Gillingham: Family Of Murdered Student Release Statement

The family of Aidan Brunger has issued a statement in tribute to the 22-year-old, who died after he was stabbed in Borneo earlier this month.

The family's statement reads:

"Aidan's parents and family would like to acknowledge all the love and support that they have been shown following the untimely and senseless death of Aidan in Malaysia. The enormous outpouring of love towards Aidan since he died is a lasting testament to the strength of feeling that so many people had towards him.

"Aidan was born in Hemel Hempstead and raised in Rainham, Kent. He attended primary school in Hempstead then moved to Rainham Mark Grammar School for his secondary education.

"Aidan excelled academically throughout his time at school and succeeded in obtaining a place to study medicine at Newcastle University. He had a great passion for sport - especially football and cricket which he both played and followed avidly. From a very young age Aidan supported Newcastle United FC and studying at university there allowed him to watch his beloved team. Aidan placed a great value on friendship and had a strong set of friends both in Kent and in Newcastle. Whilst at Newcastle he built an enduring and special relationship with his girlfriend Freja.

"Aidan had successfully completed four years of study and was returning in September to start on the next phase of his medical training. When he died Aidan was working in Sarawak Hospital, Kuching, Borneo, as part of his medical degree and was looking forward to exploring South-East Asia with his friends. Aidan had thoroughly enjoyed his time in Borneo, and spoke often about how friendly and welcoming the Malaysian people were to him. In recognition of his achievements Newcastle University have awarded Aidan an Honorary MBBS degree. The family is so proud that, whilst he has been unable to complete his degree, he will be remembered as Dr Aidan Brunger.

"Aidan's family are extremely proud of him and devastated to lose such a funny, kind hearted, considerate and wonderful young man. These qualities and the precious memories they have of him have left a massive hole in their lives.

"He will always be remembered."

Aidan Brunger was with his friend, Neil Dalton, on the island on attachment to a hospital in Kuching.

Four men arrested have admitted the murder of the two British medical students who were stabbed after a row in a bar.

The attack happened in the Jalan Padungan area of Kuching in Sarawak province, in the west of the Malaysian part of Borneo.