China embraces SEA’s thorny delight

A Chinese tourist enjoying durian at the Esplanade in Penang.

As the king of fruits finds an increasingly bigger following in China, durian lovers in Malaysia and Singapore find prices spiking and supplies at home dwindling, reports PAULINE D. LOH.

TO understand China, sit down and eat with them. Food is the indestructible bond that holds the social fabric together. It is also one of the last strong bonds of community and culture.