Malaysian Rapper Namewee Faces Drug Charges After Death of Taiwanese Influencer Iris Hsieh
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia — The entertainment world in Asia has been rocked by shocking news involving two popular figures: Malaysian rapper Namewee and Taiwanese influencer Iris Hsieh. What began as a film collaboration in a Kuala Lumpur hotel room has now turned into a criminal investigation and a heartbreaking mystery.
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The Night Everything Changed
According to Malaysian police, 42-year-old rapper and filmmaker Wee Meng Chee, better known as Namewee, was arrested on October 22 at a hotel in central Kuala Lumpur. Officers reportedly found nine blue pills suspected to be Ecstasy, weighing about 5.12 grams (0.18 ounces).
A urine test later showed positive results for several substances, including amphetamine, methamphetamine, ketamine, and THC — the active compound found in cannabis.
Police confirmed that Namewee was charged on October 24 under Malaysia’s Dangerous Drugs Act for possession and consumption of narcotics. He pleaded not guilty and was released on bail of 8,000 ringgit (US$1,900). His next court hearing is scheduled for December 18.
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The Tragic Death of Iris Hsieh
The case took a darker turn when it was revealed that Taiwanese influencer Iris Hsieh, 31, was found unconscious in a bathtub in the same hotel room where Namewee was arrested.
Hsieh, a former nurse turned social media star, was well known for her beauty tips, comedic videos, and OnlyFans content, earning her the nickname “Nursing Goddess.”
She had reportedly arrived in Malaysia on October 20 to work on a film and music project with Namewee. But just two days later, she was found dead — sparking speculation and sorrow across Taiwan and Malaysia.
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Namewee Speaks Out
On social media, Namewee strongly denied using or carrying drugs.
> “I didn’t take drugs, and I didn’t carry any. At most, I’ve been drinking more lately,”
he wrote in a statement shared in Mandarin and Hokkien.
He also dismissed online rumors linking him to Hsieh’s death:
> “Believe it if you want, don’t if you don’t. When the police report comes out, everything will be clear.”
In another post, Namewee said he felt “deeply sorry” about Hsieh’s death, adding that ambulance services took nearly an hour to reach the hotel. He claimed he had remained silent earlier because the case was under investigation and that he had recently received blackmail threats but would “fight to the end.”
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Public Reaction
The tragedy has dominated social media in both Malaysia and Taiwan, with fans expressing disbelief and sadness.
Many praised Iris Hsieh’s kindness and humor, while others questioned whether Malaysia’s strict drug laws and sensational reporting might have amplified the controversy around Namewee.
Some commentators also noted that this case reflects the darker side of influencer culture, where fame, stress, and substance rumors often collide.
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Who Is Namewee?
Namewee is no stranger to controversy. He first became famous in 2007 with his viral parody song “Negarakuku”, which mocked Malaysia’s national anthem and triggered nationwide debate about free speech.
Over the years, his satirical works — such as Oh My God (2016) and Fragile (2021) — have tackled political, racial, and religious taboos. The latter song, a collaboration with Australian singer Kimberley Chen, was banned in China after poking fun at nationalism and censorship.
Despite numerous investigations and bans, Namewee continues to have a strong following across Asia, admired by many for his fearless artistic expression.
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The Investigation Continues
Police have yet to confirm if Iris Hsieh’s death is connected to Namewee’s drug charges.
For now, both cases are being handled separately, with autopsy and toxicology reports still pending.
As of now, Namewee remains out on bail, awaiting his court hearing in December.
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A Reminder of Fragile Fame
The deaths and scandals of public figures often highlight how fame can be both a blessing and a curse. The collaboration between Namewee and Iris Hsieh was meant to celebrate creativity — but it ended in tragedy and legal turmoil.
Fans across Asia continue to mourn Iris and hope for truth and justice, while Namewee’s future hangs in uncertainty.
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