A Singapore Airlines (SIA) pilot was killed in a motorbike accident in Kuala Lumpur on Wednesday.

Photos circulating on Facebook show a red-and-white motorcycle with a Singapore-registered number plate leaning on a road shoulder. Netizen Ha Nyut, who shared the post, said the rider died on the spot.

The Straits Times understands that the victim is Mr Eugene Wang, a 46-year-old pilot with SIA.

A post on Mr Wang's Facebook page, uploaded by his wife in the wee hours of Thursday morning, said: "In loving memory of my loving husband Eugene Bernard Wang. 10th August 1972 to 22nd August 2018."

In response to queries from ST, an SIA spokesman said: "SIA deeply regrets to confirm that one of our pilots passed away on Aug 22. Our immediate priority is to provide the necessary assistance to the family of the pilot.

"For privacy purposes, we are unable to share any further details. Our condolences go out to the family of the pilot at this time."

According to Mr Wang's Facebook profile, he was originally from Kuala Lumpur and lived in Pasir Ris.

Posts from friends on his Facebook page paid tribute to him and also offered condolences to his family. Facebook user Daniel Chia posted: "We've lost a great friend and a pilot. His humour and laughter will be particularly missed. His love for family was always evident, wherever he was, no doubt about that.

"He was a proud Malaysian. The country lost a good son, anak Malaysia. You're da man bro."

Another Facebook user, Suhaimi Saman, said: "Ask me to name an excellent gentleman and family man, I'd name Eugene Wang without delay.

"Rest in peace, Sir."