From Pendang to Bukit Aman: The Journey of Integrity of Tan Sri Ayob Khan Mydin Pitchay stands as a lasting legacy of leadership, courage, and integrity for future generations. 

KUALA LUMPUR, 23 July 2026 – Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) Press has once again achieved a significant milestone in Malaysia's publishing industry with the publication of a prestigious coffee-table biography titled From Pendang to Bukit Aman: The Journey of Integrity of Tan Sri Ayob Khan Mydin Pitchay.

The exclusive 276-page biography was authored by the Director of UPM Press, Professor Ir. Ts. Is. Dr. Mohamed Thariq Hameed Sultan, and published by Universiti Putra Malaysia Press. Priced at RM150, the book chronicles the remarkable journey of Tan Sri Ayob Khan Mydin Pitchay, from his humble beginnings as a village boy in Pendang, Kedah, to attaining one of the highest-ranking positions in the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) as the Deputy Inspector-General of Police.

The book was officially launched by Tun Seri Setia Dr. Haji Mohd Ali bin Mohd Rustam, Yang di-Pertua Negeri of Melaka, at the Kuala Lumpur Golf & Country Club (KLGCC), Bukit Kiara. Also present at the ceremony were the Chairman of the Organising Committee, Tan Sri Professor Datuk Wira Dr. Abdul Latiff Abu Bakar, along with the senior leadership of the Royal Malaysia Police.

Among the senior RMP officers in attendance were Datuk M. Kumar, Director of the Criminal Investigation Department (CID), Bukit Aman; Datuk Rusdi Mohd Isa, Director of the Commercial Crime Investigation Department (CCID); and Datuk Seri Mohd Yusri Hassan Basri, Director of the Department of Internal Security and Public Order.

Documenting the Journey of a Distinguished Police Leader

The publication of this book marks a significant achievement for UPM Press, reflecting its commitment to documenting the life and distinguished service of one of Malaysia's most respected police leaders. Presented as a premium coffee-table volume, the publication combines historical value with exceptional editorial quality and visual presentation.

Rather than merely chronicling the positions held or achievements attained by Tan Sri Ayob Khan Mydin Pitchay, the book brings together the experiences, challenges, sacrifices, and principles that shaped his character throughout nearly 35 years of dedicated service with the RMP.

The publication process was undertaken with meticulous attention to detail. On 12 January 2026, UPM Press conducted a special interview session with Tan Sri Ayob Khan at the Bilik Bicara, UPM Press Bookstore. The session was intended to ensure that his experiences, insights, and perspectives were systematically, accurately, and comprehensively documented for the publication.

The final manuscript review was held on 16 June 2026, with Tan Sri Ayob Khan working closely alongside the editorial team and staff of UPM Press. The review covered the manuscript's structure, factual accuracy, content refinement, and page layout before the book was approved for printing.

This phased process reflects UPM Press’s commitment to ensuring that the biography is not only visually compelling but also historically accurate and credible as a reference document.

Integrity as the Core of the Narrative

The central theme of this book is integrity, a value that has consistently guided Tan Sri Ayob Khan throughout his service. He has often emphasised that power and position are not privileges to be celebrated, but rather trusts and responsibilities that must be carried out with honesty.

According to him, the higher the position entrusted to an individual, the greater the challenges, pressures, and temptations that must be faced. At such moments, integrity must not remain merely a slogan, but must be demonstrated through every decision and action.

This principle is aligned with his message to members of RMP that integrity and accountability must serve as the foundation in carrying out their duties. These values are not only essential in preventing corruption and abuse of power, but also in improving service quality and strengthening public confidence in the nation’s security forces.

Tan Sri Ayob Khan also shared that his commitment to integrity was rooted in his late father’s advice never to take what belongs to others. When he joined the RMP, he came to understand that this advice carried a broader meaning, including the importance of not abusing authority, rejecting corruption, and upholding the trust placed in him by the people. 

Not Intended to Glorify an Individual

In his speech, Tan Sri Ayob Khan explained that the book was not published to elevate or glorify himself, nor to portray him as someone who had never made mistakes.

Instead, he described every achievement he attained as the result of the support of his family, the guidance of his teachers, the trust of senior leadership, the cooperation of colleagues, and the sacrifices of those who served alongside him. He hoped readers would understand that anyone can contribute to the nation through hard work, integrity, and commitment in carrying out their responsibilities.

The book also highlights his experiences in areas such as governance, discipline, law enforcement, leadership, and integrity. It is intended as a source of reading and reference for members of the RMP, university students, the younger generation, public servants, and the wider community.

Preserving a Legacy of Nearly 35 Years

The launch of the book holds special significance as it took place just days before Tan Sri Ayob Khan concluded his service on 26 July 2026, following nearly 35 years with the RMP.

Throughout his career, he served in the Special Branch, including the Counter-Terrorism Division, and held various key positions such as Chief of Police of Johor, Director of the Narcotics Criminal Investigation Department, and Director of the Criminal Investigation Department, Bukit Aman, before being appointed as Deputy Inspector-General of Police in June 2023.

Therefore, the publication of From Pendang to Bukit Aman: The Journey of Integrity of Tan Sri Ayob Khan Mydin Pitchay serves as a tribute to his contributions, sacrifices, and leadership, while also becoming a historical record that will endure beyond the conclusion of his service with the Sang Saka Biru.

This achievement also demonstrates UPM Press’s capability in producing high-profile premium publications that combine biographical writing, historical documentation, photography, creative design, and quality publishing. The collaboration involving the RMP, Yayasan Generasi Malaysia, and the National Book Development Foundation further strengthened efforts to preserve the leadership journey of a national figure for public appreciation.

More than just a biography, this book is a record of trust, courage, and loyalty to the nation. From a humble beginning in Pendang to the highest levels of leadership at Bukit Aman, Tan Sri Ayob Khan’s journey demonstrates that integrity is the foundation that defines the true value of a leader.

Written by:
Professor Ir. Ts. Is. Dr. Mohamed Thariq Hameed Sultan
Director, UPM Press

Date of Input: 29/07/2026 | Updated: 30/07/2026 | marlina_is