KUANTAN, June 22 — Smart Stream Resources Sdn Bhd (SSRSB), which operates the Smart petrol station in rural areas and settlements nationwide has announced that all its 64 stations nationwide will operate on the first day of Hari Raya.

Managing director Mohd Khairuddin Saimon said the company would also ensure there was sufficient supply of fuel at all outlets during the festive period.

"Even if the petrol station is shut down, it will only be during the two hours when Muslims perform the Raya prayers. The station owners must also post a notice on the closure to inform customers.

"Those who intend to close the station for a longer duration should also inform us at the headquarters, but as of now, we will not accept such an application,” he told reporters here today.

Mohd Khairuddin added that based on previous experience, not many people filled up their tanks during the prayer time, and the temporary closure would allow the owners and employees to join in the prayers, as well.

"The peak period at Smart petrol stations is on the eve of Hari Raya and in the afternoon, the next day, when most people head out to celebrate,” he said.

SSRSB was formed in 2003, and obtained approval from the domestic trade, cooperatives and consumerism ministry (KPDNKK) to supply fuel in rural areas, especially Felda and Felcra land settlements.

The company which gets its supply from Petron was established mainly to overcome the lack of major petrol stations in rural areas, as well as for safety reasons. — Bernama