Social media today is no longer just a place for entertainment, memes, or personal updates. Behind many viral controversies, trending hashtags, and online attacks, there may be organised groups working quietly to influence public opinion. According to a report, some cybertroopers in Malaysia are allegedly earning up to RM10,000 a month to manipulate online narratives, trigger controversies, and coordinate character attacks across digital platforms.
A Highly Structured Operation
The report revealed that these operations are not random groups of internet users. Instead, they are said to operate through a highly structured system, complete with organisational hierarchies ranging from central coordinators to state-level leaders and grassroots operatives.
A man identified only as Nazri, 45, claimed that ordinary cybertroopers receive around RM2,000 monthly, paid directly into their bank accounts.
“For grassroots members, a RM2,000 salary is paid directly into their bank accounts every month,” he said.
“State chiefs receive higher payouts of between RM5,000 and RM10,000.”
Cybertroopers: More Than Just Posting Comments
What makes the revelation more concerning is the suggestion that these groups allegedly operate in a coordinated and strategic manner.
Rather than simply posting random comments online, cybertroopers are reportedly tasked with amplifying selected narratives, attacking opponents, and influencing public perception across platforms such as Facebook, TikTok, X, and other social media channels.
The existence of paid digital operatives also raises wider questions about how easily online discussions can be manipulated, especially during politically sensitive moments or major national debates.
Malaysia Named In Global Study On Social Media Manipulation
According to a 2020 media manipulation survey by the Oxford Internet Institute (OII), Malaysia was among 81 countries identified as facing organised social media manipulation campaigns.
The study found that Malaysian cybertrooper teams allegedly involve full-time staff employed year-round to control online information spaces. The OII described these groups as having “medium-capacity” capabilities, meaning they operate with more organised structures, coordination strategies, and influence tactics.
More notably, the study claimed that such tactics in Malaysia have allegedly been used not only by political parties and politicians, but also by government agencies, private contractors, civil society groups, influencers, and businesses.
Dr Samantha Bradshaw, lead author of the report, reportedly warned that parts of the industry have become increasingly professionalised, with some private firms now allegedly offering “disinformation-for-hire” services.
Sources: 1| 2
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