Malaysian rapper Namewee has been charged with illegal drug use and possession following his arrest last month. The 42-year-old, known for his satirical music, has denied the charges and was released on bail.
Charges and Arrest Details
Local media reported on Monday that Namewee was charged with illegal drug use and possession, citing Kuala Lumpur police. He pleaded not guilty to both charges. Authorities stated he was arrested on October 22 in a hotel room in Kuala Lumpur.
Police Findings and Statements
Kuala Lumpur police chief Fadil Marsus confirmed that pills believed to be ecstasy (MDMA) were found in the hotel room. Namewee subsequently tested positive for illicit substances, including amphetamines, methamphetamine, ketamine, and THC, and was remanded for two days. If convicted of drug possession, he faces a potential sentence of up to five years in jail and caning.
Connection to Iris Hsieh Incident
A police official informed local media that Namewee was present at the same hotel as Taiwanese influencer Iris Hsieh, who was found deceased in her hotel room bathtub.
Namewee's Statements
Namewee addressed the situation in an Instagram post, denying using or carrying drugs and stating, "The truth will be out when the police report is released." He also expressed "deep sorrow" regarding Hsieh's death, noting that an ambulance took "nearly an hour" to arrive at the scene. He claimed to have remained silent due to an ongoing investigation and reported receiving "blackmail," vowing to "fight to the end." It remains unclarified whether his reference to an investigation pertains to his drug charges or Hsieh's death.
Prior Controversies
Namewee has a history of addressing controversial topics in his music. In 2016, he was arrested in Malaysia for his music video "Oh My God," filmed at various places of worship, which critics deemed religiously insensitive. In 2021, his song "Fragile" satirized Chinese nationalists and addressed subjects such as Taiwan's sovereignty and the treatment of Uyghurs in Xinjiang. The song gained widespread attention among Mandarin-speaking audiences but was subsequently banned in China.