The debate over whether durian should be Malaysia's national fruit has drawn reactions from Indonesia, where officials say the crop has a stronger presence and larger production base.
Indonesian Coordinating Minister for Food Affairs Zulkifli Hasan said the proposal does not align with regional production data. "Indonesia produced almost 2 million tons of durian in 2024. That is far above Malaysia. With this fact, I believe durian is Indonesia's national fruit," he said, as reported by CNBC Indonesia. He referred to BPS statistics showing Indonesia's 2024 output at 1.96 million tons, with production centered in Java, Sumatra, Kalimantan, and Sulawesi. He added that Malaysia's production is lower, although export value has increased due to premium varieties such as Musang King.
In Malaysia, the Durian Manufacturers Association submitted a request on November 10 for the agriculture and food security ministry to recognise durian as the national fruit and to declare July 7 as National Durian Day. The Musang King geographical indication, managed by the Intellectual Property Corporation of Malaysia, was recently renewed until March 2034.
Agriculture Department director general Nor Sam Alwi confirmed that the department received the application on September 8. She said no official decision has been made regarding the national fruit status or the proposed national day.
DMA president Eric Chan said the proposal focuses on Malaysia's connection to the crop. "Durian has long been an integral part of Malaysia's cultural heritage, agricultural landscape, and global identity. Our proposal celebrates a fruit that has shaped our communities, supported our farmers, and contributed significantly to our agri export economy." He highlighted Malaysia's global profile for Musang King and Black Thorn. "Formalising the durian as our national fruit will strengthen branding, improve farmer livelihoods and enhance Malaysia's position globally," he said.
Chan also acknowledged Indonesia's production scale and stated that the proposal is not intended to dispute Indonesia's role. "Both Malaysia and Indonesia share deep cultural and historical ties with durian; it thrives across our region. Making it Malaysia's national fruit does not diminish Indonesia's right to do the same. We want to highlight Malaysia's strengths and encourage regional cooperation, especially since Southeast Asia is the heartland of durian." He added that national symbols are selected for cultural and historical relevance and noted Malaysia's established reputation for premium durian varieties.
The discussion continues as the two countries outline their respective roles in the regional durian industry.
Source: myNews
