Veteran Ipoh-based horse trainer Leong Poh Keong passed away at age 81 after a brief illness. Over his 46-year career, Leong trained 622 winners, primarily in Ipoh and occasionally in Penang, though he never secured a feature race victory. Starting as a jockey in the 1960s, he transitioned to training in 1979 and remained involved in racing despite his advanced age and dementia. His last runners competed in early 2023, including the final race at Penang Turf Club before its closure.

Leong was remembered fondly by peers such as former jockey and trainer Peter Lee, who shared personal memories of their long association, and Deva Raj Subramaniam, who worked with him for two decades. Leong passed away peacefully in his sleep on November 11, with his wake held for three days before cremation in Ipoh. He is survived by his wife Rina and son Kevin.