The Star Online reported that the four other finalists were Alex Calleja from The Philippines, Katerina Vrana from Greece, Mino van Nassau from India and David Kilimnick from Israel.

“Congratulations @HarithIskander – #LaughFactory’s Funniest Person in the World for 2016,” contest organiser, Laugh Factory, wrote on their official Twitter account.

Besides bragging rights, Harith will also receive the grand prize of USD$100,000 (RM444,845).

The finals of the competition was held at the Hullu Polo Arena on Thursday.

The winner was chosen through global online fan voting, that was open for 24 hours after the show, The Star Online reported.

In the initial stages of the competition, Harith had to defeat 88 other comedians worldwide, including another Malaysian representative, Dr Jason Leong.