KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 9 — Police are set to apply for a remand extension against Malaysian rapper and filmmaker Wee Meng Chee, popularly known as Namewee, as investigations continue into the death of Taiwanese social media personality Hsieh Yu-hsin at a hotel in the city last month, The New Straits Times reported.
Dang Wangi district police chief Assistant Commissioner Sazalee Adam confirmed today that the extension would be sought tomorrow, once the current remand order expires.
The case has drawn widespread attention in both Malaysia and Taiwan, following reports that Hsieh, known online as Iris Hsieh, was found dead in the bathroom of a hotel room along Jalan Conlay on October 22.
The 31-year-old influencer was said to have been staying there with Namewee, 42, who later surrendered himself to police in the early hours of November 5.
Officers subsequently secured a remand order for questioning until November 10.
Namewee’s arrest was made under Section 302 of the Penal Code for murder.
Authorities have not disclosed whether any foul play has been confirmed pending the completion of toxicology and post-mortem reports, which could take up to three months.
Namewee, known for his provocative lyrics and satirical takes on Malaysian politics and culture, has courted controversy throughout his career — including previous run-ins with authorities over alleged sedition and public obscenity.
Hsieh, who gained a following in Taiwan for her travel and lifestyle content, had been visiting Malaysia for work engagements prior to her death.
The case has sparked a wave of speculation online, prompting police to urge the public to avoid spreading unverified information.
