The “UP” series was issued by the Malaysia Basketball Association (MABA) in 2017, branded as “Unique Plates” (UP). Proceeds were intended to fund basketball athletes and development programs. All UP 1-9999 were offered via tender. This came at a time when various sports bodies were given permission to raise funds through special plates. Bidders included basketball fans, association members, and plate hobbyists drawn by the simple “UP” prefix (which implies upward/progress). Notably, MABA’s own officials secured some of the prime numbers. UP 6 and UP 8 were among those that saw high interest (Chinese buyers like 6 and 8 for luck). After auctions, unsold UP plates could be purchased at fixed premiums. By mid-2018, the UP series was wrapped up. While not widely publicized beyond sports circles, it succeeded in raising some revenue for Malaysian basketball. Today, UP plates pop up sporadically – perhaps on a car owned by a basketball patron or someone who liked the positive connotation of “UP.” They are part of the mosaic of special plates championing sports causes in that era. Key Facts: Issue Date: 2017 Issuance Range: 1 - 9999 Rarity: Limited (9,999 plates) Transfer Rules: Standard