Malaysia Airports (MAHB) says major upgrading works are being carried out at the Penang International Airport.

Malaysia Airports said in a statement today the airport is still operational and they are making every effort to minimise disruptions.

The unusually bad weather over the past month has worsened the situation with rainfall of up to 43mm, which is considered abnormal, compared to 10-15mm on normal days.

The upgrading works, which involve replacing 44 submersible pumps located all over the airport to drain out water during heavy rains, would temporarily reduce the effectiveness of the drainage system.

Immediate action together with contractors and the state government are being taken to overcome this, Malaysia Airports said, adding that continuous improvements to the airport drainage will be performed on an ongoing basis and will be completed by June 2012.

- Bernama