Malaysian rapper Namewee, whose real name is Wee Meng Chee, has been remanded for six days while authorities probe the mysterious death of Taiwanese influencer Hsieh Yu-hsin, known online as Iris Hsieh. Her death, initially ruled as sudden, has now been reclassified as a murder case by Malaysian police.
Wee, who voluntarily surrendered to the police, denied speculation that he had fled the country. In an Instagram post before his surrender, the controversial artist stated that he had returned from Johor Bahru to Kuala Lumpur and had already arranged to meet investigators. “I will fully cooperate with the police and be accountable to the public and the deceased’s family,” he wrote.
Magistrate Grants Six-Day Remand After Police Sought Seven
According to reports from China Press, Malaysian authorities initially requested a seven-day remand for Wee to aid in their investigation. However, the magistrate granted a six-day remand instead. Wee’s legal representative opposed the request, citing that the alleged incident had occurred two weeks prior and arguing that further detention was unnecessary. The lawyer told local media that no additional details could be shared at this stage.
Body of Influencer Found in Kuala Lumpur Hotel
The case has gripped public attention across Malaysia, Taiwan, and Singapore. The 31-year-old influencer’s body was discovered in a luxury hotel along Jalan Conlay in Kuala Lumpur on 22 October, around 1:40 pm. Initially, the police treated the discovery as a sudden death, but subsequent investigations prompted a murder classification after it was revealed that Namewee was the last known person to have seen Hsieh alive.
Following the reclassification, a manhunt was launched after authorities claimed they were unable to locate the rapper. Hours later, Wee publicly refuted claims of evasion, asserting his willingness to cooperate. He was later seen arriving at a Kuala Lumpur police station with his lawyer to assist in the ongoing inquiry.
Public Reaction and Ongoing Investigation
The case has sparked intense debate online, with fans and critics expressing shock over the allegations. Many are calling for transparency as police continue to investigate the circumstances leading to Hsieh’s death.
As the probe unfolds, Malaysian media report that investigators are now focusing on forensic evidence and witness statements to determine the exact cause of death. The authorities have yet to confirm whether additional suspects will be brought in for questioning.