'More than Monkeys' on display in Singapore to usher in Year of Monkey

Besides knowledge on Chinese astrology, the exhibition may also arouse people's awareness to protect the primates, as visitors can get more information about global issues, such as deforestation, poaching and conservation, with less known facts about the primates and their everyday habits.

There are over 260 types of monkeys living around the world and they are of different shapes, sizes and colors. "Old World" monkeys live in Africa and Asia, while "New World" monkeys live in Central and South America. Many primates, such as the golden langur and common squirrel monkey, are on the endangered list because they are being hunted as souvenirs or pets.

Besides being prey to other animals, primates are also losing their homes and lives to deforestation and poaching. Wildlife organizations around the world are trying to save them and stem the disappearance of many species of primates.

"Stamps are excellent educational tools to learn about the world around us. SPM's zodiac animal series of exhibitions is one way through which we convey more about local and international traditions, while also giving visitors the chance to learn more about the zodiac animals," said Tresnawati Prihadi, general manager of SPM.

Specially designed for children and families, the exhibition includes many interactive activities. Children can listen to the call of the loudest monkey, help the chimpanzee catch ants from the ant hill, test their ability at the jigsaw tree and spot for monkey-related terms at the word search puzzle.

The exhibition will run from Friday to Sept 25.