Raya cards on sale at post offices nationwide
By Achong Tanjong

Sending cards is one of the traditional activities commonly practised by many as a way of offering greetings to a person whilst the same time enhancing ties between senders and the recipient, especially on special occasions.

Greeting cards are normally sent particularly during festivities such as Hari Raya, Chinese New Year, Christmas, and so on. There are various types of cards that can be found nowadays at departmental stores, shops and even at Post Offices throughout the country.

This year, the Postal Services Department has appointed one company to handle and conduct the booking service and sales of Hari Raya cards. The aim is to provide an efficient service to the public, said an officer at the Department.

There are various types of card designs and patterns sold this year. Some have been designed from abroad, while some were designed and printed locally.

According to the officer, those who wish to place their booking for the cards may do so at the Mail and Parcel Processing Centre at Jln Airport Lama in Berakas, at the General Post Office in the capital, or at the Sengkurong Post Office.

Opening hours during the month of Ramadhan are from 8.15 am to 2.00pm.

Although bookings can only be made on the day of purchase, the greeting cards are normally readily available to buy at all post offices throughout the country.

Customers who wish to make personal booking may call 2225955 or send fax to 2222133.

For cards produced outside the country, prices range from 80 cents to B$1.80 depending on the size, pattern and the card design. Locally produced cards are sold at prices ranging from 60 cents and B$1.60.

For a reasonable extra charge, customers can also have their names and pictures printed inside their cards. Special "insert" cards can be made within one week, while the normal insert card takes three days to make.

The local delivery charge is 20 cents for items of weight not more than 20 grammes. Overseas mailing rates are also based on the weight and destination.

The selling of the Hari Raya cards starts today at all the post offices throughout the country.

The officer also urged members of the public to book and send their Hari Raya cards as early as possible to ensure the smooth running of the deliveries in time for the Hari Raya celebrations.

She also urges public to write in their address correctly such as by writing the house number, "simpang" number and post-code for the convenience of the delivery process, and also to ensure sufficient stamp rates.

\Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin