‘If anything happens, we’ll crowdfund!’ Anwar jokes with former ‘Daily Show’ host Trevor Noah ahead of sold-out PJ gig

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim shares a laugh with South African comedian and former ‘The Daily Show’ host Trevor Noah during their meeting today, ahead of the second night of Noah’s sold-out shows in Petaling Jaya. — Picture via Facebook/Anwar Ibrahim

By Malay Mail

First Published: Tuesday, 10 Nov 2026 4:51 PM MYT

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 10 — Trevor Noah has received some last-minute comedy advice from an unlikely source — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, who joked about crowdfunding a rescue if the comedian’s punchlines get him into trouble.

The South African stand-up star and former The Daily Show host paid a visit to Anwar today, with the two swapping stories about politics, humour and just about everything in between.

And judging by Anwar’s Facebook post, there was plenty of laughter.

“It was a pleasure to welcome Trevor Noah today. We had the chance to chat about politics, humour and all sorts of other things, with plenty of laughter along the way,” Anwar wrote.

The prime minister also revealed that he had offered Noah a few pointers on what might — or might not — go down well on stage.

“I also managed to share a few pointers on the kind of jokes he could bring to the stage tonight. Hopefully, no one takes offence!” he quipped.

But Anwar saved his best punchline for last.

“Anyway, don’t worry, Trevor. If anything happens tonight, we’ll all chip in and crowdfund together!” he added, signing off with laughing emojis.

The playful exchange comes as Noah prepares to wrap up his two-night Malaysian engagement at Idea Live Arena in Petaling Jaya tonight.

The Emmy-winning comedian performed his first show yesterday, with tonight’s 8pm performance added after the original November 9 date sold out.

Both shows have since sold out, according to organiser LOL Asia. 

Noah, who hosted The Daily Show from 2015 to 2022, built his international reputation on sharp political satire, cultural observations and his ability to turn serious subjects into comedy.

His Malaysian performances form part of his 2026 Asia tour, which also included sold-out dates in Singapore and Hong Kong. 

The comedian is also a bestselling author, with his memoir Born a Crime, about growing up under apartheid in South Africa, becoming an international hit.