It appears that Chinese actress Fan Bingbing (范冰冰) will soon add another accolade to her name. To celebrate her contribution to Melaka’s tourism, the star will receive a Datukship later this week.
According to news reports, the actress will be honoured with a Datukship at the upcoming investiture ceremony in conjunction with the birthday of Yang di-Pertua Negeri Tun Dr Mohd Ali Rustam. The event will take place this Sunday (24th August 2025). Melaka Chief Minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh confirmed the news yesterday (Thursday, 21st August 2025) during a groundbreaking ceremony for SM Pay Fong’s new hostel building.
The Chief Minister said the award was in appreciation of Fan Bingbing’s influence as Melaka’s tourism ambassador. Following her appointment as tourism ambassador in 2024, the Malaysian state saw a significant increase in the number of tourists, particularly from China, in the past year. Datuk Seri Ab Raud Yusoh said, “She has helped catapult the historic city into the global tourism spotlight, and we deeply appreciate her efforts.”
However, the politician denied the rumours that Fan Bingbing is receiving a Datuk Wira title. He said, “Of course, we will still recognise Fan Bingbing’s contribution to Malacca’s tourism industry and award her with other honours, but not Datuk Wira.” While he never disclosed the actual award, the 44-year-old will likely receive an Honorary Datuk title (Datuk Kehormat), as this is the highest honour for foreigners.
In the meantime, Fan Bingbing is preparing to launch her Fan Beauty Diary brand into Watsons Malaysia stores this week. In celebration of the occasion, the actress will appear at two Watsons stores in the Klang Valley this Saturday. Fans who are keen on meeting the star can meet her at Watsons Sunway Pyramid and Watsons The Exchange TRX. There are also events in place for fans to interact with her.
Guess fans can soon refer to the star as Datuk Fan Bingbing starting next week. What are your thoughts on this?
Sources: China Press, The Star
