The family of a dedicated Kent student have paid a heart-warming tribute to the 22-year-old killed with a friend after an argument in Borneo.

Speaking just days before his inquest, Aidan Brunger's family thanked everyone for their love and support following his "untimely and senseless death".

The investigation into their deaths is being led by police in Malaysia.

Four local men have reportedly admitted killing the pair - while a fifth man has also been arrested, on suspicion of helping the killers dispose of the murder weapon.

The statement said: "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, who was raised in Rainham, was educated at Rainham Mark Grammar School.

His family said: "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."

The statement praised Aidan's "enduring and special relationship" with girlfriend Freja.

The talented student had successfully completed four years of study, and was returning in September to continue his medical training.

When he died he was working in Sarawak Hospital in Kuching, Borneo, as part of his medical degree.

"Aidan’s family are extremely proud of him and devastated to lose such a funny, kind hearted, considerate and wonderful young man" - family statement

In recognition of his achievements Newcastle University have awarded Aidan an Honorary MBBS degree.

The statement continued: "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."

The statement comes just days before an inquest is due to be held on Monday into the deaths of the two British medical students.

Aidan Brunger and his friend Neil Dalton, who were both 22, were killed last Wednesday after a night out in Kuching.

Last week, Aidan's former head teacher, Simon Decker, paid tribute to Aidan.

He said: “Aidan was a hugely talented and popular student during has time at RMGS and the whole school community will be so shocked to hear this dreadful news.”

Aidan and Neil, who had gone to Borneo with five other medical students, were found with stab wounds at about 4am on Wednesday.

Chai Khin Chung, Sarawak’s deputy police chief, said: “All the four men have admitted to the crime. We are investigating them for murder.”

Deputy Insp General of Police Tan Sri Mohd Bakri Mohd Zinin said the suspects, aged in their 30s, were caught in Kuching.

He told the Malaysia Times: “We believe the incident stemmed from a quarrel while both victims were at an entertainment centre in Kuching. We are investigating the motive.”

Aidan's body is believed to have been brought back to the UK today.

The family of Aidan Brunger, who was part of a research project to help make bone marrow transplants more successful, are raising money for Anthony Nolan. To donate, visit the Just Giving page by clicking here.