Malaysian officials ruled the deaths of a Singaporean couple as suicides on May 18, 2025. The pair was found dead in a Kuala Lumpur guesthouse two days earlier.
The deceased were identified as Xie Jin De, 43, and Zhuang Shu Yi, 33, a married couple, according to Kuala Lumpur police chief Comm Datuk Rusdi Mohd Isa.
Guesthouse staff discovered their bodies in a room at the establishment on Jalan Nadchatiram in Taman Taynton View, Cheras. Workers noticed their shoes remained outside after checkout time. When knocks went unanswered, an employee entered with management approval at approximately 12:53 PM and found the bodies on the bed.
The room’s television, air conditioner, and fan were still running at the time of discovery.
Police investigation revealed the couple had sealed all ventilation openings on doors and windows with tape and garbage bags. “They used a grill, sealed the room, and we have also informed the family about the matter,” the KL police chief stated.
Authorities found burnt charcoal remnants in the room, along with ketamine on a plate. The bodies showed signs of decomposition and had a strong odor when found. The couple had stayed at the guesthouse for five nights before their deaths.
In related information, the Serdang Police Chief disclosed that Xie faced charges for allegedly sexually assaulting an underage girl. He was scheduled to appear in court on May 14, 2025, to face charges under Section 14(a) of the Child Sexual Offences Act 2017. This law carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and caning upon conviction. Police had attempted to contact Xie prior to his death without success.
Records show Xie had previously been charged with overstaying in Malaysia. Officials confirmed Zhuang had no criminal record.
Cheras Police Chief, Adil Bolhassan, noted they hadn’t excluded the possibility that Xie’s unwillingness to face jail time for his crimes in Malaysia might have prompted the suicide. The investigation continues.
Police reports indicate the couple did not leave a will.
Aidil added that investigators now focus on determining the exact cause of death. Other crimes involving Xie prior to his death will be examined with Selangor police assistance.
Malaysian authorities encourage individuals with mental health challenges to seek help.
