Malaysian pharmacist found dead in Melbourne; homeless man accused of murder

KUALA LUMPUR – A 29-year-old Malaysian pharmacist working in Melbourne, Australia, was allegedly murdered by a man believed to be suffering from schizophrenia.

Australian network 7News reported that Leong Kum Chuan, who had been working at a public health service company since 2021, was found dead by a colleague at his home around 11:30 a.m. on October 23.

A colleague went to look for Mr. Leong when he failed to show up for work.

The news outlet reported that a 54-year-old homeless man was detained in connection with the case and the next day he was charged with Leong’s murder in court.

The network reported that the suspect, identified as Simon Hunter, appeared in the Melbourne Magistrates’ Court via video link from his cell at Heidelberg Police Station.

He was deemed unsuitable for police questioning and concerns have been raised about his behavior since his arrest.

During the court proceedings, the man undressed in front of Magistrate Tara Hartnett, who then ordered remand staff to move him to a room where she could communicate with him.

“I’m not dealing with an accused person looking through a cell door. This is not satisfactory,” she said.

The hearing was temporarily delayed until Hunter reappeared and began speaking incoherently.

Lawyer Georgia Karvela told the court that her client suffers from schizophrenia and has not been taking medication for two weeks.

Meanwhile, David Plunkett, chief executive of Eastern Health, Leong’s employer, said Leong will be remembered for his generosity.

“It is with great sadness that Eastern Health acknowledges the shocking death of our friend and colleague Kum Chuan “KC” Leong,” Mr Plunkett told Australian media.

He said Leong was a talented leader and mentor to many of the company’s aspiring pharmacists.

“He will be remembered for his passion, kindness and dedication to his team and the wider community.

“KC was only 29 years old and this tragedy will be felt by many.

“Given the sensitive nature of this case, we ask that you respect the privacy of his family, friends and colleagues at this time,” he said.

It was also reported that Mr Leong’s family flew to Melbourne from Malaysia on October 24 but did not attend the court hearing.

Hunter is scheduled to return to the court on January 16, 2025. THE STAR/ ASIA NEWS NETWORK