Top 10 Asean Stand-Up Comedians Who Are Making Waves Globally

Sep 30, 2024 | Entertainment, Rankings

Southeast Asia’s stand-up comedy scene is no longer confined to local stages—it’s becoming a global phenomenon. In this issue, Top 10 Asia shares its pick of the top ten ASEAN comedians (presented in no particular order) who are leading the charge in bringing their sharp observations and clever humor to international audiences. From sold-out tours to viral online content, they are redefining what it means to be a stand-up comedian in today’s interconnected world. As they continue to push boundaries, these comedians are positioning Southeast Asia as a powerhouse in the global entertainment industry.

Nigel Ng (Malaysia)

Nigel Ng, the Malaysian comedian behind the viral sensation Uncle Roger, took the world by storm in 2020 with his hilarious cooking critiques. In just two years, he amassed over a billion views and 30 million followers, solidifying his place as an internet superstar. By 2023, he completed a sold-out world tour, performing 100 shows for more than 100,000 fans worldwide. In 2024, Nigel expanded his empire by opening the first-ever Uncle Roger-themed restaurant in Kuala Lumpur. He continues to explore exciting new ventures, including a sitcom with ABC Signature, a show with Gordon Ramsay’s Studio Ramsay, and an animated series.

Jacky Ng (Singapore)

Jacky Ng, a Singaporean comedian known for his sharp wit, made waves in 2023 by leaving his full-time job to pursue stand-up comedy full-time. His bold move led to a whirlwind tour across Southeast Asia, cementing his place as one of the region’s rising comedic stars. In 2024, Jacky hit new heights, opening for Ronny Chieng at sold-out shows at Singapore’s Star Theatre and performing alongside veterans in Happy Ever Laughter. He also debuted his comedy special, (Kuku) Bird of Value, while regularly appearing on The More Better Podcast, making waves in Singapore’s comedy scene.

Kavin Jay (Malaysia)

Kavin Jay is a major figure in the Southeast Asian comedy scene who is known for his sharp wit and grumpy, joke-filled delivery. His unapologetically politically incorrect humor offers a satirical take on life, culture, and his experiences as a Malaysian Indian. Kavin’s Netflix special Everybody Calm Down earned widespread acclaim, landing in The Wrap and IndieWire’s top 10 comedy specials. His solo tour Family, Man! has delighted audiences across Malaysia, and his standout show at the Edinburgh Festival has cemented his status as a global comedic talent, continuing to make waves internationally.

Sharul Channa (Singapore)

A powerhouse of comedy and empowerment, Sharul Channa is an enigma on stage that is not to be missed. Blending empowerment and humour, Sharul aims to give women a voice and put Singapore on the global comedy map with her platform. Known for her hit shows Potty Mouth and Disco Sheela & Other Indian Superwomen, Sharul’s performances have packed venues across Asia and Australia. In 2024, she embarked on her global tour Just Joking and her sold-out India tour, Saree Not Sorry. Beyond comedy, Sharul tackles social issues through her work, including Crazy Poor Sita and Am I Old?, making her a trailblazer in comedy with a purpose.

Joanne Kam (Malaysia)

Joanne Kam is an influential figure in Southeast Asia’s comedy scene, dazzling audiences since her breakout in KL’s iconic Boom Boom Room during the ‘90s. With her razor-sharp wit and unapologetic humor, she has headlined everything from Comedy Central Asia specials to sold-out solo shows like La La Lian. Most notably, she was also invited to perform at the prestigious Melbourne International Comedy Festival. On screen, she shined in HBO’s Grisse and took Fringe Festivals in Australia by storm. Whether it’s a comedy club or a corporate event, Kam effortlessly commands the stage, making her one of the most sought-after emcees across Asia.

“Note” Udom Taepanich (Thailand)

Note, one of Thailand’s most celebrated comedians, is best known for his hit solo TV show DIEW, which has captivated Thai audiences since its debut. Often compared to Jerry Seinfeld for his clean humor, Note’s real strength lies in his storytelling, effortlessly turning everyday anecdotes into engaging performances. Beloved for his authenticity and willingness to touch on politics, he’s been a staple in Thai comedy since the ’90s, with viral jokes from that era still fondly remembered. In 2024, Note continues to shine with several Netflix specials, including Sit Down with Stand Up, where he shares his unique stories in interview-style comedy.

Ron Josol (Philippines)

Ron Josol, a Filipino-Canadian comedian, has been entertaining global audiences for over 25 years with his witty take on cultural differences and modern urban life. Known for blending hilarious stories with sharp one-liners, Ron has performed at major festivals like Just for Laughs in Montreal, the Kings ‘n Queens festival in Malaysia, and the Magners Comedy Festival in Asia. He has appeared on Comedy Now in Canada, Gotham Comedy Live for AXS TV, and NBC’s Last Call with Carson Daly. With a long-standing international career, Ron’s comedic style continues to captivate audiences worldwide.

Mo Sidik (Indonesia)

Mohamad Ali Sidik Zamzami, known as Mo Sidik, is a beloved Indonesian comedian and entrepreneur who has captivated audiences with his sharp wit and corporate humor. Starting as a radio announcer in Bandung in 1995, Mo transitioned to stand-up comedy, making it to the top 5 of Stand Up Comedy Indonesia. By 2017, he was touring the globe with his solo show Fattitude, performing in 13 countries. Now co-founder of a comedy production company, Mo is expanding his influence through live shows, films, and comedy IP across Indonesia, while balancing his entrepreneurial ventures in edu-tech and export-import businesses.

Sarah Peng (Singapore)

Sarah Peng, a China-born comedian, has been lighting up the global comedy scene since 2014. Known for her sharp wit and flair, she quickly gained recognition after performing stand-up in English during open-mics in China. Beyond comedy, she hosts The Sarah Peng Show and teaches law at a university, embodying both brains and humor. With four degrees and nearly a decade in comedy, Sarah continues to connect audiences through laughter, believing in the power of comedy as cross-cultural communication.

Kuah Jenhan (Malaysia)

Kuah Jenhan, one of Malaysia’s comedy gems, had spent 16 years perfecting his craft as a stand-up comedian before the pandemic forced him to pivot. At 34, he stepped into the corporate world as Creative Content Director at The Chariot Agency, where his sharp observational skills translated into award-winning advertising insights. Jenhan’s comedy career, spanning sold-out shows in Australia, Hong Kong, and Singapore, remains his passion, even as he juggles his role in advertising. With six solo shows under his belt and numerous accolades in both comedy and advertising, Jenhan continues to challenge expectations—on and off the stage.

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