A tragic case involving a young Taiwanese man has made headlines after he was found dead in Malaysia under disturbing circumstances. The 22-year-old, identified as Peng Yuanting, had reportedly travelled alone to Malaysia to visit a friend — a trip that quickly turned into a nightmare.
Peng’s death has raised concerns about drug abuse, coercion, and the vulnerability of young travellers overseas. His family alleges he was held against his will and force-fed drugs, which eventually led to his erratic behaviour in public and sudden death.
Friend Allegedly Confiscated Passport, Forced Drug Use
According to reports from Chinese-language outlet China Press, Peng had recently completed his mandatory military service in Taiwan. He then flew to Malaysia without informing his family, staying with a fellow Taiwanese friend based in Selangor.
The family claims this “friend” confiscated Peng’s passport and forcibly administered illicit substances to him over an undisclosed period. Repeated requests by the family to have Peng’s passport returned were allegedly ignored, preventing him from returning to Taiwan.
Behaviour Turns Bizarre Before Sudden Collapse
The situation came to light on 6 July, around 11:05am, when Peng was spotted exhibiting highly unusual behaviour in public. Eyewitnesses reported seeing him walking around in only his underwear, lying on the road and later on a grass patch, where he began eating soil.
Shocking footage of the incident, which has since gone viral on social media, showed Peng also damaging public property. He was seen smashing vehicle windows and rearview mirrors before collapsing suddenly. Emergency responders pronounced him dead at the scene.
Autopsy Confirms Multiple Drugs in System
Authorities have since confirmed that a toxicology report revealed at least three types of drugs in Peng’s system, including methamphetamine and cannabis. Malaysian police are treating the case as a sudden death, though further investigations are ongoing.
The incident underscores the dangers of drug trafficking, peer coercion, and the mental health crisis surrounding young adults abroad — many of whom may fall victim to exploitation under the guise of friendship.
Family Flies to Malaysia for Final Goodbye
Peng’s family flew to Malaysia shortly after the incident to identify his body. A cremation ceremony was held on 23 July, reportedly attended by close family members. A China Press journalist present at the service described the mood as heart-wrenching, with Peng’s mother inconsolable throughout.
The ashes are expected to be brought back to Taiwan on 25 July for final rites. The family has yet to announce if legal proceedings will be pursued.
Calls for Accountability and Greater Awareness
The case has sparked public outrage across Taiwan and Malaysia, with many calling for justice and stronger safeguards for citizens travelling abroad. Critics also questioned the apparent lack of intervention despite Peng’s public distress being recorded.
This case highlights the need for increased awareness around drug-facilitated crimes, cross-border safety, and youth protection. As stories like these continue to emerge, mental health education, safe travel practices, and legal literacy become even more vital — not just for young people, but for the families who love them.