To those who might not know it, phillumeny is the niche hobby of collecting vintage matchbox labels and other match-related items such as matchbooks, match covers and match safes.

Back in the day 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 but the decline in smoking and the invention of cheap cigarette lighters has taken its toll on the industry.

Even so, a couple of manufacturers still survive, such as the Kelantan Match Factory in Kota Bharu, established in 1933.

These old-time businesses decorated their matchboxes with unique logos and attractive images to promote their brands.

As such, many of these miniature artworks have become collectors items for avid phillumenists.

This article first appeared on Malaysia Traveller.