'Buat kerja': Late Chief Justice Abdul Hamid's simple creed
PUTRAJAYA: When a woman involved in a case came to the home of the late Tun Abdul Hamid Mohamad seeking a favour, the former Chief Justice did not hesitate.
PUTRAJAYA - The late Chief Justice Abdul Hamid Mohamad lived by a simple creed even as he served the nation, as shared by his daughter, Melati Abdul Hamid. The story of his character came to light during reference proceedings at the Palace of Justice. Melati recounted an incident where a woman sought a favour from her father, only to be met with a refusal and the simple phrase, "God knows."
This exchange demonstrated Abdul Hamid's adherence to faith, honesty, and a strong sense of right and wrong. His decisions in court were based solely on facts and applicable law, with his personal opinions irrelevant. He was willing to make decisions that could jeopardize his own future if they were right. During his tenure as Chief Justice from 2007, he hung two large banners at the Palace of Justice reading "BUAT KERJA" (Do the Work), a simple message that he believed to be his greatest strength.
Despite his declining health, Abdul Hamid continued to write, producing eight books and hundreds of speeches and articles. To his family, he remained simply their Ayah (father), caring for them, sharing stories, and teaching them values. He loved fishing and once told his children that the fish did not care who was holding the rod, or what title they carried.
The message Abdul Hamid left for his family and the judicial system was "Buat Kerja" - to maintain dignity, never beg or lobby for positions, and let honesty prevail.
Written by urgent.news from New Straits Times's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
Also reported by 2 other outlets
- Selective silence will hurt GBA – Chief Justice ghanaiantimes.com.gh
- Dzaiddin taught Judiciary to listen again, says Chief Justice nst.com.my
