The North East Line (NEL) is the second major MRT line to be built since the completion of the main MRT network in 1990. Spanning 20km in length, NEL consists of 16 stations and runs from Harbourfront (previously known as World Trade Centre) through busy downtown and Serangoon to Punggol.

The three stamps in this issue mark the start of the passenger service for NEL, a significant milestone in the transportation of Singapore. To be released on 18 July 2003, the stamps are graphically illustrated by the same designer, Ng Keng Seng, who illustrated the 1988 stamp issue on "Singapore Mass Rapid Transit System".

A unique miniature sheet comprising of the three new NEL stamps together with the three stamps issued in 1988 is also produced, capturing visually the two main milestones in the history of Singapore Mass Rapid Transit System in one sheet.

In addition to the pre-cancelled First Day Covers for the mint stamps and miniature sheet as well as the Presentation Pack, a set of 3 maxicards is also available.

Collectors can also add in their collection a set of identical maxicards sporting the different cancellations of the various NEL stations that are open for operation.