National Hero award for former police deputy chief
KUALA LUMPUR – Puan Sri Zalena Mohd Ariffin, who is undergoing her 18th chemotherapy session for stage‑three lung cancer, travelled to the National Maulidur Rasul ceremony to support her husband, former deputy…
Source: The Star Malaysia · August 25, 2026 at 10:59 AM · AI-assisted report
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NATIONAL PALACE, 25 AUGUST 2026 —
KUALA LUMPUR – Puan Sri Zalena Mohd Ariffin, wife of former deputy inspector‑general of police Tan Sri Ayob Khan Mydin Pitchay, attended her husband’s reception for the National Maulidur Rasul Award 1448H/2026 in the National Hero category despite undergoing her 18th chemotherapy session for stage‑three lung cancer. The ceremony, held at the National Palace, was attended by senior police officials and members of the Crime Journalists Association (CiJA).
Market Impact
Background Zalena and Ayob Khan have been married for over three decades, both having served in the Royal Malaysia Police (RMP). Their shared career has given them a mutual understanding of the pressures and public scrutiny that accompany senior policing roles. In recent years, Ayob Khan has faced criticism, accusations and even security threats linked to his tenure as deputy inspector‑general.
Zalena has publicly stated that she has absorbed much of the negative commentary directed at her husband, choosing not to disclose it to him in order to keep him focused on his duties.
Current Development During a luncheon with CiJA on Tuesday, August 25, Zalena explained that she had consulted her oncologist prior to the event. “The doctor said I could attend as long as I wore a face mask and maintained good hygiene,” she said. She added that her presence was “especially meaningful” because she wanted to provide moral support during a moment in her husband’s career.
Ayob Khan, who retired from the RMP earlier this year, described the award as “more than a personal honour” and a tribute to the entire police force. He thanked the government for the recognition and expressed hope that it would inspire continued integrity and dedication among police personnel.
Malaysia Market Impact While the event is primarily a national honour, it has attracted media attention across Malaysia’s business and security sectors. Analysts note that high‑profile recognitions of law‑enforcement officials can influence public confidence in the police, potentially affecting consumer sentiment and investment in sectors reliant on stable security environments. However, no direct economic impact has been quantified at this time.
Sector/Company Specifics The RMP, as a key public sector institution, benefits from heightened visibility during national ceremonies. The award ceremony, organised by the Ministry of Home Affairs, underscores the government’s commitment to acknowledging service excellence within the police force. No private companies were directly involved in the event, and no corporate sponsorships were reported.
The RMP is expected to continue its public engagement initiatives, and the government may consider further honours for other senior officers in upcoming national ceremonies. The ongoing health challenges faced by Zalena Mohd Ariffin remain a personal matter, with no public statements indicating a change in her treatment schedule.
Related: Ministry of Home Affairs · Puan Sri Zalena Mohd Ariffin · National Palace