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Members of the public are invited to take part in "0.2- Most Inspiring Persons in Hong Kong AIDS Epidemic" Poll organised by the Red Ribbon Centre.

A spokesman of Red Ribbon Centre said today (September 19) that the first HIV case was reported in Hong Kong 20 years ago. "A novel disease at that time, HIV infection was met with panic and fear. It was a death sentence to the public. Throughout the years, we have gained a better understanding of the disease. We have witnessed changes in areas of HIV research, treatment and care, acceptance level and the quality of life of people with HIV infection," the spokesman said.

"Members of the public are now invited to select the people who most inspire them in the Hong Kong AIDS epidemic. It is hoped that from these inspirational people and their stories, we can raise awareness in the community by reflecting on lessons learnt in the last 0.2 century [two decades], and prepare for the challenges ahead posed by HIV infection in Hong Kong."

The poll is divided into two phases - the nomination phase (September 20 to October 2) and the polling phase (October 19 to November 5).

Individuals and organisations are invited to nominate people they consider most inspiring in AIDS-related activities. Nominations can be made from September 20 to October 2 on the website

http://www.mingpao.com/redribbon/nomination.htm, by fax (2505 3479) or by mail to the co-organiser (Ming Pao Marketing Department, 15/F, Block A, Ming Pao Industrial Centre, 18 Ka Yip Street, Chai Wan, Hong Kong).

A vetting panel has been formed to select the 10 most inspiring people. The panel will look at how well their stories raise awareness and promote acceptance in society. Souvenirs will be awarded to those who nominated the selected people.

The poll will run from October 19 to November 5. Individuals can vote online at http://www.mingpao.com/redribbon/voting.htm for the people who inspire them most among the 10 selected nominees. Participants will be given the "Love under the Sun" VCD as a token of thanks.

Poll results will be announced around mid-November. Awards will be given to the 10 most inspiring people on World AIDS Day on December 1 this year.

The public can call the Red Ribbon Centre at 2304 6268 for further details.

Ends/Sunday, September 19, 2004

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