From private jets to cab driver: Malaysia’s ‘Gambling King’ influencer, who once earned RM100,000 a month, now drives to pay off debt

A Malaysian influencer known for his flamboyant gambling lifestyle is now working as a Grab driver to repay around US$245,000 in debt.

As per reports, Aaron Lim, 48, previously claimed to earn as much as RM100,000 a month and regularly played high-stakes baccarat. At one point, he won RM300,000 in a single night. But years of gambling eventually left him heavily indebted and struggling to meet basic expenses.

In an Instagram video posted on September 21, 2026, Lim spoke about his current life, saying he works around 10 hours a day as a Grab driver and earns a maximum of about RM200 (US$49) on a good day. After paying for food, fuel and medication, he said little remains.


“It's only enough to survive,” Lim said.

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A post shared by Aaron Lim (原账号) (@aaronlim_wishyouallthebest)

The long hours have also taken a toll on his health. He said he suffers from back pain and insomnia and has been relying on sleeping pills for more than a year, which he acknowledged have worsened his condition.

From business to high-stakes gambling

Lim's journey into gambling began after he sold hair products and later hand sanitiser during Malaysia's Covid-19 lockdown. After a friend introduced him to gambling, he won RM20,000 during his first week.

He subsequently built a social media following by sharing gambling tips and promoting a lifestyle centred on high earnings. One of his widely promoted messages was: “three to five thousand a day, a hundred thousand a month.”

However, his experience also included substantial losses. Lim has said he could lose as much as RM150,000 in a single night.

At the height of his gambling lifestyle, he travelled on private jets and spent RM100 to RM200 on meals without hesitation. As his winnings increased, he described gambling as an “investment.”

But mounting debts eventually forced him to reconsider his approach. In June 2025, Lim said, “Gambling has no winners, only victims. I have harmed many people.”

He later rejected the idea that gambling could make people wealthy, describing that message as a lie and reflecting on the consequences of his own choices.

Starting over at 48

Lim now relies on a car borrowed from a friend to work as a Grab driver. He has also described making small changes to manage his expenses, including waiting until after 8:30 p.m. to buy food at half price.

The contrast with his previous lifestyle is stark. From private jets and expensive meals to working long hours behind the wheel, Lim says he is now focused on rebuilding his life.

“My wild days are in the past. I'm starting over again at 48 years old,” he said.

Lim's story marks a significant shift from the gambling-fuelled lifestyle he once promoted. While he continues to deal with debt and health problems, he says he is determined to move forward through work and rebuild his life after what he describes as its lowest point.