Popular Taiwanese model and influencer Iris Hsieh, 31, was found dead in a hotel bathtub in Malaysia, sparking widespread shock among fans across Asia. Authorities have launched a full investigation into her mysterious death, with the cause still pending autopsy results.
According to Malaysian police, they received a report on October 22, 2025, about an unconscious Taiwanese woman in a hotel room. When officers arrived, they found Iris Hsieh unresponsive in the bathtub, wrapped in a white towel. Police found nine blue pills nearby, believed to be drugs suspected to include ecstasy.
Initial investigations revealed no visible injuries on Hsieh’s body. Her remains were sent to Kuala Lumpur General Hospital for a detailed autopsy. Police are treating the case as a sudden death, pending toxicology and forensic results.
Malaysian singer Namewee linked to Iris Hsieh’s death
Reports confirm that Malaysian singer and rapper Namewee (42) was present at the scene. He told investigators that he had sexual intercourse with Hsieh earlier that day. When she went to the bathroom and remained silent, he checked and found her unconscious in the bathtub. Namewee claimed he attempted CPR before authorities arrived.
Police subsequently arrested Namewee on suspicion of drug possession and abuse under Malaysia’s Dangerous Drugs Act 1952; he was later released on bail. Investigators suspect that both may have consumed drugs prior to Hsieh’s death. The case was re-classified as murder on November 4, and Namewee was remanded to assist the investigation. The case is expected to go to trial on December 8.
On November 2, Namewee posted on Instagram denying all allegations of drug use or possession. He stated that he had remained silent while the case was under investigation and described earlier media reports as false.
Before becoming a social media star, Iris Hsieh worked as a nurse in Taiwan.
Her striking looks and confident presence earned her the nickname “Nurse Department Goddess.”
She later transitioned into modeling, live streaming, and content creation, building a strong following of over one million across her social media platforms.
Born Wee Meng Chee in Johor, Malaysia, Namewee is a well-known singer, rapper, and filmmaker. He rose to fame in 2007 with his controversial hit song Negarakuku, and later achieved regional success with Stranger in the North, a collaboration with Taiwanese-American singer Wang Leehom. Known for his socially charged lyrics and political commentary, Namewee remains a polarizing figure in the Malaysian entertainment industry.
Malaysian authorities have emphasised that the investigation is ongoing and that toxicology reports will be crucial in determining the exact cause of Iris Hsieh’s sudden death.
The tragic passing of Iris Hsieh has sent shockwaves through Taiwan’s entertainment and social media scenes, leaving fans around the world remembering the influencer for her beauty, talent, and charm.
Umm Habiba
Punjabi, Pakistan
