Kuala lumpur: For over three decades, Puan Sri Zalena Mohd Ariffin has been the pillar of strength and source of unwavering support for her husband, former Deputy Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Ayob Khan Mydin Pitchay.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Zalena, herself a former Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) officer, shared that the mutual understanding they built allowed her to grasp the demands and immense pressure her husband faced on the job, without ever interfering in his professional affairs. She said that as the wife of a senior police officer, she has often been the target of negative public perception directed at her husband, but chose not to bring such matters to his attention.
'I have endured harsh criticism and negative remarks levelled at him,' she revealed when met at a luncheon hosted by the Crime Journalists Association (CiJA) here today. 'There have even been instances where people spoke ill of Tan Sri in my presence, yet I chose not to tell him, as I wanted him to remain fully focused on his duties and responsibilities,' she added.
Zalena said their shared experience as police officers gave them a deep understanding of the risks and pressure that come with the job, including concerns over their safety. She admitted that she constantly worried about his safety, as well as the family's, acknowledging that threats did exist. However, she said her husband always took precautionary measures by ensuring they were placed in secure locations and remained vigilant.
She said that although Ayob Khan did not like to bring work-related problems home, she understood what he was going through, drawing from her own experience in the force. Meanwhile, Zalena's resilient spirit was evident as she mustered the strength to be present when her husband was conferred the Tokoh Wira Negara award at the national Maulidur Rasul honours ceremony 1448H/2026 today.
Her presence was all the more meaningful, given that she is currently battling stage three lung cancer and had just completed her 18th chemotherapy session yesterday. She said her doctor had given the green light to attend the event, provided she wore a face mask and maintained strict hygiene at all times. She added that she pushed herself to be there because she wanted to offer moral support to her husband.
Meanwhile, Ayob Khan described the recognition under the Tokoh Wira Negara category as more than just an honour for himself, but rather an appreciation for the entire police fraternity. "I was only informed about this award four days ago. This recognition is not just for myself but for the entire PDRM. Thank you to the government for choosing me to receive this honour," he said.