A Malaysia Airlines cabin crew member was discovered dead in her hotel room on Monday, 20 May, during a layover in Tokyo, Japan.

In a statement, the airline confirmed the death of Norzana Hanim Hamzah.

According to Malaysia Airlines, Norzana was on a layover in Tokyo after completing a flight to Narita International Airport and was scheduled to operate the return flight to Kuala Lumpur yesterday.

"The airline has been in touch with Norzana's family and will be supporting them during this difficult time. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends of Norzana," the statement read.

While the cause of her death was not disclosed, it is speculated that she may have suffered a fall while preparing for her return flight.

Social media has seen an outpouring of support from fellow crew members.