Keris (1 Ringgit)
The keris is a traditional Malay dagger, which symbolizes authority and power. It is included as one of the main items of Malaysia’s Royal Regalia. Once considered a weapon, it now graces ceremonial occasions and is considered as a work of art. The background design depicts a popular “songket” motive.
Wau (50 Sen)
Kite (wau) flying is a popular from of Malaysian past time during the windy season especially in the East Coast. It requires much skill, dexterity and experience to make and to fly a kite. Kites are also decorative items, which sometimes grace the walls of Malaysian homes.
Tepak Sirih (20 Sen)
Tepat sirih, which is intricately carved, is used to store betel leaves and its accompanying condiments. They are used during auspicious occasions and is a sign of welcome amongst the Malays.
Congkak (10 Sen)
The congkak board is used for traditional indoor games, played by children with marbles in the Malay villages. It is carved out of wood and consists of numerous large holes. Played by two persons, with numerous variations of the rules, a congkak game is a popular past time. The congkak is placed on a traditional home-woven mat found in most Malay village homes.
Gasing (5 Sen)
Top (or gasing) spinning is an entertaining and competitive sport amongst the residents of the East Coast of Peninsula Malaysia. It is popular during the period when the rice crop is ripening and is believed to bring a good harvest. Top spinning competitions are a fascinating crown puller, with perfectly balanced tops trying to out-spin each other.
Rebana Ubi (1 Sen)
The Rebana Ubi is a gaily painted single-headed drum made of thick leather secured by a rattan hoop, with thick wooden wedges at the base frame. These are often assembled in groups of five and played during wedding celebrations. The beating of the Rebana Ubi is a popular gesture for welcoming guests.
Reverse Design
The reverse sides of the six denominations have a common design and feature the national flower, the Bunga Raya (or hibiscus flower) in the upper middle part of the coin with the denomination below it. The words “BANK NEGARA MALAYSIA” are described aong the upper circumference, with the year mintage in the lower half.
