KUALA LUMPUR: Despite undergoing treatment for stage three lung cancer, Puan Sri Zalena Mohd Ariffin, the wife of former deputy inspector-general of police Tan Sri Ayob Khan Mydin Pitchay, made the effort to support her husband as he received the National Maulidur Rasul Award 1448H/2026 in the National Hero category.
Zalena said her presence was especially meaningful as she wanted to be by her husband's side during an important moment in his life and career.
“Yesterday, I underwent my 18th chemotherapy session. I asked my doctor whether I could attend my husband's ceremony.
“The doctor said I could, as long as I wore a face mask and maintained good hygiene.
“I pushed myself because I wanted to give moral support to my husband,” she said when met at a luncheon with the Crime Journalists Association (CiJA) here on Tuesday (Aug 25).
Zalena said over three decades of marriage to Ayob Khan allowed her to understand his character, principles and approach to his duties, adding that standing by her husband through public criticism, accusations and threats has been part of life.
Both Zalena and Ayob Khan served in the police force, giving them a shared understanding of the demands and pressures of the profession.
However, she said they had always maintained an understanding not to interfere in each other's professional affairs.
“Sometimes, I feel like a sponge. I have to absorb a lot of criticism, negative remarks and accusations directed at my husband.
“There were even people who spoke badly about Tan Sri (Ayob Khan) in front of me, even though the person they were talking about was my husband.
“Although I heard all those things, I never told him. For me, what is important is that I want him to remain focused on his duties and responsibilities,” she said.
Zalena added that Ayob Khan was also not someone who liked bringing home the pressures and problems he faced at work.
Nevertheless, she said that as his wife, she understood the challenges he had gone through, including security threats and immense pressure during his years of service.
“I am always worried about his safety, not only his, but also the safety of the family. There were indeed threats, but my husband always took the necessary precautions,” she added.
Meanwhile, Ayob Khan said the recognition he received was more than a personal honour but a meaningful tribute to the entire police force.
Although he has since retired, he hoped the recognition would serve as an example to all police personnel to continue serving with integrity and dedication.
“I was only informed four days ago that I would be receiving this award. To me, this is not just for myself, but for the police force.
“I thank the government for choosing me for this recognition,” he said.
