988 radio announcers and their management team during a media gathering held in George Town, Penang. — Photos: ZHAFARAN NASIB/The Star
LISTENERS of Chinese-language radio station 988 can look forward to using the newly enhanced 988 mobile app in July.
The upgraded version will be available for iOS phones, while the version for Android phones will be announced later.
Radio announcer Chrystina Ng, 35, said the app would feature a wider selection of podcasts to enhance users’ listening experience.
“There will be more podcast selections, including original content.
“It will be more user-friendly too,” she said.
Aside from new voices and faces, Ng said the audience would get to listen to more interesting and original stories instead of recaps of programmes.
“We are trying to enhance the enjoyment of tuning in to 988, not just on radio but also on our website and the app,” she said, adding that more members would be joining the 988 family.
Listeners of 988 will get to hear new voices via podcasts and on air.
Ng (left) showing the current 988 mobile app while Chu holds a display of the enhanced version that will be launched next month.
“We are moving forward with trends and finding out what customers want by engaging with them on social media,” she said.
In May, 988’s listening rate exceeded 2.17 million, according to intelligence platform GfK’s data analytics, based on listeners in peninsular Malaysia.
Besides garnering incredible listenership, 988 also boasts the highest weekly listeners among Chinese radio stations in the northern region.
Ng, who is the host for the Stand By You segment, said the number of listeners had risen for two consecutive quarters.
“We have captivated more Chinese radio listeners in peninsular Malaysia, with an increase from 42% to 45%.
“This is thanks to our loyal listeners, who have supported us throughout the years,” she said.
Morning Up host Joycelyn Chu, 29, said to show their appreciation to fellow listeners, a team of seven deejays from 988 made a trip to Ipoh and Penang for a meet-and-greet session.
“The purpose of this trip was to celebrate and convey our gratitude and appreciation to those who had given us their support.
“We are the number one Chinese radio station, especially in north Malaysia.
“We came here to interact with our audience as well as thank them in person for supporting us all this while,” she said.
To commemorate 988’s 26th anniversary and celebrate its successes, a media gathering was held at The Glasshouse in Prestige Hotel Penang.
Ng and Chu were joined by other radio announcers, including Chan Fong, Brandon Chew, Danny One, Chloe Low and Cassey Soo, as well as 988 general manager Woo Bee Ay.
