KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 15 — Calling all Zhang Linghe fans! The Chinese actor is bringing his star power to Taobao’s Double 11 shopping festival, with an exclusive livestream, behind-the-scenes videos, limited-edition merchandise and a special event in Kuala Lumpur.
The popular C-drama star has been unveiled as the face of Taobao Tmall World’s latest global campaign, which kicked off yesterday with the premiere of a new brand film featuring the actor.
And for Malaysian fans, there is plenty to look forward to beyond seeing their favourite star on screen.
A Zhang Linghe-themed event is set to take place in Kuala Lumpur on October 24, giving visitors a chance to take part in special activities and walk away with limited-edition merchandise featuring the actor.
The venue, opening hours and participation details have yet to be announced, but Taobao said updates would be shared through its official local social media channels.
The collaboration also comes with a series of digital treats for fans.
From October 14 to November 13, Taobao users in Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, Hong Kong and Taiwan can join a daily treasure hunt through the shopping app to collect points and unlock exclusive rewards.
By completing tasks such as checking into the app, browsing products, placing orders or inviting friends, users can earn what Taobao calls “Ling Points”.
Regular check-ins will progressively unlock eight exclusive behind-the-scenes videos featuring Zhang, offering fans more opportunities to see the actor away from his drama roles.
The points can also be redeemed for Zhang-themed phone wallpapers, stickers, in-app skins, voice messages, Taobao red packets and merchandise.
For particularly dedicated fans, there is an added incentive: top-ranking participants will have a chance to receive autographed gifts and other limited-edition rewards.
And there is more.
Zhang will make a special appearance during the Double 11 festival through an exclusive livestream on the Taobao app, connecting with fans across 11 markets in real time.
The livestream schedule and participation details will be announced later through Taobao’s official Instagram account and app.
Speaking about the partnership, Zhang said his curiosity and interests outside acting have helped shape the characters he portrays on screen.
“Exploring new things and spending time on hobbies help me discover more possibilities in life and bring inspiration to the different characters I play,” he said.
“I’m delighted to partner with Taobao and invite users around the world to explore the app with me and experience the joy of shopping, where surprises await at every turn.”
The actor’s growing popularity across South-east Asia, particularly in Malaysia and Thailand, is central to the campaign, which also highlights his off-screen interests in sports, pets and anime.
In the newly released brand film, Zhang moves between different settings showcasing fashion, lifestyle products, smart devices and quirky finds, reflecting Taobao’s six refreshed shopping experiences: Quality, Taste, Lifestyle, Trendy, Smart and Surprise.
Filmed using a motion-control robotic camera arm, the commercial follows Zhang through a series of fluid transitions designed to capture the experience of discovering products while browsing the app.
The campaign is also heading outdoors, with large-format billboards and other displays planned for Kuala Lumpur, Bangkok, Singapore and prominent Hong Kong locations, including Mong Kok, Tsim Sha Tsui and Causeway Bay.
Zhang-themed events will kick off in Hong Kong today, followed by Bangkok and Kuala Lumpur on October 24.
For Malaysian fans eager to score exclusive Zhang Linghe collectibles, October is shaping up to be a particularly rewarding month.
