The government on Tuesday said it will roll out a new ticketing system which can deal with 20,000 users simultaneously – 10 times more than its current handling capacity.

Buyers have complained of website congestion and long waiting times for popular events in recent years.

The Leisure and Cultural Services Department said that the revamped system, which launches on Thursday, will use cloud technology to handle a larger volume of ticket purchases.

It said a new URBTIX mobile app, with more functions such as in-app payment and an e-wallet for storing electronic tickets, will also be available for download from Thursday.

The spokesman added that the maximum number of users can be further increased if necessary, and that people will be charged a $9 handling fee per ticket bought through the internet, mobile app and telephone booking services.