Entertainment

Iconic Singaporean Singer Anita Sarawak Spotted in Las Vegas: What’s Behind Her Mysterious Comeback?

2025-01-01

Author: Jia

In a surprising turn of events, Singapore’s pop legend Anita Sarawak, despite being out of the public eye for over a decade, continues to enchant media outlets across the region. Recently, a photograph of the 72-year-old diva and her British husband, Mohamad Mahathir Abdullah, has made waves on social media, bringing attention back to her storied career.

Captured by her foster brother, former entertainment journalist Shuib Taib, the image was shared on December 31, though the exact date of the photo remains a mystery. This revelation has not only rejuvenated interest in Anita's past but also sparked intrigue about her current lifestyle.

In a subsequent Instagram post by former NST entertainment editor Roslen Fadzil, he recounted an interesting anecdote. Roslen had previously reached out to Anita with an invitation to perform at a concert. Through her husband, she graciously declined, stating that she has embraced a quieter, more private life and has no plans to return to the stage. This heartfelt exchange adds a personal touch to her public persona, leaving fans wondering about the reasons behind her retreat.

Anita Sarawak, whose real name is Ithnaini Mohamed Taib, once ruled the music charts in the 1970s and 1980s, captivating audiences with her powerful voice and charisma. Working across Malaysia and Singapore, she also made a significant mark in Las Vegas, where she performed from 1985 to 2001. After a successful career spanning four decades, Anita chose to step away from the spotlight in 2010, a decision that led to rampant speculation about her life away from fame.

Her remarkable legacy is anchored in her family’s entertainment history; her father, S. Roomai Nor, was a legendary actor-director, while her mother was a celebrated actress in the 1950s and 1960s Malay film scene. Anita transitioned from acting to a successful singing career, belting out hits in multiple languages, including English, Malay, and Mandarin. Among her most beloved songs are "Asmara," "Seksis," and memorable covers like "Sophisticated Lady."

In 2017, Anita was honored with an induction into the Singapore Women’s Hall of Fame, recognizing her influence and contribution to the music industry and society. Reports from the time highlighted her decision to live a low-profile life in Las Vegas, detaching herself from the spotlight.

In a recent update from her sister, artist Noor Kumalasari, it was confirmed that Anita is in good health, enjoying her married life in the U.S. Noor also expressed that Anita has no intentions of returning to Singapore or Malaysia, preferring the tranquility of anonymity over the allure of celebrity life.

Despite her absence, Anita Sarawak's impact on the entertainment industry remains profound. Fans and followers alike are left pondering: Is this glimpse into her life a sign of a potential return, or is she truly content living a life away from the glitz and glamour? For now, the answers remain elusive. What other surprises does this legendary diva have in store? Stay tuned!