If you've ever walked into a stationery shop in Sungai Petani and asked for "a stamp", you probably got a follow-up question that felt like an exam: "Rubber, self-inking, pre-ink or polymer ah?"
Seri Jadi has made custom stamps in Sungai Petani since 1999. The practical choice depends on the impression size, artwork detail, ink format and how often the stamp will be used. This guide explains the differences without relying on a one-size-fits-all price or lifespan promise.
The 5 stamp types you'll see in Malaysia
1. Traditional rubber stamp (with separate ink pad)
A rubber die is mounted on a wooden or plastic handle. You press it onto a separate ink pad, then onto paper. Because the ink pad is separate, you can choose an ink compatible with the intended surface and impression.
- Best for: very occasional use (e.g. a "PAID" stamp used once a week)
- Quote factors: die size, handle, artwork and required ink
- Care: clean and store the die according to the material and ink instructions
2. Self-inking stamp (Shiny, Trodat, COLOP)
The workhorse. The ink pad is built into the body — every time you stamp, the rubber die rolls onto the pad automatically. Clean impressions, no fingers stained, fast for high-volume use.
- Best for: company, address or status wording used repeatedly
- Quote factors: body model, impression size, ink colour and die artwork
- Care: follow the model instructions for pad replacement or re-inking
3. Pre-ink stamp (also called "flash" stamp)
Photo-quality impressions. The "rubber" is actually a porous polymer pre-filled with ink — so the impression is super crisp, perfect for company logos with fine detail. Re-inking is done by injecting ink into the top.
- Best for: artwork or logos where fine impression detail matters
- Quote factors: impression size, detail, body model and ink colour
- Care: use only the ink and re-inking method specified for the selected model
4. Polymer stamp
Made by exposing a polymer sheet to UV light through a film negative. Produces a fine, durable rubber die. Often used for traditional rubber stamps with detailed artwork.
- Best for: custom artistic stamps, school crests, signature reproductions
- Quote factors: plate size, artwork complexity, mount and ink
- Care: avoid unsuitable solvents, heat and storage pressure on the plate
5. Dater & numberer stamps
Self-inking stamps with adjustable wheels — change the date/number on the fly. Found at every reception desk in Malaysia.
- Best for: "RECEIVED [date]" stamps, sequential numbering for filing
- Quote factors: date format, text plate, number mechanism, size and model
Quick comparison: which one is right for you?
| Your need | Best choice | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Repeated company details on invoices & letters | Self-inking | Internal ink pad is convenient for repetitive use |
| Stamp with company logo & fine detail | Pre-ink | Crisp impression every time |
| "RECEIVED [today's date]" | Self-inking dater | Adjustable wheels save you from buying new stamps |
| Signature stamp for boss who hates signing things | Pre-ink | Sharper signature reproduction |
| Address stamp used occasionally | Traditional rubber | Separate ink pad can suit occasional use |
| School crest or detailed artwork | Polymer or pre-ink | Choose after checking detail and intended surface |
Common mistake: choosing a body before checking the final wording and available impression area. Start with the exact text, logo and recipient requirements, then select a model that fits legibly.
What details should a company stamp show?
There is no safe universal answer because banks, agencies, customers and document recipients can apply different requirements. Confirm the required wording, registration number, shape and size with the recipient before production.
Details commonly supplied for a quote include:
- Full company name as registered with SSM
- Company registration number (e.g. 123456-A or the new 12-digit format)
- Any designation, address, logo or wording required by the recipient
Seri Jadi can recommend a body and impression size after seeing the exact content, but the receiving institution determines whether the completed stamp is acceptable for its process.
How long should a stamp last?
There is no single honest lifespan number. It changes with the model, die or plate material, impression size, ink, paper, stamping pressure, storage and frequency of use.
- Self-inking: a fading impression may indicate that the pad needs the model-specific ink or replacement.
- Pre-ink: use only the compatible ink and method specified for that body.
- Traditional rubber: keep the die clean and avoid prolonged heat, sunlight or pressure against the impression face.
Where to buy in Sungai Petani
Seri Jadi makes the stamp types described above at its shop on Jalan Taman Indah, Sungai Petani. Timing depends on the model, impression size, quantity, artwork readiness and current production schedule. Suitable enquiries from elsewhere in Kedah, including Kulim, are welcome; fulfilment is confirmed per job.
You can browse our stamp catalogue or WhatsApp the wording, size, quantity, intended use and required date to 010-451 8088 for a current quote.
Need a stamp made?
Send the exact wording, size, quantity, intended use and required date so we can confirm a suitable option, price and timing.
WhatsApp 010-451 8088Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a rubber stamp and a self-inking stamp?
A traditional rubber stamp uses a separate ink pad. A self-inking stamp carries its ink pad inside the body and re-inks the die as the mechanism resets. Self-inking is convenient for frequent repetitive use; traditional rubber can suit occasional use, unusual sizes or separately selected inks.
How long does a self-inking stamp last?
Service life varies by model, impression size, ink, paper, pressure, storage and frequency of use. A fading impression may require model-specific re-inking or a replacement pad.
Are pre-ink stamps better than self-inking?
Pre-ink can reproduce fine detail well, while self-inking uses a replaceable internal pad and is convenient for repetitive office text. Compare the artwork, size, ink colour, frequency of use and available models.
How much does a custom rubber stamp cost in Sungai Petani?
Current price depends on the body or handle, impression size, plate or die, ink format, artwork preparation and quantity. Send those details for a current quote and confirmed timing.
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