Danial Cheang Says Pak Nil Played Major Role in Shaping His Hosting Career
Young Presenter Describes Veteran TV Icon as His Biggest Inspiration
PETALING JAYA — Television host and social media personality Danial Cheang has credited veteran entertainer Aznil Nawawi, better known as Pak Nil, for inspiring and guiding him during the early stages of his career in the entertainment industry.
According to Danial, Pak Nil is one of the few television personalities who not only succeeded in building his own legacy but also helped create opportunities for younger talents to grow within the Malaysian broadcasting industry.
The 31-year-old presenter said he grew up watching numerous programmes hosted by Pak Nil, making the veteran entertainer a major influence throughout his childhood.
“I think many people from my generation grew up watching shows hosted by Pak Nil like Tom Tom Bak and Akademi Fantasia. He’s truly an iconic figure in Malaysian entertainment,” he said.
Danial, who won the inaugural season of Malaysian Host Wanted, explained that he often compared Pak Nil with international presenters while growing up.
According to him, the veteran host’s charisma and professionalism convinced him that Malaysia also had television personalities capable of matching global standards.
“I loved watching international programmes and when I watched Pak Nil, I realised Malaysia also had hosts who were just as talented and charismatic,” he said.
Responding to criticism from some online users who claimed Pak Nil is no longer relevant in today’s entertainment scene, Danial said such views overlook the enormous contributions the veteran presenter has made to local broadcasting.
He pointed out that many people may not know Pak Nil actually started his career as a journalist before becoming one of the country’s most recognised television hosts.
Danial said he learned from Thinker Studio chief Adly Syairi about how Pak Nil worked tirelessly during his early years in media, often finding creative alternatives when celebrities refused to cooperate during interviews.
“For me, that shows how hardworking and creative he was in building his own success,” he said.
Danial also praised Pak Nil for nurturing new talents through programmes such as On Air Talent, which he described as an important platform for aspiring hosts.
According to him, the experience gained through the programme helped strengthen his confidence and improve his presenting skills significantly.
“If it wasn’t for that programme and Pak Nil’s guidance, I probably wouldn’t have received opportunities as big as the ones I have today,” he added.
At the same time, Danial acknowledged that the entertainment industry has changed dramatically with the rise of TikTok, YouTube and other social media platforms.
However, he stressed that online popularity does not automatically guarantee success in television presenting because the environment requires greater discipline and professionalism.
“People can be relaxed on social media, but television is different. Some personalities who are great online become uncomfortable when they step into a real TV studio,” he explained.
Among the lessons that continue to inspire him, Danial said Pak Nil always encouraged younger talents to become even better than him instead of merely copying his style.
He believes that mindset reflects Pak Nil’s sincerity in helping the next generation succeed without feeling threatened by emerging talents.
“That’s what I admire most about him. He always wants younger talents to go further and achieve more than he did,” he said.
Earlier this year, Danial Cheang emerged as the first-ever winner of Malaysian Host Wanted after defeating other finalists and taking home RM30,000 in prize money.
-wilayah.com.my
