In these down times, what we all need is a good laugh. TakeOut Comedy founder Jami Gong is certainly doing his part to spread the laughter. Last week, he took his stand-up evangelism to Singapore, presenting the first ever open-mic event in the Lion City and teaching a comedy workshop that attracted more than 60 students, all trying to deliver Singlish zingers. 'It was amazing,' Gong said (pictured). 'It's great to discover new talent there. They were all excited about the possibilities of doing what we have created here in Hong Kong. The potential is enormous.'

So, are our rival city-state comics funnier? 'It's all relative. Maybe one day, I will organise a Hong Kong versus Singapore stand-up competition and find out.'

Beyond Singapore, Gong is also planning other regional expansion plans. 'We are now talking to people in Shanghai, Manila and Tokyo to do shows. We are debuting in Macau soon, so it's great to bring more laughter to Asia.'