Why did Pos Malaysia choose to feature exotic foods on stamps?

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Pos Malaysia's Rationale for Featuring Exotic Foods on Stamps

Pos Malaysia issued an apology to animal lovers after facing criticism for its planned exotic food-themed stamps, which were intended to showcase the diversity of uncommon delicacies found in Malaysia. The stamp series was designed to highlight unique dishes such as sea cucumber salad, turmeric fried grasshoppers, and porcupine steak and rendang, with the intention of celebrating Malaysia's culinary variety. However, the postal service clarified that the stamps were not meant to promote or encourage the hunting or consumption of exotic animals.
Intention to Highlight Culinary Diversity

The primary objective behind Pos Malaysia's decision to feature exotic foods on stamps was to celebrate and draw attention to the wide array of unusual delicacies available within Malaysia. This initiative aimed to showcase the unique aspects of Malaysian cuisine, which often incorporates ingredients and dishes not commonly found elsewhere. The organisation believed this approach would highlight the nation's rich and diverse culinary landscape to a wider audience.
Response to Criticism and Misinterpretation

Pos Malaysia's apology was a direct response to criticism, notably from Datuk Dr Amar Singh, who raised concerns about the potential negative implications of featuring porcupine dishes. Dr Amar highlighted that certain porcupine species are protected under the Wildlife Conservation Act 2010, and expressed worry that the stamps might inadvertently encourage the hunting and consumption of these protected animals. He also suggested that such a depiction could negatively affect Malaysia's international image concerning ecological sensitivity.
Clarification on Not Encouraging Hunting

In its statement, Pos Malaysia explicitly stated that it was not its intention to promote or encourage the hunting or consumption of exotic animals through this stamp series. The organisation acknowledged the unease caused to nature and animal lovers by the production of these stamps and offered an apology for any such perception. This clarification aimed to distance the postal service's intent from the negative interpretations that arose.
Planned Stamp Release and Quantities

Prior to the controversy, Pos Malaysia had planned to issue 200,000 stamps for each of the three depicted dishes. These stamps were scheduled to be released on a Tuesday and were priced at RM0.60 each. The collection was intended for distribution and sale at post offices nationwide, reflecting a standard approach to philatelic releases.

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Why did Pos Malaysia choose to feature exotic foods on stamps?

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