Mainland actress Fan Bingbing’s recent appointment as tourism ambassador for Malaysia has sparked mixed reactions amidst ongoing scrutiny over her tax affairs. Despite the fanfare surrounding her new role promoting tourism in Malacca, concerns about her past tax evasion allegations continue to overshadow the positive coverage.
Critics online have questioned the rationale behind selecting Fan for the ambassadorship, highlighting her previous legal troubles compared to other Chinese celebrities perceived as having cleaner records. One observer remarked, “Why hire her? There are many other Chinese celebrities with no record of malpractice.” Another pointed out, “She evaded tax and faced censorship in China, yet she continues to secure international opportunities. This appointment is beyond my imagination.”
Fan Bingbing, 42, was once among China’s highest-earning stars and internationally renowned before being embroiled in a tax evasion scandal in 2018. She was accused of using dual contracts to conceal her true income, resulting in authorities ordering her to pay approximately 884 million yuan (US$122 million) in back taxes and penalties, a record sum for a celebrity tax case in China. Consequently, she was banned from acting and film production in China, significantly reducing her media presence in the country while her products remained available online.
Despite her domestic challenges, Fan has actively sought to enhance her global profile. Her appointment as tourism ambassador to Malaysia was greeted positively by some in China, with supporters highlighting her international stature and the honor it brings to the country. “She is a truly international star. That’s why she is so popular in Malaysia and has been named as the tourism ambassador,” commented one supporter on Weibo.
During her visit to Malacca from June 14-16, where she promoted tourism, Fan expressed gratitude and a sense of responsibility in her new role. Dressed in local traditional attire, she emphasized her task to promote Malacca’s rich history, scenic beauty, and cultural richness to a global audience. While she did not directly address questions about relocating to Malaysia or participating in its residency programs, Fan expressed familiarity with the country through colleagues and her interest in its culture.
In recent years, Fan has ventured into international projects, including attending prestigious film festivals and events abroad, despite her restrictions in China. She has been actively engaging in collaborative opportunities overseas, indicating a shift in her career focus beyond her home country.
Fan’s appointment in Malaysia underscored her ongoing efforts to rebuild her career and reputation following the tax scandal, garnering support from local fans during her visit. The warm reception included fans holding her images, posters, and seeking her autograph, reflecting her enduring popularity despite the controversies that have marked her career trajectory.
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