Harith, world’s funniest person

PETALING JAYA: It’s no joke – a Malaysian is the funniest person in the world!

Malaysian comedian Harith Iskander was crowned 2016 Funniest Person in the World competition in Levi, Finland, yesterday.

He beat four other finalists – Alex Calleja from the Philippines, Katerina Vrana from Greece, Mino van Nassau from India and David Kilimnick from Israel.

“I’m thrilled to be declared the winner of the competition.

“It’s been a long journey here, about three to four months, but I’ve received so much support from Malaysians, from the media, The Star especially,” said Harith when contacted.

“It hasn’t really sunk in yet. At the moment, I haven’t really gathered my thoughts.

“It’s really cold here but a big thank you to everyone who has helped me get here. I’m looking forward to coming home,” he added.

Just for laughs: Harith leaving the crowd in stitches at one of his shows.

Harith said he was delighted to have had the opportunity to display the Malaysian flag on an international platform and that, it was time to put “Malaysian comedy on the world map”.

“I’m absolutely grateful to have fans all over Malaysia, South-East Asia, the UK and Australia.

“It’s never possible without the support of my fans!” the comedian said.

As the winner, Harith will receive the grand prize of US$100,000 (RM444,845).

Second place Calleja took home US$10,000 (RM44,484) while Vrana bagged US$5,000 (RM22,242) for coming in third.

The competition is organised by Laugh Factory, a global comedy chain in the United States.

“Congratulations @HarithIskander- #LaughFactory’s Funniest Person in the World for 2016!” posted the organiser on their official Twitter account.

Harith and other comedians had performed in the competition finals at the Hullu Polo Arena in Levi, Finland, on Thursday.

The winner was chosen through global online fan voting, which was open for 24 hours after the finals.

Harith defeated 88 other comedians from all over the world, including fellow Malaysian Dr Jason Leong, to reach the finals stage of the competition.