PETALING JAYA: As Attorney General, Tan Sri Dusuki Mokhtar shoulders one of the nation’s most demanding responsibilities, overseeing legal matters that often require long hours and difficult decisions.
Yet beyond that, he embraces another role he considers equally important – that of a father.
In conjunction with Fathers Day, Dusuki reflected on the challenges of balancing public service with family life, stressing that no professional accomplishment can compensate for absence at home.
“The responsibilities of the AG are indeed extensive and often demanding. However, I have always believed that no professional achievement can replace the importance of being present for one’s family,” he said.
While acknowledging the demands of his office, Dusuki said he makes a conscious effort to spend meaningful time with his children, whether through family meals, daily conversations or being present during important milestones.
“Fatherhood is not measured solely by the quantity of time spent, but by the quality of attention, guidance and love we provide,” he said, adding that maintaining such balance requires discipline, much like public service itself.
The nation’s top prosecutor said the values he hopes to pass on to his three daughters are the same principles that have guided him throughout his legal career – integrity, humility, respect, and responsibility.
“The law is ultimately about fairness, accountability and service to society, and these are values that transcend the workplace,” he said.
“I encourage my children to always do what is right, even when it is difficult, to treat others with dignity, and to understand that success is meaningful only when accompanied by good character,” said the 59-year-old.
Among his most memorable experiences as a father was a simple but profound question posed by one of his children: “Why do you spend so much time working?”
The question, he said, prompted deep reflection about the sacrifices families often make alongside those serving in public office.
“That conversation reinforced the need to ensure that my children understood the purpose behind my work – that serving the nation is ultimately about contributing to a better future for their generation and those to come,” he said, adding that his children are now in their teens and early twenties.
“It also reminded me never to take family support for granted.”
Dusuki believes fatherhood has also shaped his approach to leadership, teaching lessons that no professional training can fully provide.
“Patience helps one listen carefully and consider different perspectives before making decisions.
“Empathy allows us to understand the concerns and circumstances of others. Resilience enables us to remain steady during challenging times.” he said.
He added that these qualities are equally essential in leading an institution, where trust, fairness and compassion are as important as sound legal judgment.
Dusuki urged fathers to recognise the lasting influence they have on the next generation.
“Children learn not only from what we say, but from what we do every day.
“By demonstrating integrity, kindness, discipline and respect, we help shape the values of the next generation,” said Dusuki, who described fatherhood as both a great responsibility and one of life’s greatest privileges.
