MCA wants venue for Penang Balloon Fiesta moved

GEORGE TOWN: Penang MCA today urged state government to change the location of hot air balloon fiesta due to traffic congestion and close proximity to Penang Hospital.
Party complaint bureau deputy chief Tan Eng Hin said the two-day event at Padang Polo on Feb 4 and 5 will cause traffic gridlock to motorists as well as ambulances passing through Jalan Sepoy Lines.
He said the expected congestion will delay ambulances timing from taking patients while making it difficult to get into hospital as well.
He added the fiesta fireworks and musical performances will also disturb in-patients at the hospital.
"We are not against the event but do it in another place," he told reporters after submitting a memorandum to an officer from state government in Komtar.
Several MCA members were seen holding banners objecting state government's decision to hold it near hospital.
The event which expected to attract locals and tourists have been held since 2015.
Other activities lined-up include an inflatable playground, creative workshops, paddled boat rides, reverse bungee jumping and a giant trampoline.
Tan said he had received up to 10 complaints from public last year on the massive congestion caused by the event.