Heart and Soul: Grandpa’s stories of old money


Towards the end of World War II, the Japanese administration in Malaya printed a massive amount of "banana money", like this old note. Photos: Gary Lit Ying Loong

During a recent long weekend, I took the opportunity to do some long overdue packing at home. While clearing my storeroom, I chanced upon a bag of coins and notes neglected for many years. It was given to me by my late grandfather in the 1960s.

My grandpa doted on all 60 of his grandchildren. He would give us a gift each time we obtained top marks for our tests. Invariably, it would be either one of his old coins or dollar notes.

Save 30% OFF The Star Digital Access

Monthly Plan

RM 13.90/month

RM 9.73/month

Billed as RM 9.73 for the 1st month, RM 13.90 thereafter.

Best Value

Annual Plan

RM 12.33/month

RM 8.63/month

Billed as RM 103.60 for the 1st year, RM 148 thereafter.

Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel for breaking news alerts and key updates!

Next In Living

Human Writes: Building back better in Malaysia in 2026
Katz Tales: Getting the cat to try pet steps, step by step
Berry good for you: Eat polyphenols, nutritionists say
Online marketplace in US opens doors for makers with disabilities
Heart And Soul: The teacher whose belief in me shaped my destiny
Racing towards great white sharks in Australia
Rome's two brand-new metro stations are also archaeological museums
What is mutual aid? Why are more people turning to informal efforts to help each other?
Heart And Soul: A love letter to Ipoh, where the rain remembers
Durian growers scent opportunity as Chinese demand spikes

Others Also Read