Date of Issue : 8 Oct 2019
Postmark : Singapore
Denomination : 1st Local, 70c, 90c and S$1.30
Stamp Size : 55.5 mm x 35 mm (1st Local, 70c and 90c); 75.8 mm x 35 mm (S$1.30)
Paper : Unwatermarked
Printing Process : Offset Lithography
The official residence of the President of Singapore and gazetted as a national monument in 1992, the Istana is a 41-hectare oasis set back from the bustle of Orchard Road. Built in 1869 as the Government House for the British rulers, the building was set upon a nutmeg plantation with remarkable views of the town and the harbour. The Government House was later renamed as Istana Negara Singapura in 1959, the year when Singapore achieved self-governance, before becoming The Istana in 1965 when Singapore declared sovereignty. This stamp issue for the 150th anniversary of Istana is released in honour of an icon of the nation's national heritage, dignity and hospitality. The stamps feature sketches of the Istana – Entrance Gate to Istana (1st Local), captured Japanese artillery gun (70c), Istana Villa (90c) and Istana front facade (S$1.30). The prominent use of human figures in the designs marks an important feature of the Istana as an official venue of hospitality.