A small group of Penang MCA leaders held a brief protest at the entrance to the state administration offices in Komtar this morning, insisting that the venue be changed.

The event is scheduled to be held next weekend, at the same field, where it has been held in previous years.

In a memorandum sent to the state, Penang MCA said the venue was unsuitable based on past experiences as traffic around the area would be hard to control.

It was also stated that the traffic situation could be detrimental to patients being rushed in ambulances to the nearby hospital.

Penang MCA also said activities like stage shows, fireworks displays and other entertainment programmes could potentially disturb patients.

“We are not against the event. The location is just not suitable,” the memorandum read.

Penang MCA public complaints bureau deputy chief Tan Eng Hin said he has received almost 10 calls from people unhappy about the event.

Penang MCA Youth deputy secretary Ooi Teik Liang said a police report was also lodged last week over the matter.

“There have been complaints already, but why do they insist on having it at the same location?

Earlier this week, event organiser AKA Balloon Sdn Bhd chief executive officer Izzati Khairudin said Padang Polo was still the best venue for the event with trees that offer protection from the wind.

She said said 120 police, Rela personnel and others would be controlling traffic around the venue to ensure minimal disruption.

Penang Island City Council (MBPP) will also have tow trucks on standby to take action against motorists who park indiscriminately.

While spectators are urged to take public transport, there will be 1,200 parking lots at six nearby locations and 200 additional bays for motorcycles at the Penang Nursing College on Jalan Residensi.