The designs of the third series of Malaysian coins draw its inspiration from distinctive elements that define Malaysian culture and heritage. The theme, 'Distinctively Malaysia', features motifs from traditional crafts and our flora and fauna. The coins reflect the diversity and richness of Malaysia's national identity.
Common Features
On the obverse, each denomination features a different motif, 14 dots representing the 13 states and the Federal Territory and (with exception in the case of the 50 sen coin) five horizontal lines representing the five principles of the 'Rukun Negara' (national pillars).
On the reverse, the new series of coins feature the national flower Rosa-sinensis hibiscus (known as the 'Bunga Raya'), numerals indicating the year of minting, the face value of the coin and the words 'BANK NEGARA MALAYSIA'.
50 sen - Sulur Kacang
The ‘sulur kacang’ (pea tendrils) motif featured on the new 50 sen coin is popular among traditional woodcarvers and silversmiths.
20 sen - Bunga Melur
The ‘bunga melur’ or jasmine flower is culturally significant among the three major races in Malaysia.
10 sen - Orang Asli Motif
The ‘orang asli’ (aboriginal tribes) of Malaysia are talented in weaving indigenous leaves and plants into decorative items such as headbands, sashes and skirts for traditional rituals and ceremonies.
5 sen - Destar Siga
The ‘destar siga’ cloth is an indigenous form of fabric weaving that originates from the Kadazan Dusun tribe in Sabah.
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I have a very small accumulation of coins that I have acquired in my travels. They can be very challenging to identify but the fun is in the trying. They can be very inexpensive or even free.
