Pakistan Army can proudly boast about her many devoted sons, sons who have laid down their lives in the line of duty, sons who have inspired and sons whose valour and courage surpass that of an ordinary person, thanks to whom we sleep peacefully at night.
May 27th, 2010 marked the end of the life of one such soldier whose tales of valour and grit are legendary among the Pakistan army. Mohammad Hanif Malik was not only a patriotic officer but also a chivalrous gentleman and an accomplished athlete.
Coming from a humble yet influential rural background, he was commissioned in the army in 1954, following in the footsteps of his distinguished elder brother Colonel Latif Malik. An outstanding cadet from the beginning, he earned the title of Best Cadet in Military Tactics and was nominated runner-up for the Sword of Honour at PMA. The same pattern followed throughout his military career and he continued to excel as an officer. His valour in the army led to him being decorated with the Sitara-e-Jurat in the 1971 War and with the Tamgha-e-Imtiaz (military) in 1980, for his brilliant strategies in Parachinar while serving as Commandant Kurram Militia. Dauntless and daring with the heart of a warrior, he rose in his ranks to become a Lt. Col. as well as being part of the elite Special Services Group (SSG).
A dynamic individual, he left his mark in the world of athletics too, becoming the National Champion in 110 Meter Hurdles in 1954, and he held on to the title for for five years. He broke no less than five records in 110 Meter Hurdles in Berlin in1956, during the Military World Championship, from which he returned with a bronze medal. He presided over the Pakistan Athletic Federation for over a decade where he continued to boost the morale of young athletes. Another feather in his cap was the International Amateur Athletic Federation's Veteran Award.
His generosity of spirit and kindness extended not only to his family and friends, but even to strangers, who would bask in his warmth and sincerity. He never turned his back upon someone in need and was responsible for many welfare projects in his village, some of which he personally funded.
Lt.Col Mohammad Hanif Malik looked death in the eye during numerous operations but never once flinched. The only battle he lost was against cancer, which claimed his life at the age of 80. He was a national treasure; an inspiration for the ambitious, a safe haven for his soldiers and a source of encouragement for people around him. He left behind a devoted wife and seven children, now adults, who continue to revere him to this day.
"Dear Abu ge, though absent, you are very near; still loved, still missed and very dear. May your soul rest in peace, amen."–Mrs Mutahir Malik