If there were two words to describe slain activist Bill Kayong, his brother says, they would be "honest and steadfast".

Speaking to Malaysiakini, Bill’s younger brother Gaby Kayong recalled how the deceased was unwavering in his beliefs and never shied from lending others a helping hand.

He revealed that Bill, who was the 11th of 12 children, had only become a native customary land rights (NCR) activist some three years ago.

And his decision received the full support of his family and village.

However, Gaby is not aware of the 43-year-old father of two being in trouble or having enemies, let alone those who would resort to killing him.

"He rarely talks to me about his personal issues. As far as we are aware, there were no problems," he said.

Gaby said his brother’s teenage son and daughter are shocked that someone would be willing to murder their father.

"They are in shock, they never expected this to happen," he added.

Gaby said his siblings were on their way to Miri and would decide what would be best for Bill’s children, as well as where to bury his remains, once they were all gathered together.

Bill, who contested the Bekenu seat under a PKR ticket in the May 7 state election, was gunned down in broad daylight while he was in his four-wheel drive yesterday.

He died on the spot from wounds inflicted by a shotgun-wielding assailant.

Police are still investigating the motive behind the murder.