GEORGE TOWN: The prized bittersweet Black Thorn durian, known as Orh Chi in Hokkien, originated in a modest orchard in Lima Kongsi near Sungai Jawi nearly four decades ago.
It was there that Datuk Leow Cheok Kiang, 65, grafted a hybrid between a local durian tree and an unidentified Thai variety on his father’s land – an innovation that earned him a datukship yesterday.
“It took almost 30 years for the trees to produce quality fruits,” he said.
In 2011, Leow submitted his Black Thorn durian to Penang’s Annual Fruit Competition, in which it secured second place.
The following three years, it won first prize, gaining international recognition and was eventually registered as D200 with the Agriculture Department in 2014.
Today, Black Thorn rivals Musang King in prestige, with demand growing in China, Indonesia and other export markets.
In recognition of his contribution to agriculture, Leow was awarded the Darjah Setia Pangkuan Negeri, which carries the title Datuk, during the 84th birthday celebration of Yang di-Pertua Negeri Tun Ramli Ngah Talib at Dewan Sri Pinang yesterday.
Leow, who now manages orchards in Sungai Baung, Junjung and Relau in Seberang Perai, was joined by his family at the ceremony.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow and former Jawi assemblyman Soon Lip Chee praised him as a symbol of innovation and perseverance in farming.
The ceremony also saw Trade and Industry Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz receiving the Darjah Panglima Pangkuan Negeri, which carries the Datuk Seri title.
Tengku Zafrul thanked Penang for the honour and gave his assurance that the ministry would continue working to position the state as an investment and commercial hub.
“I’m thankful to the Penang government for this award and am glad to have brought pride to Penang,” he said.
This year, 1,530 people received state honours, medals and awards.
From that group, 150 were presented state titles while 1,380 were conferred the Stars and Medals of Honour.
