'I realize I cannot make everybody happy all the time'

Bruce Emond, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta

Known for his quick wit and playful use of double entendres in dealing with contestants on Family 100, the local version of the U.S. game show Family Feud, Sonny Tulung always knows what the survey says.

Born of Manadonese parents in Jakarta, the boyish 34 year old said his first inklings to pursue a career in entertainment began in adolescence.

"Maybe in high school I felt I had some sort of talent but didn't know how to maximize it. I was extroverted in the sense that I would like to get to know people, to find out more about who they were."

He became a deejay and worked in marketing for several radio stations in Jakarta until 1995, when a "host wanted" message arrived through the office fax machine.

It was for Famili 100. He stuck with the show through its initial teething problems.

The patience paid off with success; Famili 100 was broadcast on ANteve for four years and has been part of Indosiar's late- afternoon lineup since 1999. It has also included a weekly celebrity version.

He is continuing with the game show that has made him a household name, but is also considering an offer to branch out. He is currently mulling an offer as a co-host with game show whiz Helmy Yahya.

If you had the choice, what would you be doing right now?

Traveling around the world, taking photos, because I love photography. I also realize that there are so many beautiful places that I've never been to.

Which trait do you most like about yourself?

I'm persistent. I don't give up easily.

And deplore?

My inconsistency. Sometimes, I really want something but then I get down and I can't finish it.

But that goes against being persistent?

Yes, that's right! It's funny, I'm persistent but I'm inconsistent about it.

Whom do you admire?

My father, because he taught me a lot about life, many positive things. He gave me books that have made me what I am today.

What kind of clothes do you like to wear?

Every day I wear professional clothes, jackets and ties and pants, but at the weekend I like jeans and T-shirts.

What was the last book you read?

I read so much, I have a few books I'm reading right now. I've just finished David Jay Schwartz's How to Make Your Dreams Come True. I like self-help and psychological books, attitude and success books, as well as autobiographies.

What makes you angry?

When people lie to me, or cheat me.

What characteristics do you dislike in others?

Dishonesty, I hate it when people are not truthful.

What is your proudest achievement?

Being a six-time Panasonic award winner for favorite game show host. Actually, it's only five, but the sixth will be this year!

Is it hard to always be up, to be the smiling host?

Sometimes, yes, it is difficult to do all the small talk. I just go with my mood. I realize I cannot make everybody happy all the time. I just try to do my best.

If you had to live on a desert island for one year and were only allowed to take three things with you, what would they be?

Books, of course, lots of them. A jeep, because I like jeeps and the final one ... a pistol, to survive and hunt.

What makes you laugh?

My stupidity, when I do such stupid things, and I think, 'Why did I do that'.

And cry?

Sad movies make me cry, sentimental things, saying goodbye. Like when my father died, I cried.

If there was something you could change about your appearance, what would it be?

I'm quite happy with what I have, but if I could I'd like to be taller. I'm 167 cm but I'd like to be 180 cm.

But right now you're wearing braces, why is that?

Yes, I got an offer for a toothpaste ad, so I have to improve the appearance of my lower teeth. I wore braces when I was a kid, but not on the lower teeth. I'm not wearing them just to be trendy!

What makes life worth living?

If we mean something to others, if we help others. The point is that we don't just live for ourselves.

Do you have a favorite song?

I like a lot of songs, but it depends on my mood.

And movie?

I love Braveheart, it teaches a lot about life and the meaning of freedom.

Do you ever worry about your weight?

Sometimes, especially my belly. It's a problem.

Have you had, or would you ever consider plastic surgery?

Depends on the circumstances. For instance, if I were in an accident, like my face was disfigured, then it would be no problem. I did have an operation on my nose, because a bone was not growing right, but that wasn't plastic surgery.

How would you like to be remembered?

As a kind person, who liked to help others and was significant to them.