Siti Nurhaliza lands Forbes Asia list for helping food vendors during pandemic


The singer promotes local food businesses on her Instagram Stories free of charge. Photo: Black Pepper Production/Instagram

For those who follow singer Datuk Seri Siti Nurhaliza's Instagram Stories, you've certainly seen the mouth-watering dishes from local businesses she never ceases to promote during the pandemic.

The 41-year-old's effort to encourage her nearly eight million Instagram followers to order from a variety of local food vendors has caught the eye of Forbes Asia, earning her a spot on its inaugural 100 Digital Stars list.

"Earlier this year, the singer posted food reviews of restaurants affected by Covid-19, hoping to boost their business among her eight million Instagram followers," writes Forbes Asia.

Siti has shared in a previous interview with Berita Harian that all her promotional efforts for the local businesses are done free of charge.

"I'm very grateful that after uploading my reviews, these food vendors experienced a surge in orders. We have to help each other in these difficult times," she says.

Another Malaysian made it to the list: TV host and entrepreneur Neelofa, 31.

Neelofa previously landed on the Forbes 30 Under 30 Asia list in 2017. Photo: Neelofa/Instagram
Neelofa previously landed on the Forbes 30 Under 30 Asia list in 2017. Photo: Neelofa/Instagram

Besides acknowledging the fact that she is the most followed Malaysian on Instagram, Forbes Asia notes: "In October, the actress got a mostly positive response from her eight million followers when she said she would start wearing a niqab."

Forbes Asia's 100 Digital Stars list comprises 100 singers, bands, and film and TV stars from across the Asia-Pacific region who have taken the digital world by storm.

"We’ve given special focus to celebrities who, despite cancelled physical events and activities, managed to remain active and relevant, largely by using social media to interact with their fans, raise awareness and inspire optimism," the magazine describes its selection criteria.

"Many also used their influence to help worthy causes, especially those with a Covid-19 focus."

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Siti Nurhaliza , Neelofa , Forbes Asia

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