Unstoppable: The Sequel Biography of Tun Zaki Azmi (Paperback)

Author: Premilla Mohanlall
Publisher: ILHAM Books
ISBN: 9789670067407
Year: 2025
Pages: 216
Weight: 494g
Price: RM89

ZAKI. It's a name that carries several layers of meaning. To his parents who named him, it was an acronym for Z = Zaharah, his mother. A = Azmi, his father. K = Kedah. And I = Islam.

Now aged 80, we ask: Has Zaki lived up to the expectations of his name?

His mother Zaharah passed away when he was 12, and Zaki does not speak much of the loss. Known to be close to his mother, Zaki is not a man who expresses his emotions, say his wife and sons. For most mothers, Zaki is likely to be a cherished son, who has made the family name shine.

His father Azmi was indulgent yet sensible, putting his foot down when needed - Zaki became a lawyer at his father's insistence. Unlike his father's calm and measured personality, Zaki is impatient, brash and pushy. Despite their differences, they share one star role: both father, and later his son, became judges and were appointed as chief justices of Malaysia. Surely, Zaki's father would have been proud of his son following in his footsteps. What's more, such a repeat is a first for the country, perhaps the world.

There is no mistaking of Kedah's pride in one of its famous sons. In 2025, Zaki was honoured with the "Darjah Kebesaran Orang Besar Lapan" (Eight Prominent Men Award), which carries the title "Dato' Seri Indera Setia" for his loyalty to the state.

In Islam, the name Zaki is of Arabic origin and means "pure," "virtuous'" or "intelligent". It is derived from the Arabic root word "z-k-y" (زكي), which signifies growth, purity and righteousness. Those who know Zaki well can vouch for his upright behaviour, pragmatism and for doing the just thing.

Zaki is born into privilege but has remained grounded. His father, Kedah roots and Islamic religion are his biggest influencers, guiding him to lead a life of no regrets, or at least, to make amends whenever he faltered.

What's your scorecard on this great Malaysian? Read inside.

THE NET PROCEEDS FROM THE SALE OF THIS BOOK IS DONATED TO TUN AZMI FOUNDATION, A CHARITABLE ORGANISATION, MANAGED BY LINCOLN'S INN ALUMNI ASSOCIATION OF MALAYSIA. THE FOUNDATION SUPPORTS LEGAL EDUCATION INCLUDING PROVIDING FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE TO DESERVING LAW STUDENTS