Conflicts between fans are not uncommon, especially when toxic fans compare other celebrities to their own favourites. However, this behaviour can damage a celebrity’s reputation and affect their confidence. Some fans tend to downgrade other celebrities out of jealousy or resentment, sometimes without any valid reason.
Recently, a controversy erupted when a TikTok user left a hateful comment targeting a Malaysian icon known for her numerous hit albums and her title as the country’s Number 1 singer. This sparked anger among fans, as the commenter also compared her unfavourably to powerhouse vocalist.
A Twitter user known as @/HambaAbdi735337 shared a screenshot showing TikTok user @Zairaarish posting negative comments about Dato Sri Siti Nurhaliza. The comment criticised Siti’s performance of “I Will Always Love You” by Whitney Houston at JW Marriott Kuala Lumpur, claiming her pronunciation wasn’t “Mat Salleh” enough—a term Malaysians use to describe Western accents. The commenter further argued that singer Aina Abdul, who has a degree in music, has a stronger Mat Salleh slang compared to the 45-year-old.
The Twitter post included a caption that read, “This fan is not ashamed to compare Siti Nurhaliza with [Aina Abdul], who only has a degree.” The user added, “Even if you are spiteful, don’t be like this. A degree is not a determinant of success!” This sentiment is backed by examples of successful singers like Yuna, who graduated with a Bachelor of Legal Studies (Hons) and was nominated as the Most Inspiring Asian Woman at the People’s Choice Awards in 2019.
Sitizoners (Siti Nurhaliza’s fans) quickly defended their favourite singer, pointing out that the comparison was unfair since Siti is a Malay singer, not an English-language artist, and doesn’t need a Western accent in her music. Some fans expressed strong words in support of their idols, although many recognised that such interactions go against the values promoted by the artists themselves. Others emphasised Siti’s international acclaim and the respect she commands. One user argued that Aina Abdul’s songwriting abilities make her superior to Siti, who does not typically write her own music.
As fans and individuals with ethics, it’s important to show respect for all artists and fans by being considerate and avoiding unnecessary conflicts or unfair statements driven by hatred or jealousy. Such behaviour doesn’t elevate anyone and only creates more negativity. Maintaining tolerance and spreading kindness is essential to preserving harmony among fans.
You can watch the videos here:
@yazminaziz I love you too @Siti Nurhaliza 😭❤️ #fyp #tiktokmy #glammalaysia @Sitizoner
@aina.dvotee #ainaabdul #whitneyhouston #dollyparton #iwillalwaysloveyou #fypシ #tiktokmalaysia
Sources: Twitter, Malay Mail, TikTok (1)(2)
Sakinah contributed to this article.
