TYT Tun Dato’ Seri Utama Ahmad Fuzi bin Haji Abdul Razak

The Yang di-Pertua Negeri of The State of Penang

TYT Tun Dato’ Seri Utama Ahmad Fuzi bin Haji Abdul Razak is a respected statesman whose illustrious career spans diplomacy, administration, and corporate leadership.

The 2024 CHT International Awards Lifetime Achievement Award recipient, TYT Tun Dato’ Seri Utama Ahmad Fuzi bin Haji Abdul Razak, is a distinguished statesman whose illustrious career encompasses diplomacy, administration, and corporate leadership. Celebrated for his intellect, humility, and advocacy for diversity, Tun Ahmad Fuzi’s influence extends well beyond his role as the Governor of Penang. He has been instrumental in initiatives that celebrate Penang’s rich heritage while promoting a forward-looking vision for the state’s future. Tun Ahmad Fuzi’s leadership is characterised by genuine engagement with people and a steadfast dedication to preserving Penang’s unique identity.

In this feature, we speak with six of Tun’s friends, who share their reflections on this extraordinary leader with our readers.

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A Lifelong Bond with the People’s Governor

by Ang Eng Beng, DJN – Educator, Social Worker, Author, Leadership Trainer

Tun Dato’ Seri Utama Ahmad Fuzi is truly the “People’s Governor.” Humble, approachable, caring, and generous, he has always stood out as someone refined and cultured, yet deeply connected to the people around him.

Tun and I were schoolmates in Stowell School and High School Bukit Mertajam from Primary 1 till Form 5, and classmates in Forms 4 and 5, at High School Bukit Mertajam. His leadership qualities were evident even back then. Despite his small stature, his exemplary character earned him respect among our peers, and the role of Hostel Captain, a position he fulfilled with distinction. Growing up in Sungai Bakap, he stayed in the school hostel due to the distance, and his ability to lead and inspire others was clear from a young age.

After we graduated in 1966, our paths diverged, and we lost touch for more than five decades. Seven years ago, I decided to reconnect with our classmates and formed a WhatsApp chat group, HSBM Class1966, and reached out to Tun. To my delight, he eagerly joined our Chat Group and get-togethers, and he  has since hosted two reunion dinners for his classmates at Seri Mutiara, always ensuring everyone felt welcome. Tun’s generosity knows no bounds—he even helped financed some of our reunions before becoming Governor.

Tun’s thoughtfulness shines in many ways, including his visits to classmates who are unwell, as well as to former teachers. His loyalty and commitment to keeping old friendships alive is very heartwarming. He is truly a remarkable friend and leader.

TYT Tun is also very attached to our Alma Mater, High School Bukit Mertajam. He visits the School very often, both as a Governor, and before becoming the Governor. He is a great inspiration to the students of High School Bukit Mertajam, often reaching out to the students. The old boys’ association, HSBM ALUMNI is managed by a National Executive Council (NEC), and I’m a Council Member. TYT Tun was an Advisor, until he relinquished the Advisor position on becoming the Governor of Penang. He has contributed immensely to High School Bukit Mertajam largely through the HSBM ALUMNI.

High School Bukit Mertajam, and HSBM Class1966, are so proud of TYT Tun, a distinguished and esteemed Alumnus. Personally, I’m so proud and glad to have studied together with him in the same class, played together, eat together….. Even now, we (TYT Tun and classmates) still enjoy our fellowships and camaraderie in our annual reunion dinners, and our get-togethers in the spirit of brotherhood. He addresses each of his classmates as Brother or Bro. We share a favourite Motto, “Accomplish Or Do Not Begin”, the Motto of High School Bukit Mertajam.

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A Statesman of Warmth and Wisdom

by Datuk Seri (Dr.) Syed Hussian Aljunid – Group Chairman of Media Prima Bhd

His Excellency Tun Ahmad Fuzi and I go back a long way.  I have had the privilege of knowing Tun through various encounters over the years, and our relationship has grown to one of mutual respect and friendship. While I deeply respect him as a leader, I am also fortunate to call him a close friend. His professional acumen and leadership are apparent in his formal engagements, but it is in more personal settings where his true character shines. Tun Ahmad Fuzi is warm, approachable, deeply empathetic and possesses a wealth of knowledge and wisdom. His insights, from years of experience and astute observation, are invaluable to those fortunate enough to spend time with him. He has this unique ability to summarise complex issues into easily understandable concepts; he listens with intent, engages in meaningful dialogue, and offers sage advice, making those around him feel valued and understood.

As Governor, Tun Ahmad Fuzi has dedicated a significant portion of his time to community development, welfare programmes, poverty alleviation, encouraging unity across communities and preserving Penang’s cultural heritage. He established the TYT Yang di-Pertua Negeri Pulau Pinang Foundation, the first of its kind by a state governor, to support education, healthcare, and poverty relief programmes throughout the state.

In his role as the head of Islam in the state, Tun Ahmad Fuzi has championed initiatives to improve education, economic opportunities, and healthcare for Muslims in the state. At the same time, he has actively encouraged interfaith dialogue, promoting mutual understanding and respect among all communities. His efforts have been instrumental in creating an environment where diversity is celebrated, and unity is strengthened.

Tun is also a tireless advocate for Penang’s development and has also been instrumental in positioning the state as a global hub for business and tourism, leveraging his diplomatic acumen to attract investment and foster international collaborations. 

If I were to describe him in one word, it would be “Statesman.” He approaches challenges with wisdom and cares deeply about the long-term well-being of the people and the state. It is evident in his actions and interactions. I have personally witnessed his dedication to creating an inclusive environment where everyone feels welcome and respected. For instance, I am often invited to participate in casual conversations with his circle of friends, a gesture that speaks volumes about his commitment to breaking down barriers and promoting genuine connections. His Excellency’s inclusive leadership style serves as a personal inspiration, and I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to learn from his example.

Tun Ahmad Fuzi is, without a doubt, “a Penangite who truly cares about the state and its people.”

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A Legacy of Leadership and Compassion

by Dato’ Moorthy Murugaiah – Senior Director Asia Regional Business Partner, People Organisation, Micron Memory Malaysia Sdn Bhd

I wanted to take a moment to share my reflections on TYT, a remarkable individual who has left a lasting impression on me.

Our first meeting was during a Media Prima dinner celebrating his 72nd birthday in 2021. Representing my company, I had the privilege of sitting beside him. I approached my conversations cautiously, unsure of his personality. To my surprise, he was engaging and curious, gradually turning our discussion into a meaningful exchange. By the end of the evening, I had gained a deeper understanding of him.

Since then, I’ve had the pleasure of connecting with TYT on various occasions—at the shooting club, high tea at Sri Mutiara, charity events, private dinners with Indian entrepreneurs and at my company events. His belief that everyone plays a role in building the community and nation is evident in his actions. He leads by example, inspiring others to see the difference they can make.

TYT’s influence has profoundly impacted me, motivating annual community programmes for under-resourced students. I truly admire his attentiveness and mindfulness to every development or event within the state, no matter how small. I accompanied him on visits to grieving families, including those of a TUDM soldier who lost his life in a helicopter accident, and another was a differently abled individual who lost his life in his quest to conquer Everest. I was deeply moved by the empathy and compassion he exhibited, not only in his conversations with the family members but also in his follow-up actions.

His energy is extraordinary, with a packed schedule seven days a week. Despite this, he remains well-informed on global developments, offering insightful perspectives on current events. His comprehensive understanding and intellectual insights inspire me continually.

One notable example of his foresight was his suggestion to donate Smart Televisions to rural Tamil schools. Initially focused on providing laptops, I was unaware of the broader socioeconomic impact of his proposal. His explanation revealed a profound long-term vision that was both enlightening and impactful.

“As a head of state, TYT’s contributions are reflected in the significant impact of his work. His leadership and dedication continue to inspire me, and I hope these reflections convey the profound influence he has had on me.“

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A Quintessential Leader

by Prof. Emerita Dato’ Seri Dr. Wazir Jahan Karim – Co-author/Editor “Timeless Penang: Tradition in Transition”

I first met Tun Ahmad Fuzi on formal occasions, but it was during our collaboration on the book Timeless Penang: Tradition in Transition in 2023-2024 that I truly got to know him. Commissioned by Tun as a souvenir for visitors to Seri Mutiara, the book was officially launched in May 2024.

Authored by distinguished scholars, intellectuals and academics representing institutions including Think City, Habitat Foundation, and Iskandar Malaysia Studios, Timeless Penang offers an in-depth exploration of the state’s biodiversity, economic resilience, and rich cultural heritage. It traces Penang’s transformation into a cosmopolitan hub with a maritime history that predates the Kedah Sultanate.

Tun Ahmad Fuzi’s vision for the book emphasised the inclusion of indigenous voices, steering away from a simplistic colonial or post-colonial narrative. This approach involved exploring the nuances of preserving Penang’s heritage and traditions amid the challenges of a rapidly advancing economy. 

Through our collaboration, I came to admire his intellect, sharp wit, and eloquence in both Malay and English. His passion for history, particularly the intricate ties between Penang and Kedah in pre-colonial times, stood out.

What impressed me most was his appreciation for diversity and inclusivity. Tun sees Penang’s multiculturalism as its strength, advocating for a balanced path that ensures the state remains competitive with Malaysia’s most advanced regions.

A particularly touching moment was when Tun shared that Seri Mutiara’s gardens had welcomed around 1,000 schoolchildren, giving them a chance to enjoy the serene surroundings. This small yet meaningful gesture reflects his genuine care for the community.

If I were to describe him in one word, it would be “Quintessential.” Tun Ahmad Fuzi embodies the ideal qualities of a head of state—visionary, compassionate, and deeply rooted in his mission to uplift Penang and its people.

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A Portrait of Leadership

by Dato’ Malkit Singh Dalip Singh – Immediate Past President of the Penang Club and Secretary of the Penang Sikh Association

My first encounter with Tun was in my capacity as the Secretary of the Penang Sikh Association and the President of the Penang Club. The Penang Sikh Association was one of the first organisations to honour Tun as the incoming Governor of Penang, hosting a splendid Punjabi lunch. Tun and the elegant Toh Puan attended in traditional Punjabi attire, a gesture that reflected Tun’s deep respect for cultural traditions. As President of the Penang Club, I also had the privilege of welcoming Tun as the Patron of the oldest club in the country, established in 1868, and rendering speeches in his honour on a few occasions from 2022 to 2024. 

Tun’s story is one of resilience. From humble beginnings, walking miles to school in worn-out shoes, he rose through sheer perseverance to graduate from the University of Malaya and later earn a Certificate in Diplomacy from the University of Oxford. A paragon of punctuality, Tun’s time-consciousness stems from his diplomatic days in Moscow.

Tun is unassuming and unpretentious. During a courtesy visit to Seri Mutiara, as I marvelled at the sprawling grounds, Tun remarked, “This mansion belongs to the people of Penang. I am merely a temporary lodger.” This is the measure of Tun’s humility and service-oriented mindset. Moreover, Tun has an incredible knack for remembering faces and names and personally engages with guests at events.

During the two charity walks I attended at Penang Hill, I was struck by Tun’s boundless energy. His vigour outpaced many younger participants, including event organisers, especially along the final uphill stretch to the majestic colonial-era Bel Retiro, his official residence on Penang Hill. Tun graciously welcomed the walkers, epitomising his remarkable hospitality.

He has actively engaged with diverse stakeholders to foster collaboration, discussion, and the sharing of ideas. Hardly a day passes without him being involved in something, and he has successfully strengthened Penang’s global presence.

His passion for education has facilitated scholarships amounting to nearly RM10 million, providing critical opportunities for many young minds. Through the Yayasan Amal Tuan Yang Terutama, Tun has raised over RM4 million for charitable causes, extending crucial support to those in need. His calm demeanour, silver mane, and timeless sophistication encapsulate his role as a courteous and down-to-earth head of state.

To me, Tun is more than a symbolic figure; he embodies what it means to serve with love and dedication. His legacy is one of humility, relentless service, and a genuine connection with the people of Penang.

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A Vision with Tun Ahmad Fuzi

by Tan Sri Dato’ Seri (Dr.) Haji Mohd Yussof Latiff  – President, Penang Malay Association (PEMENANG)

I first became acquainted with Tun Ahmad Fuzi when he was appointed as the Yang di-Pertua Negeri of Penang in May 2021. Prior to that, I only knew Tun Ahmad Fuzi as a distinguished Malay son of Penang who excelled in his civil service career and served as a Malaysian diplomat abroad. I was also aware of his reputation as a notable figure in the corporate world after his retirement.

A few weeks after Tun’s official appointment as Yang di-Pertua Negeri, I, representing the Penang Malay Association (PEMENANG), paid a courtesy call on him to introduce myself and the association.

When I met Tun, I could sense his charisma and his personality as a distinguished and authoritative figure. This impression was reinforced in subsequent meetings with him, during which we discussed various issues concerning the Malay community in Penang. Tun is a great listener and possesses a visionary outlook.

He encouraged PEMENANG to address the issues of the Malay community in Penang inclusively—not merely by highlighting problems but by becoming an organisation capable of providing solutions for the community’s challenges.

Among the matters that garnered his serious attention was PEMENANG’s proposal to establish a Malay enclave to develop waqf lands in Kampung Makam and Kampung Dodol, as well as the purchase of a piece of land on Persiaran Perak to be developed into a Bumiputera housing project in the heart of Tanjong.

Tun took this proposal seriously and supported PEMENANG’s efforts to collaborate with any relevant government agencies. As a result of discussions with Tun regarding this proposal, PEMENANG is now in negotiations with UDA to realise the Malay Enclave project in Tanjong. This proposed project has also received the blessing of Y.A.B. Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim, the Prime Minister of Malaysia. 

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Tun has always been an inspiration to organisations and local communities in addressing social, economic and public issues, subsequently encouraging resource mobilisation among parties to achieve shared prosperity and results for our fellow Penangites.