Exclusive: Qin Kai on Hosting her First Asian Television Awards

With the 26th Asian Television Awards fast approaching and many exciting features and programmes – such as the Instagram Live Chats with media personalities like Morissette, Julie Tan, and Bowie Cheung – leading up to it, entertainment lovers all around the region should be well-versed in everything television once the big day comes. 

Much like any event of sheer grandeur, the ATA has got itself an impressive lineup of personalities from Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam, and the Philippines to co-host the event. Below, we talk to Channel 8’s ‘Hello Singapore’ turned ATA presenter Qin Kai about her journey to presenting, what she’s most looking forward to in hosting the event, and her future plans.

What inspired you to become a news presenter?

I wanted to pursue a career in the media industry since I was young as I loved watching TV programmes. I remember when I was about 5 years old, the first thing I did after coming back from kindergarten was to watch TV instead of playing with toys like most children at that age would do.

I consider myself a visual person as I learn faster from images and videos. I always find strength and comfort in words, and I am constantly inspired by stories, TV programmes, films and art. I can’t remember how many times I’ve teared up simply after watching a meaningful series or reading a meaningful article. Perhaps this is also what made me join the media industry - knowing how media can influence and shape people’s perspectives. I feel that it is my privilege to be part of the ecosystem to inform, educate and influence.

After completing my secondary school education, I did my Diploma in Media and Communications at Singapore Polytechnic. I subsequently attained my Bachelor Degree in Arts, Chinese Studies at NTU, to pursue my goals and dreams in the media industry. I was very clear on what I had wanted in my life.

How did you get approached to host the Asian TV Awards? 

The ATA organising committee contacted and invited me to host the programme. I’m grateful that the management at Mediacorp is supportive of me taking up this event. 

Is this your first time hosting the Asian TV Awards? And if so, what part of the opportunity are you most looking forward to?

Yes, it is my first time hosting the Asian TV Awards. I’m excited and looking forward to working with my fellow Singaporean co-host Benjamin Josiah as well as Ramida (Thailand), Thanh Giang (Vietnam), and Paolo Del Rosario (the Philippines).

I enjoy interacting with people from other countries as I believe this is one of the best ways to learn more about different cultures. I also see this as an opportunity to enhance my hosting skills and reach out to different audience segments.

Sadly, due to the pandemic, I will only get to meet Ben in person this time. I definitely look forward to being able to learn from him as he has the experience from hosting the awards last year.

It's a pity I am unable to meet the regional hosts in person this time, but I am sure you will be able to experience our own unique personalities through your screens.

Tell us about some of the shows you've previously hosted and how those experiences differ from the Asian TV Awards. 

I’m currently hosting Channel 8 Prime Time News and Current Affairs Show, ‘Hello Singapore’. I’ve also hosted special programmes such as Channel 8’s ‘Sian Chay Bonding with Love Charity Live Show’, ‘Lunar New Year’s Eve Special Live Show’, and more.

This is not my first time hosting with co-hosts from other countries, but it is the first time I’m hosting an award show virtually with them, and also in English. To me, it’s a great opportunity to step out of my comfort zone and take on something different. I’m really looking forward to interacting and learning from other hosts from Vietnam, Thailand, and the Philippines. 

Are you rooting for anyone or any show, in particular, to win this awards season? 

Similar to many, when Covid-19 struck, there were fewer opportunities for overseas travel, which gave me more time to stay home and enjoy numerous television series. I’m elated that one of my favourite series that I watched this year, ‘Vincenzo’, was nominated for the Best Drama Series. As for our local media scene, I am extremely proud of our local Singapore talents, such as Joanne Peh, Jeremy Chan, Jesseca Liu and Bonnie Loo, who have been nominated for their excellent performances.