Photo: FAIHAN GHANI/The Star
Farmers: Banana, papaya also worthy of national fruit title
PETALING JAYA: When Malaysia chooses its national fruit, it should not be all about durian as everyday favourites such as watermelon, banana, guava and papaya also deserve a slice of the spotlight, says the Federation of Malaysia Fruit Farmers Association.
These everyday fruits, says the association’s president Koh Lai Ann, are affordable, widely available and loved by Malaysians of all ages, while also supporting countless small- and medium-scale farmers across the country.
“These are not luxury fruits. They are among the easiest sources of vitamins and form a vital source of income for many farmers,” he said.
He added that any discussion about official fruits should not just focus on export stars like durian or pineapple; it must recognise the staples that ordinary households buy regularly.
The association proposes a multi-tier approach, in which export-oriented fruits such as durian, pineapple, jackfruit and papaya could be celebrated for branding and trade, while watermelon, banana, guava and papaya are spotlighted for their role in food security and mass consumption.
Koh said this broader approach would better reflect the true structure of Malaysia’s tropical fruit industry and prevent resources from being channelled to only one or two high-profile crops.
He also urged the government to pair symbolism with action through a “local fruits first” policy, particularly in public institutions such as schools, hospitals, military camps, government canteens, official events and state-linked companies.
“Local fruits are fresher, travel shorter distances and fit our eating habits.
“If ministries, agencies and even private companies consistently serve and buy local fruits, that will do far more for the sector than slogans alone,” he said when contacted.
Koh stressed that supporting local fruits ultimately advances three national goals – public health, food security and sustainable agriculture – and called for long-term support packages to accompany any future “official fruit” announcement.
Meanwhile, durian and pineapple continue to battle for the spotlight as Malaysia’s national fruit, with experts saying the government must weigh economic impact alongside cultural and tourism value.
Prof Datuk Dr Nasir Shamsudin of Putra Business School said the decision should consider production value, contribution to gross domestic product, export performance, per capita consumption, self-sufficiency and Malaysia’s comparative advantage, as well as national identity and cultural significance.
He said durian, especially premium varieties like Musang King, has become a global symbol of Malaysian agriculture.
“Its Geographical Indication status ensures that only durians grown under strict local guidelines, mainly in Pahang and Johor, can be marketed as Musang King, setting Malaysia apart from regional competitors,” he said.
In numbers, durian production in 2024 is valued at between RM1.2bil and RM1.5bil, with exports worth approximately RM1.18bil.
Pineapple production is about RM1.3bil, with exports totalling RM1.73bil, including both fresh and processed products such as juice and canned pineapple.
Nasir noted that pineapple currently holds an edge in overall export value due to its wider market reach and strong processed-product base, while durian continues to perform well in high-value markets such as China, driven by demand for premium varieties.
“Pineapple may have a short-term advantage in export value and diversification, but durian’s strength lies in its premium positioning and focused regional demand,” he added.
