BATU PAHAT: "The last time I met Bella was two months ago before I heard the news of her tragic demise," said Mehar Runisa Abdul Majeed, 44, a close friend of Mila Sharmilah Samsusah, 32, also known as Bella, who was murdered last month.
Mehar admitted that she is still in disbelief over her friend's murder.
She said in their 13-year friendship, they would often go out together for meals as Bella's ex-husband was related to Mehar.
"I was very close to her, but it's surreal and sad that her life ended like that. I knew Bella and her ex-boyfriend, who was charged today, quite well. When I found out she was missing, I could sense what had happened to her.
"My sympathies go out to her family, who continuously searched for Bella for over a month," she said when met outside the Batu Pahat courts today.
The case also captured the attention of the public in the area, with many gathering outside the court to follow the proceedings.
Saliha Mohd Yunus, 45, had waited outside the gates since 8am to get the latest developments on the case.
"I may not know Bella's family, but it's difficult to hide the sadness in my heart. I came with my child to witness it firsthand. We've been following the updates on social media since the beginning.
"I also sympathise and feel sorrow because, as women, it is painful to witness a young life come to such a tragic end," she said.