Authorities are conducting a murder investigation following the death of Taiwanese social media influencer Iris Hsieh, who was discovered in a hotel bathtub in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, on Wednesday, October 22, 2025.
The 31-year-old, known to 546,000 Instagram followers as the “Nurse Goddess” due to her nursing background and lifestyle content, was found unresponsive at around 1:40 p.m. local time at the Banyan Tree Hotel on Jalan Conlay in downtown Kuala Lumpur.
Initially deemed a sudden death, the case was reclassified as a homicide following the emergence of new evidence and forensic analysis. Kuala Lumpur police chief Datuk Fadil Marsus announced the change in the investigation’s status on Tuesday, November 4, indicating potential foul play in Hsieh’s death.
Malaysian rapper Namewee, born Wee Meng Chee, has become a key figure in the investigation as the last individual seen with Hsieh. The 42-year-old artist reportedly shared the hotel room with the influencer at the time. According to Marsus, Namewee was arrested on October 22 for alleged drug possession and use but was released after pleading not guilty to drug charges on October 24 at the Jalan Duta Court.
Police reports show officers discovered pills believed to be ecstasy during Namewee’s arrest. He tested positive for several illegal substances, including amphetamines, methamphetamine, ketamine, and THC. He was detained for two days before his release and faces possible legal consequences under Malaysian law.
Namewee publicly denied drug use in an Instagram statement, asserting, “at most I’ve been drinking more recently.” He also expressed regret over Hsieh’s death, claiming the ambulance “was nearly an hour late” in responding to the incident. He stated that the truth would emerge once the police report is released, estimating a timeframe of two to three months.
On November 5, Namewee surrendered to authorities to assist in the ongoing investigation. He wrote on Instagram that he would fully cooperate with the police and be responsible to the public and Hsieh’s family.
Marsus stated that investigators are thoroughly examining the circumstances of Hsieh’s death. “Investigations are ongoing from all angles, including individuals who were last with the victim. We will review all movements of both the victim and the suspect to determine whether he is a suspect,” he told local media.
Detectives have collected statements from hotel staff, security personnel, and transport operators, including airport staff. The investigation team is also reviewing closed-circuit television footage to trace Hsieh’s movements before her death. Marsus emphasized that the investigation involves examining every movement of both the victim and the last person seen with her.
Hsieh, whose full name was Hsieh Yu-hsin, traveled to Malaysia for a planned four-day visit. Her manager initially reported her death as a result of a heart attack, which left her unable to receive emergency treatment. However, the family may request further investigation into her death, according to reports from the New Straits Times.
The influencer had built a significant following on various social media platforms, blending health advice with lifestyle and travel content. Her trip to Malaysia was meant to create content with Namewee, a controversial artist known for addressing taboo subjects in his work.
The case has attracted international attention, especially in Taiwan and across Asian social media communities where Hsieh and Namewee have large followings. Supporters have launched online campaigns calling for justice, sharing memories of Hsieh’s content that combined vulnerability with empowering messages.
Marsus emphasized that despite Namewee’s proximity to the scene and subsequent drug charges, the investigation remains active with no arrests beyond those related to controlled substances. The police chief noted that authorities will determine whether to consider the rapper a suspect after reviewing all evidence and witness statements.
Hsieh’s family is coordinating with Malaysian officials for body repatriation, a process complicated by the ongoing murder investigation and bureaucratic requirements. The exact cause of death remains under examination, pending post-mortem and toxicology reports, which will be central to determining the investigation’s direction and potential charges.
