In a bid to elevate its status on the global stage, Malaysia is setting its sights on spotlighting premium durian cultivars, including the Black Thorn, Red Prawn, and Hajah Hasmah. According to Datuk Nor Sam Alwi, director-general of the country’s Department of Agriculture, these lesser-known varieties are undergoing evaluations for future certification and export readiness, focusing on their flavor profile, texture, shelf life, and suitability for long-distance shipping.
China, the top consumer of durians globally, is particularly interested in these exclusive variants, with consumers willing to pay a premium for quality. To facilitate this ambitious plan, the Department of Agriculture is diligently working to register more local cultivars and perform vital agronomic assessments.
On top of this, the department is ramping up efforts to ensure Malaysian farms meet the stringent import standards of their international buyers. This includes compliance with pest control measures, robust traceability systems, and comprehensive export certification schemes.
Abdul Rashid Bahri, director-general of the Federal Agricultural Marketing Authority, pointed out that other elite varieties like IOI and D9 are also undergoing assessments to ensure they comply with the phytosanitary and quality standards expected by export markets, particularly China. Moreover, the agency is actively looking to expand durian exports to new territories, including the U.K., Canada, the UAE, Australia, and the Netherlands.
The durian, often hailed as the “king of fruits,” garners a staggering array of commercially available cultivars—over 200 registered varieties in Malaysia alone. Musang King, long celebrated as the nation’s prized export, remains fiercely protected under Malaysian intellectual property laws, recently renewed for another decade.
Yet, the landscape is shifting with the emergence of newer varieties like the pricey Tupai King, which have shaken up the traditional dominance of Musang King. Beyond these rising stars lies an even broader kaleidoscope of lesser-known durians, such as Hor Lor, Mas Hijau (Green Gold), and the D24 (Sultan).
Consumer appetite for diverse flavors is surging, with many seeking out regional and distinctive kampung durians. The Malaysian Agricultural Research and Development Institute (MARDI) is capitalizing on this trend by developing new hybrid varieties that cater to both local tastes and international markets. A standout in this effort is the MDUR 88, a cross between D10 and D24, boasting a golden yellow hue and a creamy texture that draws favorable comparisons to Musang King.
Promoted for export under the catchy moniker “MARDI Super 88,” this hybrid is seen as a potential game-changer. “Our hybrids, especially MDUR 88, possess the quality needed to compete internationally,” said MARDI representatives.
In recent years, Malaysia’s durian production has surged, with expectations to reach nearly 570,000 tons this year, up from 390,635 tons in 2020. Currently, the nation has around 92,000 hectares devoted to the fruit, a significant increase from 70,000 in 2019.
As the industry continues to expand, 2023 marks a pivotal year with Malaysia exporting 54,374 tons of durians worth RM1.51 billion (US$357 million), with China accounting for nearly half of this export volume. A notable milestone involved securing permission from Beijing to export fresh durians, a leap from the previous limitations of frozen shipments.
Tan Sue Yee, CEO of Malaysian exporter Top Fruits, emphasizes the company’s shifting focus toward more premium varieties like D198, Golden Phoenix, and IOI. “Finding the right variety and the correct quantity is crucial for our export goals,” he stated, highlighting the balance between quality and demand.
Adviser Lim Chin Khee from the Durian Academy applauds Malaysia’s pivot toward premium markets, asserting that the country is strategically leveraging its strengths. “Targeting high-end durians is the ideal path forward for us,” he remarked. “Indeed, charging more for superior quality is a wise move.”
What premium durian varieties is Malaysia focusing on for export?
Malaysia is highlighting lesser-known cultivars such as Black Thorn, Red Prawn, and Hajah Hasmah, which are being evaluated for their export potential.
How has durian production changed in Malaysia in recent years?
Durian production in Malaysia is expected to rise to nearly 570,000 tons this year, up from 390,635 tons in 2020, reflecting a growing industry.
What new market opportunities are being explored for Malaysian durians?
Malaysia is looking to expand its durian exports to new markets such as the U.K., Canada, the UAE, Australia, and the Netherlands, in addition to strengthening its ties with existing markets.
