A Malaysian influencer recently disclosed that she spent a significant amount of money to purchase followers.

While many public figures rely on organic growth—followers who choose to follow without any financial incentive—Syaniena Natasya admitted she was one of the influencers who paid for followers, responding to a netizen's inquiry.

In a TikTok post on her account @syanienanatasyaaa, Syaniena revealed that she spent RM20,000 to increase her follower count. After the payment, her followers surged from 40,000 to over 500,000, and she now boasts over 697,000 followers on Instagram.

"I'm doing this for work"

Syaniena, who is also an entrepreneur running a cosmetic business, explained that she made this decision for professional reasons.

"In this industry, having a large follower base is crucial. Some buyers and manufacturers judge you based on your social media following, including whether you have that verified bluetick next to your handle," she said.

She added that buying followers is common on social media and in her line of work, but unlike others, she feels there is nothing to hide.

"It's unrealistic for my followers to jump from 40,000 to over 500,000 without paying. Do you think people like me that much? Do you think I'm Jennifer Lopez?"

Syaniena further explained her decision to be transparent, emphasizing that she prefers to live in the real world, not a "fantasy world full of lies."

"I don't know how to lie. Whatever I do and say, I am honest about it."

Watch here:

@shanienanatasyaaaa I pulak cr7 nyah😭😭😭😭#shouldbeme ♬ original sound - SHANIENA NATASYAAAA