Yayasan Kebajikan Artis Tanahair chairman DJ Dave said he was informed of Noor Azizah’s death by her daughter, Khairena.

“Her remains will be taken to the Paloh mosque in Ipoh and the funeral is expected after zohor today. She died at about 3am due to shortness of breath,” he said when contacted by Bernama.

According to Dave, Noor Azizah had returned to Kampung Sungai Paloh for the Aidilfitri celebration.

Noor Azizah began her acting career in 1965, playing the role of Puteri Mawarni in the film Dayang Senandong before rising to fame by starring in films such as Raja Bersiong and Enam Jahanam.

Born in Kinta, Perak, Noor Azizah acted in about 20 films, including Sri Andalas, Jangan Tinggal Daku, Durjana, Laksamana Do Re Mi and Malim Kundang.

She also starred in the Australian-produced drama series Bailey Bird in 1977, playing the role of Doctor Susan Lim.

Hafiz Nafiah, secretary-general of the Malaysian Artistes Association (Seniman), said in a statement that Noor Azizah, who had two children, suffered from kidney problems and had been undergoing dialysis treatment.

He said that Seniman was deeply saddened by her death.

He said the creative industry had lost a talented actress and extended Seniman’s condolences to her family.