M. Panimalar, a social media entrepreneur and influencer, credits her late daughter Thanushiyaa for her success in the online business world. Thanushiyaa, who passed away last year at the age of 12 due to Alexander disease, inspired Panimalar to share her story on social media, ultimately leading to a strong following.
After becoming a Grab driver following her divorce in 2018, Panimalar transitioned into online entrepreneurship during the Covid-19 lockdown in 2020. She started by promoting kurti (Indian blouses) online and eventually delved into affiliate marketing, selling various products and earning a good income.
With an initial investment of RM2,000, Panimalar began selling kurti pieces and other products through affiliate marketing, leveraging her social media presence to reach a wider audience. She also started training other women as affiliate marketers, helping them earn additional income through online sales.
Dr. Ezlika Ghazali, an associate professor at Universiti Malaya, noted the rapid growth of affiliate marketing in Malaysia, attributing it to the active presence of influencers and content creators on social media platforms. Panimalar’s success story serves as an inspiration to many women looking to enter the world of online business.
Through her perseverance and dedication, Panimalar has not only built a successful online business but has also empowered other women to follow in her footsteps. Her journey showcases the potential of affiliate marketing as a lucrative opportunity for individuals looking to earn income through social media platforms.