Malaysian rapper Namewee (real name Wee Meng Chee) has been detained by police in Kuala Lumpur in connection with the death of Taiwanese influencer Iris Hsieh (real name Hsieh Yu Hsin).
According to the South China Morning Post (SCMP) on Friday, Namewee voluntarily turned himself in after a series of arrest warrants were issued. On Wednesday, he posted on social media acknowledging potential criminal charges and pledging full cooperation with authorities. In a video shared outside the police station, he said, “I will not run. I am voluntarily reporting myself regarding the previous seven warrants.”
Iris Hsieh, a former nurse turned influencer, was found dead in a hotel bathtub in Kuala Lumpur on October 22 at approximately 1:40 p.m. While authorities initially cited cardiac arrest as the cause of death, the investigation has since shifted toward a potential homicide based on further evidence.
Iris Hsieh had gained notoriety for her daring fashion choices. In 2022, she posted a photo in revealing attire in front of Italy’s Colosseum that received over 15,000 likes. She also drew international attention in Paris when she wore a sheer bralette at the Louvre Museum, prompting police intervention. The incident sparked debate over freedom of expression versus appropriate attire for cultural landmarks. The Louvre’s official visitor guidelines prohibit actions such as being shirtless, wearing swimwear, nudity, or engaging in lewd behavior.
Reports indicate that Iris Hsieh, who had more than 500,000 social media followers, was staying in the hotel with Namewee shortly before her death. Police discovered pills suspected to be drugs in the hotel room. Subsequent tests reportedly confirmed the presence of amphetamine, methamphetamine, ketamine, and THC.
Namewee faces charges related to drug possession and use but has been released on bail. He denies any involvement in Iris Hsieh’s death, stating on social media, “I deeply regret [her passing]. The truth will be revealed once the police report is made public.”
A Chinese-Malaysian artist, Namewee is known for tackling taboo topics in Malaysia—including pornography, religion, and Chinese censorship—through satirical music and videos. In 2021, he released “Fragile,” a politically charged track mocking Chinese nationalism and addressing sensitive issues such as Taiwan’s sovereignty and the treatment of Uighurs in Xinjiang. While widely popular among Chinese-speaking audiences, the song was banned in China.
In Malaysia, drug possession charges carry severe penalties, including up to five years in prison and potential corporal punishment.
