GEORGE TOWN (THE STAR/ASIA NEWS NETWORK) - The Malaysian police have detained an Indonesian woman for allegedly saying the word "bomb" three times at the Penang International Airport.

The woman, 32, apparently told the authorities that her luggage contained a bomb at the domestic departure terminal at about 9am on Tuesday (Jan 12), and was immediately taken away by policemen.

The woman was supposed to take a flight to Kuala Lumpur before continuing her journey back to Jakarta.

Balik Pulau police district chief Supt Lai Fah Hin said the case was being investigated for criminal intimidation under Section 506 of the Penal Code.

He said the woman is expected to be charged in court on Wednesday.