SHAH ALAM, Former Inspector-General of Police (IGP), the late Tun Mohammed Hanif Omar has been described as a highly patriotic individual who always put the nation’s interest before his own and his family’s.
His son, Captain (R) Abdul Rahmat Omar, said his father consistently instilled in his children a strong sense of love and responsibility to protect the country.
‘About two weeks ago, during the Israeli attack on the Iranian consulate (in Syria), he expressed hope that such an event would not occur in Malaysia and that those in charge of ensuring security would take the appropriate precautions.
‘Even until the end, he still thinks about the country’s safety,’ he told Bernama when met his family’s residence in Section 13 here today.
Abdul Rahmat Omar further elaborated on his father’s sacrifices, including missing the births of his five children due to duty.
‘In fact, when my late sister died, he was in Bangkok with the second Prime Minister Tun Abdul Razak who was attending discussions to end the Mal
aysia-Indonesia confrontation,’ he said.
Mohammed Hanif’s second child also said that the family deeply understood his father’s unwavering commitment because, to them, his absence from duty would be like neglecting the responsibility of safeguarding millions of people in the country.
The aviation expert also shared how his father often reminisced about his service in the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM), particularly when combating communists, and could recall each officer and member who displayed heroism during those times.
Abdul Rahmat Omar said his late father often reminded his children to embrace life’s challenges to foster self-reliance and appreciation for the peace enjoyed by the country.
Mohammed Hanif, 85, who died at 2.15 am today due to kidney disease, was appointed the fourth IGP at the age of 35 on June 8, 1974, before retiring on Jan 15, 1994.
He made history as the youngest and longest-serving individual mandated to hold the post, namely for 20 years.
Source: BERNAMA News Agency