Family First
Off-duty, Nadia focuses on her family—making sure she has enough time with her husband Hamzah Alang Shah and two children, as well as her mother, Puan Sri Zaleha Ismail, and siblings. “Marrying Hamzah was the best decision I have ever made. He is supportive, understanding and always so hands-on with the kids. He does house chores and runs errands when I can’t. From the beginning, we approached parenting as a team,” she says.
Motherhood is an experience she cherishes, especially as her children Aidan and Tahlia are still young and dependent on her. “I can’t help the negative thoughts that come to mind sometimes, but I try to ensure they are safe. Being a mum has also made me appreciate my mother even more—she is always so patient and sees the good in people,” she says.
I know! Crazy, right? There are some nights when I ask myself why am I doing this to myself? I think entrepreneurship runs in my DNA. I love being busy"
Me-time for Nadia consists of exercising or watching The Ellen DeGeneres Show or zoning out to Netflix. Occasionally, she indulges in some fashion-related interests, like shopping or keeping up with the latest fashion news and trends.
Her achievements, grit, personality and style has gained her a legion of admirers who follow her on social media. This is also why Malaysia Tatler chose her to be the recipient of the annual Woman on the Rise Award, conferred at the Malaysia Tatler Ball.
“She’s at a place where she is comfortable with herself, knows what she wants and goes for it, plus she’s a consummate professional,” says managing editor Elizabeth Soong, summing up this cover star perfectly.
This cover story can be found in our November 2017 issue, out now on newsstands or click here to purchase the digital copy of the magazine.
Photography: Aaron Lee | Styling: Andrea Kee | Hair: Shaun Yap/Hairplay | Makeup: Linda Scholer using Lancôme