Date of Issue : 21 Oct 2016
Postmark : Penang Free School
Denomination : 70 sen, 80 sen and 90 sen
Stamp Size : 40 mm x 30 mm
Paper : Tullis Russell High Reading Yellow / Green Phosphor Gummed Stamp Paper 103gsm
Printing Process : Lithography
This is definitely an awesome stamp issue as it commemorates the 200th anniversary of Penang Free School, the oldest English-medium school in Malaysia as well as Southeast Asia. The last stamp issue featuring Penang Free School was back in 1966, released to celebrate the school's 150th anniversary. The school was founded by Rev. Robert Sparke Hutchings on 21 Oct 1816. In a time when English school only opens its door for European children and children of Government Officials, Penang Free School was built with the objective to provide education to children regardless of race and religion. The stamps feature photographic images of the school buildings – classrooms and school hall (70 sen), aerial view of the school (80 sen) and front view of the school (90 sen). The school crest is also included in each stamp.