ACTRESS Nadia Kesuma, who was reported missing while transiting through Jeddah last Thursday, has been confirmed dead following search efforts and record verification conducted by the Malaysian Consulate General in Jeddah in cooperation with local Saudi authorities.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, through a statement issued by Wisma Putra, said the family of the late Nadia Kesuma, whose real name was Nadiah Kasumawati Abdul Karim, 50, has been formally informed of the tragic news.
The ministry said it would not disclose further personal details surrounding her death out of respect for the family’s privacy and the sensitivities involved.
“To ensure that all arrangements proceed smoothly, the Embassy of Malaysia in Riyadh together with the Consulate General in Jeddah are actively providing full consular assistance to the family.
“Representatives from both Malaysian diplomatic missions will remain on the ground to closely monitor developments and facilitate the next stages of the process,” the statement said.
The ministry also expressed its deepest sympathy and condolences to the entire family of the late Nadia Kesuma and recorded its appreciation to the Government of Saudi Arabia for the cooperation and assistance extended throughout the matter.
Wisma Putra reiterated that the safety and welfare of Malaysians abroad remain a top priority.
Earlier, the actress’s husband, Prof Dr Muhammad Kamarul Kabilan Abdullah, announced her passing in a Facebook post early this morning.
He said his wife’s remains would not be repatriated to Malaysia and would instead be laid to rest in Jeddah.
Nadia was initially reported missing after failing to be located following her transit at King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah while en route from Kuala Lumpur to London, United Kingdom.
Wisma Putra later confirmed that she had exited the Jeddah airport after landing, dispelling earlier uncertainty surrounding her whereabouts.
Her sudden death has sent shockwaves through the local arts community, her family and acquaintances, as well as Nuh Travel & Tours Sdn Bhd, the company that managed her travel arrangements.
In a statement, Nuh Travel said it had worked closely with various authorities in an intensive effort to locate Nadia Kesuma after she was reported missing at the airport last Thursday.
“We deeply appreciate the support and assistance provided by Wisma Putra, the Malaysian Consulate General in Jeddah and all parties involved.
“We are profoundly saddened by this loss and will continue to give our fullest cooperation in all matters related to the management and processes required,” the company said.
The travel agency also conveyed its condolences to the family and urged the public to respect their privacy and refrain from speculation that could compound their grief.
“May Allah SWT bestow His mercy upon the soul of the late Nadia Kesuma, forgive her sins and place her among the faithful and righteous,” it said.
The passing of the actress, believed to have been caused by a heart attack, has been described as a major loss to the Malaysian Artistes’ Association, SENIMAN.
Its president, Zed Zaidi, said the late Nadia was a long-standing and active member of the association, known for her close ties and unwavering commitment to its activities.
“Her relationship with SENIMAN goes back many years and she was truly part of the association’s extended family.
“When we received a call from actress Anne Abdullah, who is also a close friend of the late Nadia, regarding her disappearance, SENIMAN immediately took steps to assist in whatever way possible,” he told BH Online.
Zed said Nadia was widely regarded as a responsible and caring individual who often acted like an elder sister or mother figure to other members.
“She was always extending help, including preparing food and ensuring the welfare of artistes and participants was looked after. Her loving and thoughtful nature made her well liked by many.
“All members of SENIMAN are deeply saddened. Her passing is profoundly felt and represents a great loss to the association,” he said.
He added that this was the first case involving the death of a SENIMAN member abroad, making the handling of the matter a new experience for the association.
“In this situation, SENIMAN will continue to monitor developments and stand ready to provide assistance and support to the family, especially as she will be buried there,” he said.
Zed also advised travel agencies and tour operators to fully uphold their responsibilities towards the safety of participants.
“Profit should not be the sole priority. Safety and the lives of participants must be taken seriously.
“The responsibility borne by travel agencies is immense and every individual in a group must be cared for with full trust and accountability,” he said.
He also revealed that Nadia had recently been involved in a SENIMAN programme under the Technical and Vocational Education and Training initiative.
“She served as an acting coach for a recently organised SENIMAN TVET programme and demonstrated strong commitment throughout her involvement,” he said.
Earlier, Prof Dr Muhammad Kamarul Kabilan Abdullah, 57, announced via Facebook that his wife had passed away in Jeddah at 8.07am last Thursday. - January 18, 2026
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