Namewee acquitted of murder, drug charges
Translated from Chinese, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Malaysian singer Namewee was acquitted of four charges including drug use, possession, and murder related to the death of Taiwanese internet celebrity Xie Yuxin.
- Namewee spent over ten days in detention and underwent a thorough police investigation, which ultimately proved his innocence.
- He expressed relief at being cleared but lamented the irreparable damage to his reputation caused by media reports and online rumors, vowing to pursue legal action against those who spread misinformation.
Malaysian singer Namewee, also known as Huang Mingzhi, has been officially acquitted of four charges, including drug use, possession, and murder, stemming from his alleged involvement in the death of Taiwanese internet celebrity Xie Yuxin. The singer announced his acquittal, stating he had received official documentation from the federal court clearing him of all charges.
I was finally acquitted.
Namewee revealed that he had spent over ten days in detention and faced a comprehensive investigation that included searches of his residence, office, and electronic devices. He noted the police's professional approach and advanced equipment ensured no detail was overlooked, ultimately confirming his innocence. Despite the legal vindication, Namewee expressed that the damage to his image over the past six months was profound, feeling he was "sentenced to death by public opinion" from the start.
I have received the federal court's official letter withdrawing the charges.
He criticized media outlets for reporting unverified information, fabricating statements, and exaggerating his appearance, such as using AI-altered photos and focusing on his courtroom presence while in a wheelchair due to a foot injury. Namewee asserted he never granted any media interviews, accusing some outlets of sensationalism and personal vendettas. He observed that in the current media landscape, "people often want to see a bloody trial, not the boring truth," making legal vindication the only recourse against pre-judgment.
I feel truly free now.
Namewee plans to pursue legal action against individuals and media entities that spread malicious rumors and false information, seeking to recover damages to his reputation and finances. He extended gratitude to friends, mentors, his lawyer, and his friend Joko Toh for their unwavering support during the ordeal. He also thanked his agent for securing work and funds, his colleagues, family, business partners, and fans who remained loyal.
I have always felt sad about Xie Yuxin's passing and regret not being able to save her. I hope she rests in peace.
Originally published by Liberty Times in Chinese. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.