Malaysian pharmacist found dead in Melbourne; Homeless man charged with murder

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

Australia’s 7News network reported that Mr Leong Kum Chuan, who had been working for a public healthcare company since 2021, was found dead at his home by a colleague at around 11.30am on October 23.

He went looking for his colleague, Mr Leong, when he didn’t show up for work.

The news outlet said a 54-year-old homeless man was detained in connection with the case and then charged in court the next day for Mr Leong’s murder.

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

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

During court proceedings, the man took off his clothes in the presence of Judge Tara Hartnett, who then instructed detention staff to take him to a room where he could communicate with her.

“I am not dealing with a defendant looking through the cell door. “This is not satisfactory,” he said.

The hearing was temporarily adjourned until Hunter reappeared and spoke incoherently.

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

Meanwhile, Mr David Plunkett, chief executive of Mr Leong’s employer, Eastern Health, said Mr Leong would be remembered for his generous nature.

“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 Mr Leong was a talented leader and mentor to many of the company’s budding pharmacists.

“He will be remembered for his passion, kindness and commitment 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 matter, 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 from Malaysia to Melbourne on October 24 but did not attend the hearing.

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