GEORGE TOWN: Drawing a vibrant mix of tourists and locals, 988 FM’s After Work Fest kicked off with a pulsating celebration of music, food and fun.

On its first day yesterday, the event drew a massive crowd who revelled in a high-energy concert and a bustling bazaar, turning the festival into a memorable weekend experience.

There was something for everyone, from lively musical performances and engaging stage activities to more than 50 creative and artisanal booths at the Esplanade, Penang.

Yesterday’s celebration featured performances by Abin Fang, Uriah See, Diorlying Tan, Trevor Kuo, Ryota Katayama and Z-Chen Zhang.

The popular “Infinite Good Finds Market” offered arts and crafts workshops, along with booths selling handmade ornaments, accessories, trinkets, snacks and culinary delights.

A crowd favourite was the charity hair donation campaign, where participants received free haircuts for donating their hair.

Those opting for regular cuts paid a fee, with proceeds channelled towards charitable causes.

The two-day fest is organised by popular Chinese-language radio station 988 FM in conjunction with its 29th anniversary.

It embodies the spirit of “Play with Passion, Play with Purpose,” in line with the station’s annual theme “Infinite Play”, to help participants de-stress joyfully and unlock creativity and energy.

As for today, one of the main highlights will be a performance by legendary Taiwanese rock duo Power Station.

The group, which made waves when it debuted in 1997, is set to perform some of its biggest hits and bring a sense of nostalgia to the crowd.

Other artistes include Bestards, Anson Poon, Chronicles Ong Fu Ying and JUD Chen.

Tourism Malaysia deputy chairman Datuk Yeoh Soon Hin said the event augured well for the state’s tourism industry.

“We must support it as it will bring excitement and interest to Penang.

“It is an attraction point and will encourage more people to come here and enjoy our food and other activities.

“I always believe a partnership between the private sector and the government will help to boost our tourism sector,” he added.

Star Media Group group chief executive officer Chan Seng Fatt said he was happy to see the crowd growing steadily throughout the evening.

“I am looking forward to the whole event on both days including the international performance,” he said.

He noted that 988 FM has been around for 29 years.

“For many years, it has been positioned as the number one Chinese station in Malaysia.

“That speaks volumes and I hope with the support of our listeners, we will continue to grow and hold more events like these in the future,” he added.

988 FM senior general manager Woo Bee Ay said the turnout was better than expected, with people arriving early to beat the heat.

She said she hoped to hold more events like this in the future.

“Bring in music, entertainment and crafts so younger and older people can come together and celebrate our anniversary.”

Also present were Penang tourism and creative economy committee chairman Wong Hon Wai as well as Star Media Group board member Loh Chee Can, chief operating officer Lydia Wang and client brand marketing (bureaus) general manager Simone Liong.

Entrance to the After Work Fest is free, with activities running from 3pm to 10pm today.