November 10, 2025
PETALING JAYA – For generations, it’s known as the “King of Fruits”, yet it has never officially been crowned as the national fruit of Malaysia.
It is unlike the hibiscus, which is the undisputed national flower of Malaysia. Or the tigers, which are seen majestically on Malaysia’s coat of arms.
That could soon change.
The Durian Manufacturer Association (DMA), which serves as a communication bridge between the government and durian producers, has formally asked the Agriculture and Food Security Ministry to give the thorny delight its rightful place as the national fruit of the country.
And they want July 7 to be declared as National Durian Day.
“Durian is not just another fruit. It’s part of our national identity,” said DMA president Eric Chan.
“Every Malaysian, no matter their background, has a durian story – a memory, a tradition. It’s the one thing that unites us all.”
From stalls at morning markets to crates destined for international markets, Malaysian durians have made their mark far beyond the country.
Premium varieties such as Musang King (D197), Black Thorn (D200) and D24 have become global sensations, putting Malaysia on the map as the home of world-class durians.
The Geographical Indication (GI) status, which is issued by the Intellectual Property Corporation of Malaysia (MyIPO), has recently been extended by another 10 years to March 2034.
This affirmed its status as a protected national product, preventing other countries from claiming or using the name.
“The GI renewal is like a passport stamp for the Musang King,” Chan said.
“It proves it’s truly Malaysian. It’s something we can all be proud of, and it shows that our farmers and producers have built a global brand from local roots.”
The durian story is also about the livelihood of durian farmers and the related industries.
“The industry contributes millions of ringgit to Malaysia’s agricultural exports and supports thousands of farmers, smallholders, and downstream producers,” he said.
To him, the status of durian as the national fruit could also give a boost to innovation, research and agro-tourism.
Malaysian entrepreneurs are already experimenting with new ways to enjoy durian, from frozen pulp to coffee, pastries and even confectionery.
“This isn’t just a fruit. It’s pride and passion,” he said.
The proposal for National Durian Day will coincide with the peak of the durian season.
As such, Chan envisioned festivals, farm visits, exhibitions and events that celebrate both the fruit and the people behind it.
“It would be a day for everyone – from orchard workers to durian lovers – to celebrate what makes our durian special. And, of course, to indulge a little too,” he said.
Agriculture Department director-general Datuk Nor Sam Alwi confirmed that the department had received a formal application from the DMA, submitted through the Agriculture and Food Security Ministry on Sept 8.
She said that any decision to name a fruit as the national fruit will require a comprehensive study and thorough consideration by various government agencies.
“Factors such as socio-economic impact, export value, cultural heritage, public acceptance and the fruit’s importance to the national agricultural industry will all be taken into account.
“The ministry is currently reviewing this matter together with relevant departments and agencies to ensure any decision is made prudently and holistically,” she told The Star.
At present, she said there is no official government declaration designating durian as the national fruit, nor has July been formally proclaimed as National Durian Day.
“Should the proposal be endorsed in the future, any announcement will be made by the ministry following formal government approval,” she added.