The title ‘Datuk’ is a prestigious honour in Malaysia, often conferred by Sultans, Yang di-Pertua Negeri, or the Yang di-Pertuan Agong to distinguished individuals who have made significant contributions to the nation or their respective states.

While most recipients of the title are Malaysians, it is occasionally awarded to non-Malaysians as well. Here are some notable foreign figures who have received the Datuk title and the reasons behind their recognition:

1. Datuk Fan Bingbing

Image Credit: The Straits Times

Fan Bingbing, a highly popular Chinese actress, was conferred the Darjah Pangkuan Seri Melaka (DPSM) in August 2025.

She received the title during an investiture ceremony held in conjunction with the birthday celebration of Melaka's Yang di-Pertua Negeri. Fan was awarded the honorary title ‘Datuk Kehormat’ in recognition of her influence in attracting visitors to Melaka and significantly boosting the state’s visibility on the global tourism stage.

In 2024, she was also appointed as Melaka's Tourism Friendship Ambassador, further cementing her role in promoting the state internationally.

2. Datuk Seri Rossa

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Indonesian singer Rossa is perhaps the only foreign celebrity to be conferred the title ‘Datuk Seri’, a higher-ranking honor than ‘Datuk’. She received the award in October 2018 from the Sultan of Pahang, Sultan Ahmad Shah, during the Pahang State Honours Investiture Ceremony.

Rossa, whose full name is Rosa Roslaina Handiyani, was born in Sumedang, Indonesia. She began her singing career in 1995 and is known for hits such as ‘Atas Nama Cinta’, ‘Ayat-Ayat Cinta’, and ‘Aku Bukanlah Untukmu’.

3. Datuk Shah Rukh Khan

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Did you know that one of Bollywood’s biggest stars has been awarded the title ‘Datuk’?

Shah Rukh Khan (SRK) received the honour from the state of Melaka for his contributions to Malaysian tourism. Several of his films, including Don and Don 2, were filmed in Malaysia, which helped boost the country’s tourism industry.

Fun fact: SRK is the first Indian actor to be conferred the Datuk title.

4. Datuk Jackie Chan

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Another legendary actor on the list, Jackie Chan, was awarded the title ‘Datuk’ in February 2015.

The honour was conferred by Yang di-Pertuan Agong Tuanku Alhaj Abdul Halim Mu'adzam Shah at the National Palace. The kung fu superstar was among 356 recipients of various awards and medals that day.

While some Malaysians questioned the decision, Datuk Seri Tengku Adnan Mansor defended the award, stating that Jackie Chan’s massive fanbase in Malaysia could help promote the country and Kuala Lumpur internationally.

5. Datuk Jean Todt

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Though not a celebrity in the traditional sense, Jean Todt, former CEO of Ferrari’s Formula One team, was awarded the Datuk title by the Sultan of Terengganu, Sultan Mizan Zainal Abidin, on July 20, 2006.

While the specific reason for the award was not widely reported, Todt, who is also known as the long-time partner and now husband of actress Michelle Yeoh, received the Darjah Dato’ Paduka Mahkota Terengganu (DPMT) during the Sultan’s 44th birthday celebrations in Kuala Terengganu.

Featured Image Credit: Hype Malaysia, MalaysiaGazette, Vogue Arabia