Ayob Khan discusses counter-terrorism surveillance and receives national award

Former Deputy Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Ayob Khan Mydin Pitchay has shared insights into the security threats faced during his tenure leading the Bukit Aman Counter-Terrorism Division. He revealed that Islamic State (IS) coordinators in Malaysia attempted to monitor the movements of high-ranking security officials, including the Inspector-General of Police, through social media and physical surveillance during routine activities like jogging.

To mitigate these risks, Ayob Khan employed strict security protocols, such as using bulletproof vehicles, varying travel routes, and maintaining situational awareness in public spaces. He noted that these defensive techniques were rooted in methods developed during the era of the Malayan Communist Party. He also emphasized the necessity of the Security Offences (Special Measures) Act 2012 (SOSMA) for addressing major security threats.

Following his retirement on July 26, Ayob Khan was recently honored with the Maulidur Rasul 1448H (2026M) Tokoh Wira Negara award, presented by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. He expressed his desire to remain active in society through NGOs, corporate roles, or writing, noting his intention to publish more detailed accounts of past operations.