Farmer enjoys watching World Cup, eating durians together
PETALING JAYA: The World Cup may be entering its final chapter, but for durian lovers, the season for enjoying the King of Fruits is still in full swing.
For durian farmer Md Fadzir Mohd Lajim, 60, this year’s tournament has brought an extra reason to celebrate, as football excitement and the durian season coincided to create precious family moments.
With fruit from his own orchard and late-night matches to look forward to, he said the combination made this World Cup one to remember.
“It is not often that the World Cup and durian season happen at the same time. This year has been special because we can enjoy both together. It’s a great feeling to gather with family members, eat durian and watch football,” he said.
The Argentina supporter was especially delighted after his team booked their place in the final following a dramatic 2-1 semi-final victory over England.
Md Fadzir said the match was a true test of character for both sides.
“Enzo Fernandez’s goal changed the momentum, while Lautaro Martinez’s late header was a special moment for Argentina supporters,” he said, adding that the atmosphere felt entirely different to the tournament’s previous edition.
“The previous World Cup was not as lively. This time, the durian season has been very good, so families have more reasons to gather and enjoy the matches together.”
These late-night football gatherings have transformed the family dynamic.
His wife Norapidah Ismail, 52, said she had become used to giving her husband space to enjoy football whenever major tournaments arrived.
Although the housewife is not a football fan, she enjoyed seeing the family unite for the occasion.
“I do not really understand football but I like seeing everyone gather and spend time together,” Norapidah said.
“During the World Cup, we usually watch the matches at my third daughter Siti Aisyah’s house. She got married in May and her house is less than 10km away.”
Norapidah added that durian was always the main attraction during these viewings, with the family frequently preparing durian-based desserts.
For their daughter, 26-year-old Siti Aisyah, the bumper harvest has provided a welcome financial bonus.
The recent graduate, who aspires to be a teacher, noted that the excellent season allowed them to enjoy premium varieties at more reasonable prices.
“Besides eating durians from our own orchard, lower prices allow us to try varieties such as Musang King,” she said.
While the World Cup only arrives once every four years, Siti Aisyah noted that the annual durian season remains the ultimate tradition for bringing the family closer.
“It is enjoyable spending time together,” she added.
