Established model, rising actor. Rita Nadira navigates her way under the spotlight of two separate worlds with her signature grace, charm and ambition.
Photography by Edmund Lee. Styling & text by Abdul Aziz Draim. Art direction by Khairani Ramli.
Rita Nadira wears jewellery from Chaumet throughout.
Harper’s BAZAAR Malaysia May ’25 featuring Rita Nadira. Bee de Chaumet Pompom earrings; and pendant, both from Chaumet.
When you meet Rita Nadira, all 5’8” of her exudes an unassuming elegance that belies her growing stature in Malaysia’s entertainment industry. At 26, she’s the kind of woman who seems like she’s been graced with an unrelenting calm, with a warmth in her smile that instantly sets you at ease. It’s fitting, then, that her ascension in the worlds of fashion and television feels equally balanced, a delicate dance between two demanding careers that she somehow makes look effortless.
Born on 7 June 1997 in Kuala Lumpur as the youngest of six siblings, Rita Nadira didn’t always envision a future on the big or small screen, much less to have her face plastered across billboards and magazine covers. But life had other plans. At 15, she took her first steps into the modelling world, nudged by her sister, model Rita Suraya (who herself graced our cover in April ’23). What began as casual gigs quickly snowballed when, at 18, Rita Nadira realised she had the potential to truly make a name for herself. “I didn’t initially have a desire to become a model,” she admitted. “But once I stepped into it, I truly fell in love with the craft.”
All jewellery from Chaumet. Jacket, stylist’s own.
And that love runs deep. After graduating with a Diploma in Performing Arts (Theatre) from Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM), plans to further her studies were put on hold when modelling offers poured in with a steady flow. By the age of 21, she was already an in-demand model, so much so that when the idea of moving into acting was introduced—at the suggestion of her manager who felt it was time to put her diploma to good use—Rita Nadira had a tough decision to make.
Fast forward five years later, with an increasingly impressive resume of drama series, TV movies and leading roles to her name, while never hanging up her modelling shoes for good, Rita Nadira is navigating her way under the spotlight of two different realms of entertainment with grace, hard work and a determination to be the best version of herself no matter her endeavour.
BAZAAR sits down with this talented beauty to trace her trajectory from being one of the industry’s most sought-after models to stepping out of her comfort zone to becoming one of acting’s most promising stars. She’s only getting started.
Bee de Chaumet hoop earrings and necklace, both Chaumet. Dress, Syomirizwa Gupta.
How old were you when you started modelling?
I began modelling at the age of 15, encouraged by my sister, Rita Suraya. At the time, it was more of a casual endeavour, something I did for fun while still in school. It wasn’t until I turned 18 that I began pursuing it more seriously, and I’ve remained active in the industry ever since.
Since you studied theatre, did modelling feel natural to you seeing as it’s also a form of performance?
Yes, in many ways, my background in theatre helped me feel more at ease on the runway and in front of the camera. It gave me a sense of presence and confidence. However, I do think there are notable differences between the two. Modelling often requires a certain stillness and precision, whereas theatre is deeply rooted in expression, movement, and emotional storytelling.
What was your first professional modelling gig?
My first ever professional modelling job would be a fashion editorial for Cittabella magazine and my first runway show was for The Wedding KL, an event by Andrews Models.
Bee de Chaumet rings; and bracelets, all Chaumet.
When you first started out, which models did you aspire to become?
To be completely transparent, I didn’t initially have a desire to become a model. It was my sister who strongly encouraged me to give it a try. So, I didn’t really grow up with role models in the industry. But once I stepped into it, I truly fell in love with the craft. Modelling has opened so many doors for me, not just within fashion, but in the broader entertainment and social media industry as well. I believe this is all a journey written by God.
Was there any important advice that your sister shared with you on how to make your way in modelling?
There wasn’t any specific advice she gave me, but my sister always reminded me to enjoy what I do, to remain kind, and to be financially wise; to think ahead and save for the future. Those are values I continue to hold close.
Bee de Chaumet ear cuff; earring; pendant; and necklace, all from Chaumet. Dress, Nurita Harith.
Your most memorable modelling gig?
There have been many memorable moments. One was receiving a Best Model award earlier in my career—it was both surprising and affirming. The other was being flown to China to do a campaign shoot for Estee Lauder. And of course, to be chosen by Uniqlo for their Raya campaign billboard is so memorable.
What inspired you to study theatre in the first place?
Interestingly, it was actually my mother who submitted my application for a Performing Arts course. She even encouraged me to attend the interview. I went along with it, was accepted, and ended up completing the programme. It wasn’t something I initially sought out, but it became a pivotal part of my journey.
All jewellery, Chaumet. Dress, Tangoo.
It was your manager who pushed you into acting. Was that an easy choice to make?
Initially, it wasn’t an easy decision. I had grown very comfortable in the modelling world, and the idea of venturing into something unfamiliar felt daunting. But I’ve come to realise that growth often happens outside of our comfort zone. So when my manager encouraged me to try acting, I took it as a challenge, and a chance to evolve.
What’s been your biggest challenge as an actor?
One of the biggest challenges has been living up to the standard set by established actors, especially when sharing the screen with seasoned veterans. Many of them are incredibly talented and bring years of experience, so I constantly feel the need to rise to the occasion and to give my absolute best.
Bee de Chaumet earrings; and rings, all Chaumet.
Which is your favourite role to date?
My favourite role so far was in a project with Zamarul Hisham. He was an incredible scene partner, his energy, support, and generosity as an actor helped me to connect deeply with the emotions required of me. Acting alongside him felt incredibly real, and it made the entire process so much more fulfilling.
Which do you prefer, playing the villain or the heroine?
I actually enjoy playing antagonist roles. There’s a certain freedom in portraying characters who are bold, complex, and morally ambiguous. It allows me to explore sides of human behaviour that we don’t often express in real life. For me, that’s the most exciting part of acting.
Bee de Chaumet ear cuff; hoop earrings; pendants; rings; and bracelet, all from Chaumet. Dress, Nurita Harith.
What is your relationship like with the public? Is there a difference between being a public figure as a model and being a public figure as an actress?
Social media has created a unique bridge between public figures and audiences. As a model, the focus is often on aesthetics: the fashion, the visuals, the concepts. There’s a certain distance that comes with that. But as an actor, people connect with your character, your emotions, and your vulnerabilities. It’s a much more personal relationship. I’ve found that audiences become more emotionally invested in you as an individual, which is both beautiful and humbling. It’s a responsibility I don’t take lightly.
You’ve done runways, and now TV. Will you ever do theatre?
Not yet…but theatre is very much on my list. In fact, I received an offer last year but unfortunately had to decline due to scheduling conflicts. It’s one of my personal goals this year, and I’m really hoping the opportunity comes around again. There’s something raw and powerful about live performance that I’m eager to experience.
What projects do you have lined up this year?
This year is shaping up to be quite exciting. I have several projects lined up, particularly for OTT platforms like iQIYI and Viu, and there’s a film in the works as well. Of course, I’ll also be continuing with TV dramas. It’s a busy year, and I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunities coming my way.
Bee de Chaumet Pompom earrings; and pendant, both Chaumet. Blazer, stylist’s own.
