Maria Menado

It feels utterly impossible to write this, to put into words the incredible woman that was Maria Menado. Born Liesbet Dotulong, she became Liesje Mandagi, and then, simply, Maria – a name that perfectly captured her radiant spirit. She passed away peacefully on May 30th, 2026, at the age of 94, leaving a hole in all our hearts that will never quite be filled. I remember when I first met her, years ago, she insisted on teaching me how to properly fold a sarong – a ridiculously complicated process involving a lot of laughter and spilled tea. That was Maria – always generous with her time, her knowledge, and her infectious enthusiasm. She had this incredible ability to make everyone feel seen and valued, like you were the most important person in the room. Maria’s life was a whirlwind of beauty and talent. From gracing the covers of magazines as “Malaya’s Most Beautiful” and “Best Dressed Woman in Southeast Asia,” to captivating audiences with her unforgettable role in “Pontianak,” she truly embodied glamour and grace. But beyond the dazzling headlines, she was a fiercely independent and incredibly creative woman. I’ll always cherish the stories she told of her early days in the film industry, of the challenges she faced and the triumphs she celebrated. She wasn’t just an actress; she was a producer, a singer, a force of nature. And she did it all with such a playful, mischievous twinkle in her eye. She adored her family – her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren – and they were the center of her world. What truly defined Maria, though, was her warmth and her genuine kindness. She had a way of lifting people up, of making them believe in themselves. She mentored countless young artists, always encouraging them to pursue their dreams with passion and integrity. She never forgot where she came from, always maintaining a deep connection to her Sulawesi roots and a profound respect for her Malay heritage. Her legacy isn’t just in the silver screen, but in the countless lives she touched with her generosity and her unwavering spirit. Maria, you were a true original, a dazzling star, and a beloved friend. We will miss your laughter, your wisdom, and your unforgettable beauty more than words can say. Rest in peace, my dear.