Battling cancer, Ayob Khan's wife pushes through chemo to support husband's national honour
KUALA LUMPUR: A day after undergoing her 18th chemotherapy session, Puan Sri Zalena Mohd Ariffin summoned the strength to be by her husband's side as former deputy Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Ayob Khan Mydin Pitchay received a national award today.
On the day after her 18th chemotherapy session, Puan Sri Zalena Mohd Ariffin demonstrated remarkable determination by accompanying her husband, former deputy Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Ayob Khan Mydin Pitchay, to receive a prestigious national award. Zalena, who is battling stage 3 lung cancer, sought her doctor's advice before attending the ceremony, where Ayob was honored with the National Anugerah Tokoh Maulidur Rasul 1448H/2026 in the Tokoh Wira Negara category.
The 34-year veteran of marriage, who herself worked in the police force alongside Ayob, explained that their shared experiences in the police service had instilled in them an understanding of each other's challenges and pressures. Despite facing numerous criticisms and negative remarks about her husband during their time together, Zalena always refrained from sharing these disparaging comments with Ayob, instead focusing on his unwavering dedication to his duties.
She also expressed concern for his safety throughout his career, acknowledging the threats he faced while serving. Ayob, acknowledging the recognition as not only a personal honor but also a meaningful acknowledgment of the police force, expressed his gratitude to the government for choosing him to receive this prestigious award.
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