(As reported by CNA, Nov 3, 2025)
Malaysian rapper Namewee (Wee Meng Chee), known for his outspoken lyrics and political satire, is facing fresh controversy after being charged with drug possession and use while also being linked to the sudden death of Taiwanese influencer Iris Hsieh Yu-hsin.
According to reports by Sin Chew Daily and CNA, the 31-year-old Hsieh — affectionately called the “nurse goddess” by fans — was found unresponsive in a hotel bathtub in Cameron Highlands on Oct 30. She had been filming a video project with Namewee at the time. The rapper reportedly discovered her body, attempted CPR, and called emergency services.
In a statement released on Instagram, Namewee, 42, denied any involvement in Hsieh’s death and expressed frustration at public speculation. He also criticised Malaysia’s slow emergency response, saying:
“The ambulance took nearly an hour to arrive… When I called to ask, I even got scolded.”
Police later confirmed that Namewee had been detained on Oct 22 after a hotel room inspection uncovered nine blue pills suspected to be ecstasy. A urine test returned positive results for amphetamine, methamphetamine, ketamine, and cannabis. He was subsequently charged under Malaysia’s Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 for possession and use, offences that carry up to five years in prison and nine strokes of the cane.
Wee pleaded not guilty and was released on RM4,000 bail per charge. The case is scheduled for mention on Dec 18.
In his statement, the rapper insisted he was innocent:
“I did not take drugs, nor did I possess any. At most, I’ve just been drinking a little more lately.”
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He also alleged that he and his team had faced blackmail attempts related to the case, adding:
“If they want to keep playing this game, we’re ready to see it through.”
Namewee rose to prominence in 2007 for his viral parody of Malaysia’s national anthem and has remained a controversial figure due to his criticism of both Malaysian and Chinese authorities. He has previously faced legal charges over his work, including a 2014 case related to a satirical video about Malaysia’s power grid.
As of now, Malaysian police maintain that investigations into both Hsieh’s death and Namewee’s alleged drug offences are ongoing.
