Hong Kong Acting Postmaster General Joanna Choi has announced that a special stamp issue with the theme of "Special Attractions of the 18 Districts in Hong Kong " would be released on July 18, according to a government press release on Monday.

"Hong Kong is small, but despite its size, the city exudes charm in each of its districts, offering a kaleidoscope of attractions--trendy hot spots, state-of-the-art skyscrapers, historic architecture, venerable customs and bewitching landscapes, " the Acting Postmaster General said.

Each of the stamps portrays three different elements of its own particular district. Some incorporate a cultural aspect as well as a famous landmark or a particularly popular shopping mall, others have a religious connection or a museum represented, and all are in one denomination of 1.40 HK dollars.

The set of special stamps is designed by Shirman Lai and printed in photogravure by Joh Enschede B.V from the Netherlands.

Commenting on the special stamp issue, Choi said she believed that this stamp issue was representative of many attractions and places of interest to be found in the different districts and is also a tribute to the District Councils which so ably promoted public and community activities in their districts.

The 18 districts were originally identified via the District Administration Scheme which began in 1982 in Hong Kong with the establishment of a district board (renamed as district council), she said.

This served to achieve a more effective coordination of government efforts in the provision of services and facilities at the district level and to promote public participation in district affairs, she added.

(Xinhua News Agency June 20, 2006)