Deejays Chrystina Ng (left) and Piao Min announcing the lineup of artistes, headlined by famed Power Station from Taiwan (top of screen), who will perform at the fest at Esplanade in Penang. — ZHAFARAN NASIB/The Star
PENANG’S Padang Kota Lama, also known as the Esplanade, will come alive with music, culture and community spirit during the upcoming After Work Fest by 988 FM from July 26 to 27.
It is organised by popular Chinese-language radio station 988 FM in conjunction with its 29th anniversary.
The event is expected to draw some 10,000 people over two days with live music performances, creative workshops, charity initiatives and a bustling bazaar featuring some 50 booths.
One of the main highlights will be a performance by legendary Taiwanese rock duo Power Station.
Other artistes set to perform include Bestards, Z-Chen, AP, Fuying, Ryota, Jud, Abin Uriah, Dior and Trevor.
988 FM general manager Woo Bee Ay said the event aimed to strengthen the station’s relationship with its northern region listeners.
“We would like to connect with our listeners in this region.
“Besides the performances and activities, we also have a charity haircut campaign.
“The funds raised will benefit Locks of Hope, National Cancer Society Malaysia and Childhood Cancer Caregivers Support Organisation,” she said during a press conference to announce the event.
Woo says 988 FM aims to strengthen its relationship with its northern region listeners.
Tourism Malaysia deputy chairman Datuk Yeoh Soon Hin, who was also present, said the event reflected the inclusive and vibrant nature of Malaysia’s tourism sector.
“This event is expected to bring communities together and spark interest from across the globe.
“As we continue to boost Malaysia’s tourism sector, this event presents a timely opportunity to build momentum towards Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026).
“It allows us to showcase not only our rich culture but also our readiness to welcome the world with fresh experiences and warm hospitality,” he said.
Yeoh said Malaysia recorded 38 million international visitors in 2024, marking a 31.1% increase from the previous year and surpassing pre-pandemic levels by 8.3%.
He added that the arrivals generated RM106.78bil in tourism receipts, a 43.7% year-on-year growth and 20% higher than in 2019.
“In Penang alone, we recorded over eight million tourist arrivals in 2024, with a notable rise in both domestic and international visitors.
“Penang is not just a destination but also an immersive experience that offers Unesco heritage sites, distinctive cuisine, vibrant culture and biodiversity while serving as a key travel hub,” he said.
Penang tourism and creative economy committee chairman Wong Hon Wai welcomed the festival, calling it one of the fastest growing lifestyle events in Malaysia.
“This festival is not just another concert as it brings together music, culture and the community in a vibrant setting.
“We are proud that Penang has been chosen as the host this year to mark a milestone for our tourism and entertainment landscape.
“It will feature a diverse lineup of local, regional and international talents, promising an unforgettable experience for all,” he said.
Wong added that Penang’s appeal as a destination continued to grow with 13 new hotels opened since August 2023, contributing over 2,300 rooms to the state’s accommodation capacity.
Entrance to the After Work Fest is free, with activities running from 3pm to 10pm on both days.
