Shockwaves are rippling through the Asian entertainment world after Malaysian rapper Namewee was taken into custody in connection with the death of Taiwanese influencer Iris Hsieh, who was found dead in a hotel bathtub late last month.
The 31-year-old influencer — whose real name is Hsieh Yu-hsin and who was affectionately nicknamed “Nurse Goddess” by fans — was discovered unresponsive on October 22 at a luxury hotel in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Police have since reclassified the case as a suspected murder, after initially labeling it a sudden death.
A Collaboration That Ended in Tragedy
Hsieh had traveled to Malaysia to discuss a commercial video project with Namewee (real name Wee Meng Chee), who was set to direct the production, according to her social media manager. He is believed to have been the last person to see her alive.
Malaysian authorities confirmed that Namewee contacted emergency services shortly after midnight when he allegedly found Hsieh unresponsive. During their investigation, police reportedly discovered nine blue pills believed to be ecstasy in the hotel room and said the rapper tested positive for multiple illicit substances, including methamphetamine and THC.
The 42-year-old rapper has denied all wrongdoing, stating in a recent Instagram post that “the truth will speak for itself.”
Investigation Continues
Namewee’s lawyer, Joshua Tay, told reporters that the investigation remains active and that his client’s remand was extended by three days as authorities continue their inquiry. On Monday, the rapper pleaded not guilty to separate drug possession charges and was released on bail.
Known for his outspoken lyrics and controversial artistry, Namewee rose to fame for his Mandarin-language hits but has faced multiple controversies in both Malaysia and China, where he was blacklisted in 2021 for mocking Chinese nationalism in a viral song.
Meanwhile, Hsieh — who had more than 500,000 Instagram followers — is being remembered by fans as a vibrant online personality whose career blended modeling, beauty, and lifestyle content. Her family, unable to travel due to health issues, continues to seek answers.
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