‘King Khan’ Shah Rukh, the superstar of Bollywood, has confirmed that he will be going to Malacca for accepting the Malaysian honor — Darjah Mulia Seri Melaka (DMSM) award.

The actor, who will be paying his own airfare, will receive the traditional Malaysian title of ‘Datuk’, similar to the British knighthood. The award will be given next month by Malacca Yang di-Pertua Negri Tun Mohd Khalil Yaakob.

Confirming that Shah Rukh would be there at the ceremony, Chief Minister Mohd Ali Rustam said: “Shah Rukh Khan has agreed to accept it and this was conveyed to the Governor’s Office. His fans can also come and see him there if they want to.”

Rustam said that former Finance Minister Tun Daim Zainuddin - who pitched Mohd Khalil for honouring Shah Rukh - was making arrangements for the actor’s trip to the country.

‘The Star’ quoted Rustam as saying that the Malaccans will offer accommodation to Shah Rukh, but beyond that “not a Sen” - the lowest Malaysian monetary denomination – “will be spent by the exchequer.”

Rustam said Shah Rukh, who is hugely popular in Malaysia, would be encouraged to stay for two-three days in the State, with the hope that he would visit some of the famed sites - the Taming Sari Tower and Eye on Malaysia ferris wheel.

A lot of controversy has stirred up about Shah Rukh being conferred the title of ‘Datuk’, with many people questioning whether he really deserves it. Critics have asked what the Bollywood actor has done for Malaysia to deserve a Datukship.

Rustam told reporters: “Despite the criticisms, I still believe Shah Rukh deserves the title.”