In 2024, Chinese actress Fan Bingbing (范冰冰) was appointed the Tourism Ambassador for the state of Melaka. While the decision received mixed reactions, Fan Bingbing’s positive impact on Melaka’s tourism was enough to earn her a Datukship.
Yesterday (24th August 2025, Sunday), the Chinese actress was conferred the Darjah Pangkuan Seri Melaka (DPSM) for her contribution to Melaka tourism. Following her appointment as Tourism Ambassador, the number of tourists from China in 2024 nearly tripled the previous year. Fan Bingbing was even recognised in the Malaysian Book of Records for “Largest Digital Hits for Malaysian Tourism on WeChat Platform Using Celebrity Ambassador”.
At the investiture ceremony held in conjunction with the birthday of Yang di-Pertua Negeri Tun Dr Mohd Ali Rustam, Fan Bingbing spoke to the press to express her joy of receiving the honour. She said, “This is such a precious gift to me,” adding that she deeply treasures the recognition. She also kissed the medal to show her respect and gratitude for the award, which carries the title of Datuk.
The 44-year-old also pledged to continue promoting Melaka to global tourists, saying, “I will be here in Melaka next month to promote tourism and will travel here frequently.” It’s unclear whether the state will extend the actress’s tenure as Melaka’s Tourism Ambassador. However, Fan Bingbing has been making appearances in Malaysia lately, including in the Klang Valley last Saturday for the launch of her brand, Fan Beauty Diary, in Watsons Malaysia stores.
Local and international fans have congratulated the actress on her new accolade. Some also said they hope to see more of her in Melaka and Malaysia in the future. For those wondering, Fan Bingbing joins Bollywood actor Datuk Shah Rukh Khan and Hong Kong star Datuk Jackie Chan (成龙) in the list of international stars who were previously honoured by Malaysia for their contributions to tourism.
Congratulations to Datuk Fan Bingbing on her award! We hope she will continue to promote Melaka and Malaysia to the world. Here are some videos from the investiture ceremony:
@orientaldailymalaysia 范冰冰受封拿督 #fanbingbing #datuk #melaka
@orientaldailymalaysia 拿督范冰冰：将为马六甲带来更多好故事 Datuk Fan Bing Bing #fanbingbing #melaka
Sources: The Star, China Press
