The trophy was presented by the Communications and Multimedia Minister Salleh Said Keruak at a function here.

On Dec 10 last year, Harith won Laugh Factory’s Funniest Person in the World title in Finland after beating five comedians from around the world. The competition first began in September with about 80 stand-up comedians vying for a spot in the final.

Harith, 50, had the last laugh and took home US$100,000 (RM443,000).

Meanwhile, Harith told reporters that he would like to thank the ministry for the recognition.

“I was shocked by what happened. It is the highest award that I received in my 26 years as an artiste.”

Harith said he would go on a road show in the United States next month to meet the conditions of the organiser for winning the competition.

“I will use the opportunity to promote Malaysian stand-up comedy and take it to a higher level.”

He plans to hold a big show at the end of the year to promote the talents of Malaysian stand-up comedians in an effort to develop the industry in this country.