Information on RM5 polymer bank note

 

 

By Bank Negara Malaysia, 2004

 

Polymer bank note—durable, cleaner, and more secure

 

Overview

 

The RM5 polymer banknote, issued for circulation by Bank Negara Malaysia from 26.10.04, retains the existing design, colour, size and certain security features of the existing RM5 paper banknote. However, the polymer banknote is more durable and has unique security features when compared to existing paper banknote.

In addition, there are a number of new security features such as the clear window with the shadow image of the Prime Minister's office at Putrajaya, the embossed printing of numeral 5 in the window, the Bank's logo on the front of the polymer banknote, and the opaque (non-transparent) window on the back of the polymer banknote with the Bank's logo.

The easily recognisable feel, look and check security features of the RM5 Polymer banknote are highlighted as an identification guide for the public. Please note that the current RM5 paper banknote remains legal tender but will be withdrawn gradually from circulation.

Advantages of the polymer banknote :

  • Stronger and more durable than paper banknote

  • Does not absorb dirt or liquid

  • Cleaner and more hygienic as it minimise growth of bacteria

  • Difficult, time consuming and costly to counterfeit

For more information on the RM5 Polymer banknote, please contact the Currency Management and Operation Department, Bank Negara Malaysia (Tel: +603-26907309).

 

Security features

 

The easily recognisable feel, look and check security features are unique and are highlighted as an identification guide for the public.

 

Clear Window: The embossed printing of the numeral 5 is visible from both sides of the banknote.

 

Shadow Image: The image of the Prime Minister's Office is visible when the banknote is held against the light.

 

Micro Printing: The lettering RM5 can be read under a magnifying glass.

 

See-Through Element: The Hibiscus flower element at the front will register perfectly with the same flower element at the back of the banknote.

 

Raised Printing: A raised printing effect that can be felt by touch.

 

Non-Transparent Window: Bank Negara Malaysia’s logo appears, printed in white and visible from both sides of the note.

 

Handling tips

 

Learn how to handle the polymer banknote - tips on what to do and what not to do with the banknote.

 

What to do

• Keep the polymer banknote flat, store banknote in upright position.

• Use paper bands when packing the polymer banknote

• Clean the polymer banknote with soap and cold water if it is stained with oil, beverages, sweat or chemical.

 

What not to do

• Do not expose the polymer banknote to high temperatures by placing on a very hot surface.

• Do not fold the polymer banknote by applying heavy pressure

• Do not use rubber bands to bundle the banknote during packing

• Do not use staples and pins with the banknote.

 

FAQ

 

What are the design and specifications of the RM5 polymer banknote?

The RM5 Polymer banknote retains the basic design, colour, size and certain security features of the existing RM5 paper banknote. However, there are a number of security features which have been removed and added to the RM5 polymer banknote. The details are as follows:

a) Security features retained :

* Raised printing (intaglio)

* See through element

* Micro-Lettering

* Braille feature

* Novel numbering

b) Security features removed :

* Watermark portrait

* Security thread

* Security fibres

* Latent image

c) New security features introduced :

* Clear window with the shadow image of the Prime Minister’s Office at Putrajaya

* The embossed printing of numeral ‘5’ in the window

* The Bank’s logo on the front of the polymer banknote

* The opaque (non-transparent) window on the back of the polymer banknote with the Bank’s logo image

d) Slight changes to the text on the polymer banknotes :

* The size of the Jawi script at the left side is reduced

* The vertical Jawi script and the serial number at the right side of the polymer banknote switch places

* The phrase “WANG KERTAS INI SAH DIPERLAKUKAN DENGAN NILAI” is rephrased to “WANG INI SAH DIPERLAKUKAN DENGAN NILAI”

The design and security features of the RM5 polymer banknotes are described in a poster and brochure that have been issued by Bank Negara Malaysia

 

Why does the RM5 polymer banknote retains the basic design of the existing RM5 paper banknote?

The people of Malaysia are familiar with the design of the RM5 banknote and it was decided that while the banknote will be printed on the new polymer material, it was best to stay with the current design.

 

What are the benefits of the polymer banknotes?

The benefits of polymer banknotes are as follows :

* Effective and easy to recognize security features are incorporated in the notes especially the clear window and shadow image.

* Long lasting whereby with a high level of durability and retention of quality with a significantly extended lifetime.

* Being non-porous the polymer banknotes will not get dirty and go limp. Do not absorb dirt or liquids and they stay clean. The polymer banknote will be clean and hygienic.

* Environmental friendly and at the end of the life of the banknote it can be recycled into useful polymer products.

* Better to process in machines.

 

Will BNM extend the polymer banknotes to other denominations?

BNM needs to conduct proper evaluation of the polymer banknote before deciding about other denominations.

 

Why does BNM select RM5 instead of the other denominations?

RM5 is one of the lower denominations widely used by the public. RM1 was introduced in 2000 and had been coated (varnished) to make it last longer. RM10 was recently upgraded and issued in January 2004. Therefore, RM5 remains the appropriate choice.

 

Will BNM stop issuing RM5 paper banknotes?

Yes, BNM will stop issuing RM5 paper banknotes immediately after the launching of the polymer banknotes. However, RM5 paper banknote remains legal tender but will be withdrawn gradually from circulation.

 

How many countries are issuing polymer banknotes?

To date, 23 countries have issued polymer banknotes either for general circulation or as commemorative.

 

Are the polymer banknotes difficult for public to handle?

The polymer notes will feel and behave slightly different to paper notes, however the differences are minor and should be no problem. Some people may initially consider the polymer notes to be more “slippery” than paper notes and a little different to fold. Members of the public are advised to take a little care when initially handling the polymer notes – it will not take too long to become familiar and confident with the new note technology .

 

How soil resistant are polymer banknotes?

The polymer banknote is a non-absorbent substrate, and as such, does not absorb dirt or liquids. This makes the polymer banknote do not get dirty and appear much cleaner. In addition, the protective coating which is applied over the printing provides a good resistant to soiling from dirt or liquids.

 

How environmentally friendly are polymer banknotes and how to destroy/recycle them?

When withdrawn from circulation, polymer banknotes are granulated, just like paper banknotes. Shredded/waste polymer can be recycled into useful plastic products such as wheelbarrows, compost bins, plumbing fittings and other household and industrial products.

 

Does polymer banknote work in Automatic Teller Machines (ATM) and other dispensing machines?

Yes, polymer banknotes can be used in all banknotes dispensing machines that have been calibrated. However, this RM5 polymer is not an ATM's banknotes.

 

How will polymer banknotes react under high temperatures such as heat from heaters or cookers?

Polymer banknotes are robust and can withstand temperatures of up to 120 degrees Celsius. Above this temperature they begin to shrink and will melt at significantly higher temperatures .

 

How resistant are polymer banknotes to tearing?

It is difficult to tear polymer banknotes.

 

How to handle polymer banknotes?

What to do:

* Keep the polymer banknote flat, store banknote in upright position

* Use paper bands when packing the polymer banknote

* Clean the polymer banknote with soap and cold water if it is stained with oil, beverages, sweat or chemical.

What not to do:

* Do not expose the polymer banknote to high temperatures by placing on a very hot surface

* Do not fold the polymer banknote by applying heavy pressure.

* Do not use rubber bands to bundle the banknote during packing.

* Do not use staples and pins with the banknote.