5,000 kg of durian sold in 5 hours at Malaysia’s first major durian festival

Durian for sale. Illustration photo by Unsplash

The Star reported that Fuziah Salleh, Malaysia’s Deputy Minister of Domestic Trade and Costs of Living, commended the event held on Saturday for making the popular fruit more affordable amid economic challenges. She pointed out the benefits for both traders and consumers.

"The people can enjoy fresh produce directly from plantations at a lower price," she remarked, noting that premium Musang King durians were available for as little as 9.99 ringgit (US$2.25) per kg.

Yahoo! Life notes that Musang King typically sells for at least 20 ringgit per kg at local Malaysian stalls.

"This initiative not only lessens the burden on the people but also allows them to enjoy local fruits while the government addresses the rising living cost," she added.

She encouraged other outlets to hold similar events to make quality products more accessible at lower prices.

Loke Kah Peng, founder of exporter and retailer Agro Best Services, mentioned that the fruits were sourced from three local plantations in Raub. He emphasized that the collaboration was well-timed with the upcoming National Day of Malaysia on Aug. 31 and aimed to help people reduce their daily expenses.

Joseph Teoh, Chief Marketing Officer of Jaya Grocer, was pleased with the turnout and sales, suggesting future expansion of the initiative.

"We are delighted with the response and are looking into making these durian feasts a regular event across Malaysia," he stated.