51.   He said many owners had pledged to have their buildings painted and cleaned after the festive season.

52.   He said the fair price markets were being held to ensure adequate food supply during the coming festive season.

53.   He said the measures would be carried out until the festive season was over.

54.   He said there was sufficient supply of these essential items to meet the demand for the festive season.

55.   He said this was only a temporary setback as consumers were buying more than they should to avoid paying a higher price for the items during the festive season.

56.   He said all essential food items were being distributed for the festive season in all districts through the Federal Agricultural Marketing Authority and the Malaysian Fisheries Development Board.

57.   Hence, it is gratifying to note that the authorities are not turning a blind eye to what has been characterised as a norm during the double festive season.

58.   His office has started its festive season crackdown by curbing the distribution of firecrackers in North Jakarta.

59.   However, the group will proceed with the expansion of its concept shops although again this will depend on the demand, especially with the coming festive season.

60.   However, Dr Mahathir said he wished the people would be prudent in their spending during the festive season.