mainly in the fields of science and technology. This includes Space Medicine, Aviation Medicine, Life Science, Environmental Science, and Physics were scientists are able to involve themselves to create and design experiments that could be carried out in a unique environment. These researchers will benefit selected industries such as in the medical and Aerospace Industries while working towards achieving a scientific society.

This is a pioneer program for this country to cater the next generation into exploring new technologies that is capable of bringing into existence, another advantage for Malaysia to compete in the global arena.

Denominations:
30sen: Soyuz TMA-11
Soyuz TMA Rocket was brought first Malaysian Angkasawan to the International Space Station on 10 October 2007.

50sen: Experimental Science of Microgravity
One of the objectives of the National Angkasawan Programmed is to send Malaysian Angkasawan to ISS and conduct beneficial activities to the country and its people especially in science and technology development for now and in the future. The major activity of national angkasawan in the ISS involves conducting microgravity science research. Some of the experiments that were conducted are regarding cell in space, microbe in space and protein in space.

50sen: International Space Station (ISS)
The International Space Station (ISS) is the largest international scientific project ever produced. It's an outcome of collaboration between countries such as the United States, Russia, Japan, Canada, and other eleven European countries. This station is generated by solar power which will produce 110 kilowatts of power once it is equipped. Laboratory and habitation modules will support a permanent international crew of seven astronauts. ISS will act as a platform for Earth and space observation and the experiments conducted on board will help produce new materials and pharmaceutical products, which can only be carried out in a microgravity condition.

Comment: "Angkasawan", this is a word for Malaysian astronaut. How about "taikonaut" and "cosmonaut"? Do you know?

2008 Malaysia National Angkasawan Programme FDC
2008 Malaysia National Angkasawan Programme Minisheet FDC

Thailand Statue of King FDC

Thailand FDC
Name: Centenary of the Equestrian Statue of King Chulalongkorn
Date of Issue: 23 October 2008
Number: 861

Purpose:
To commemorate the centenary of the equestrian statue of King Chulalongkorn (King Rama V).

Designs: Illustrates the stamp on stamp design. The design of the Statue of King Chulalongkorn Commemorative Stamp, 2 Baht denomination, was printed on the Centenary of the Equestrian Statue of King Chulalongkorn Commemorative Stamp.

The Equestrian Statue of King Rama V the Great was erected in 1908 during the reign of King Rama V from a fund raised by the Thai people. The statue was cast in Paris by a French craftsman and located at the center of The Royal Plaza (Thai ลานพระบรมรูปทรงม้า). The remainder of the fund was spent by King Rama VI on the establishment of Chulalongkorn University, which was named after King Chulalongkorn, Rama V.

Comment: Who knows the issue date of the old stamp on this stamp?

USA Alzheimer's FDC

USA FDC
Name: Alzheimer's
Date of Issue: 17 October 2008

According to the Alzheimer's Association, every 71 seconds, someone in America develops Alzheimer's disease. For these individuals and their families, the significance of this moment cannot be underestimated as it marks the beginning of a devastating descent into memory loss. For the person with Alzheimer's, interaction with the caregiver means everything.

Experts estimate that more than five million Americans are living with Alzheimer's disease. People suffering with Alzheimer's have trouble carrying out daily activities. The disease initially affects the parts of the brain that control language, thought and memory. It is the most common form of dementia among older people. To help recognize the warning signs, the Alzheimer's Association has developed a list of the 10 common symptoms of Alzheimer's disease: 1. Memory loss; 2. Difficulty performing familiar tasks; 3. Problems with language; 4. Disorientation to time and place; 5. Poor or decreased judgment; 6. Problems with abstract thinking; 7. Misplacing things; 8. Changes in mood or behavior; 9. Changes in personality; 10. Loss of initiative.

Since the mid 1950s, the Postal Service has released a variety of social awareness stamp on important issues such as Sickle Cell disease, Mentoring, Organ and Tissue Donation, Adoption, Amber Alert and Jury Duty.

The stamp ceremony takes place during the dedication of the Blanchette Rockefeller Neurosciences Institute's new $30 million research facility. In 1999, Senator John D. Rockefeller IV and his family established the Institute on the campus of West Virginia University in Morgantown, WV. It is the only non-profit, independent Institute in the world exclusively dedicated to the study of human memory and memory disorders. Its mission is to expand and advance the scientific research of memory and memory disorders for purposes of prevention, diagnosis and treatment. The Institute strives to move basic research out of the laboratory and into the hands of physicians and patients through innovative partnerships and new business models.

Comment: Although the Alzheimer's stamp was cancelled twice, but I totally accept it. It's natural and proves this FDC is a real posted First Day Cover from USA. Well done Jay!!