Phillumeny In Malaysia
Collecting Malaysian Matchbox Labels

Phillumeny is the niche hobby of collecting vintage matchbox labels and other match-related items. 

Back in the days when smoking was far more prevalent than it is today, a box of matches was one of the most commonly carried items in a man's pocket. In Malaysia there were a number of match manufacturers located around the country. The decline in smoking and the invention of cheap cigarette lighters has taken its toll on the industry but a couple of manufacturers still survive, such as the Kelantan Match Factory in Kota Bharu, established in 1933.

The entrance to the Kelantan Match Factory in KB.

The manufacturers decorated their matchboxes with logos and attractive images to promote their brands. Many of these miniature artworks have become collectors items, hence the hobby of phillumeny. Here are a few Malaysian examples:

Cap Lada - Chilly Brand by Kelantan Match Factory. These matches are produced currently.
Crown and Tiger by The Perak Match Factory, Teluk Anson (now Teluk Intan).
A similar design by the Kelantan Match Factory.
Tiger Head, another tiger inspired design from Kelantan Match Factory.
Rain Proof safety matches.
Flyingman Safety Matches by the Sincere Match & Tobacco Factory Ltd which is still operating.
Flag Brand by Sarawak Match Factory. Why the Indonesian flag?
Anchor Brand by the Elkayes Match Factory, Johor. This company was owned by Lee Kim Soo, whose initials formed the word Elkayes.
Sign outside the Kelantan Match Factory in Kota Bharu.

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AUTHOR BIO

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David (the one on the left) is the writer behind Malaysia Traveller, sharing firsthand travel advice from over five decades of living and travelling across Asia and the Middle East. Based in Malaysia since 2009 and now in Kuching, he has published 700+ pages, personally visited every place he covers, and uses only his own photos. Readers can learn more on his About Me page. He also shares updates on Facebook and YouTube. He loves uncovering overlooked places even many Malaysians have never visited.