KUALA LUMPUR — Popular Malaysian rapper Namewee has been charged with illegal drug use and possession, local media reported Monday, citing Kuala Lumpur police.
The 42-year-old musician, known for his satirical and controversial songs on topics ranging from religion to censorship, pleaded not guilty to both charges and was released on bail following his arrest last month.
Police said Namewee was arrested on October 22 in a hotel room where officers found pills believed to be ecstasy (MDMA). Subsequent tests indicated the presence of amphetamines, methamphetamine, ketamine, and THC. He was remanded for two days.
If convicted of drug possession, Namewee could face up to five years in prison and corporal punishment.
In an Instagram post, Namewee denied using or carrying drugs, stating, “The truth will be out when the police report is released.” He also expressed sorrow over the death of Taiwanese influencer Iris Hsieh, who was found dead in a hotel bathtub in the same building where Namewee was staying.
Namewee has been involved in past controversies over his music, including the 2016 video Oh My God, criticized for allegedly offending religious sensibilities, and the 2021 viral song Fragile, which satirized Chinese nationalism and touched on politically sensitive issues such as Taiwan’s sovereignty and the persecution of Uyghurs.
