Singer Adira Suhaimi has surprised many by revealing that she has blocked her former husband, Datuk Seri Adnan Abu Bakar, better known as Datuk Red, from contacting her by phone — a decision she says was made to safeguard her emotional wellbeing and prevent prolonged conflict.
Adira explained that the move was not impulsive, but rather a considered step to avoid arguments and misunderstandings that could further strain their relationship.
“I blocked him to protect my emotions. At the same time, I wanted matters between us to be resolved quickly,” she told BH Online.
She acknowledged her ex-husband’s desire to stay in touch with their children via phone, but noted that he was not in favour of communicating through intermediaries such as her assistant or her brother.
“We both know how easily disagreements can escalate between us. If we keep messaging each other, it could turn into a bigger argument. Even if we try to talk things through, it may never end,” she said candidly.
Adira also disclosed that this was not the first time she had taken such action, admitting that she has blocked and unblocked him several times in the past.
“Whenever I block him, I can focus on my work and the children. I’ve done this many times before. But when I unblock him, my emotions tend to get unsettled again.
“Sometimes we want to resolve things amicably, but it just doesn’t work out. So it feels better to block him,” she added.
Despite limiting direct communication, Adira stressed that her former husband still has access to their children through her family members or assistant.
“Even if I’ve blocked him, he can contact my assistant or my siblings. He also knows where I live.
“I’ve never stopped him from seeing the children, taking them out or having them stay overnight. At least once a month, he spends time with them.
“I’m grateful that he still cares about the children. There are many people out there who don’t have the chance to see their children — and some who don’t even want to,” she said.
Reflecting on the situation, Adira described it as a learning experience that has helped her grow stronger and more patient.
“I see this as a process that teaches me to be calmer and more patient. To me, this is actually a small matter.
“I’ve been through much tougher times before, and thankfully I’ve remained strong. I have a good support system in my family.
“I can’t afford to be weak because my children still need me. Even when I feel emotional, I keep it to myself and deal with it in my own way,” she shared.
