Penang: The recent congestion at Penang International Airport must be addressed immediately by the relevant authorities to ensure smooth passenger processing and to preserve Penang's reputation as a key tourism destination. Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said the congestion was linked to constraints in a newly implemented system at the airport that is still in its adjustment phase, while flight arrivals increased almost at the same time.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Chief Minister Chow explained that delays in processing passengers from earlier flights can create an adverse effect when several flights arrive simultaneously, resulting in congestion such as reported. He conveyed these remarks to reporters after launching the Nibong Tebal Festival (NTF) 2026.

Also present at the event were Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek, state Local Government, Town and Country Planning Committee chairman H'ng Mooi Lye, and Seberang Perai City Council mayor Datuk Baderul Amin Abdul Hamid. On the organisation of NTF, Chow described it as an important initiative in efforts to uplift Seberang Perai through development anchored on the creative economy, heritage, and culture.