'I feel very fortunate to have met her and taken a photo together,' Fan Bingbing says of her encounter with Siti Nurhaliza. Photo: Instagram
Melaka's Tourism Friendship Ambassador, Datuk Fan Bingbing, has expressed her admiration for the nation's top singer, Datuk Seri Siti Nurhaliza, and revealed her desire to learn how to sing Malay songs from the acclaimed artiste.
Fan shared that witnessing the performance of the National Songstress at last night's (Sept 27) launch of the Visit Malaysia Year 2026 was a source of inspiration, describing Siti's artistic journey as truly extraordinary.
"Her stage presence is incredibly powerful. I was captivated by how Siti Nurhaliza delivered a closing performance with such brilliance, and I certainly look forward to her future shows.
"I feel very fortunate to have met her and taken a photo together. If the opportunity arises, I would love to learn Malay songs from her, which could also serve as a form of cultural collaboration," she said at a press conference today.
The international actress added that she was especially delighted to have presented Siti with products from her own brand as a token of her appreciation.
Fan also expressed her willingness to expand artistic collaborations with international and local artistes to promote Melaka on the global stage, following her recent reappointment for the 2026 Visit Melaka Year.
She said the success of the promotional activities in 2025 motivated her to return and focus on introducing the historic state’s unique culture, food, murals and the warmth of its local community to international tourists.
"Although plans for specific projects, such as new murals or promotional videos, have not yet been finalised, I am excited to do this again. The reception from the people and leaders of Melaka has been incredibly warm, and this role indirectly opens up opportunities for global interaction through tourism.
"I believe visitor numbers are not the only measure of success. What is more important is that every visitor returns home with beautiful memories of Melaka. That is what is truly meaningful," she added.
Fan also highlighted Melaka's significant potential as a location for film production and artistic performances, citing its cultural diversity and unique heritage.
The actress, who previously starred in the Hollywood blockbuster X-Men: Days Of Future Past also noted that she has had the opportunity to meet with several young Malaysian directors, including Chong Keat Aun, in the course of her promotional work for the state. - Bernama
