1990 is a special year for all Singaporeans. It is a year to reflect on our past, take stock of the present and look forward to the future with confidence.

As much as we are proud of all the political and economic developments Singapore has achieved over the last 25 years, we can be as proud of our clean and green environment. Our natural habitat is an integral part of the heritage which we now enjoy and can try to preserve for future generations as well.

The Ferns of Singapore special stamp issue is thus a fitting end to this year's stamp programme. Through this issue, we can reflect on our natural environment. The stamp designs, executed through the medium of watercolour by Poh Siew Wah, shows the beauty of four types of ferns commonly found in Singapore.

The Stag's Horn Fern normally seen growing from the branches of forest and wayside trees, is depicted on the 15 cents stamp. Maiden Hair Ferns and Bird's Nest Ferns which are equally popular with houseproud Singaporeans, are on the 35 cents stamp and 75 cents stamp respectively. The Rabbit's Foot Fern, commonly used to enhance floral arrangements, is on the $1 stamp. The stamp designs show the lush green foliage as well as a close-up of each type of fern. Collectors who have ferns in their homes may want to buy a full stamp sheet to mount on their walls to enhance their decor.

The four ferns are featured in outline form cut out of coloured cellophane papers. The colour backgrounds are four special colours on the first day covers. Presentation packs and posters for this stamp issue also have the same design concept.