Today, that fear has been replaced by familiarity – even confidence.

Now 29, Nina runs Brotherhood Reptiles, an exotic pet shop in Alam Damai, Cheras, together with her husband. The shop, established in 2018, is home to hundreds of species, from tarantulas and chameleons to reticulated pythons, Borneo pit vipers and “pacman” frogs.

Speaking with Bernama, she explained that she slowly overcame her phobia of snakes during her college years. “From not being able to touch them, I eventually became comfortable handling them.”

Her journey into the world of exotic animals was not planned. After graduating in engineering, Nina struggled to find a job in her field. Conversations with her husband, Aiman, eventually led to the idea of starting a business together.

They began modestly in 2015, operating from home before opening their shop three years later.

Much of their early growth came during the Movement Control Order, when Nina began sharing videos of their animals on social media. Using a casual, easy-to-understand approach, she introduced viewers to lesser-known species and basic care techniques.

“I didn’t expect the positive response at all! It encouraged me to keep creating content and sharing more about these animals,” she recalled.

Today, her online presence continues to draw interest, particularly among those curious about a field that remains rarely associated with women.

While largely self-taught, Nina – who sources many of the animals from countries such as the US, Thailand and Indonesia – has built her knowledge through experience and guidance from others in the community.

Beyond her business, she hopes to change how people view reptiles and other exotic species.

“Many still see them as dangerous,” she noted, adding that with proper care and handling, these creatures can be much more than what people think.

Learn more about Brotherhood Reptiles on Facebook.

Brotherhood Reptiles
9-1, Jalan Damai Raya 1,
Alam Damai,
56000 Cheras, Kuala Lumpur

Contact: 010-579 1291