Holiday Ayo - A producer association has proposed that the Malaysian government declare durian as the national fruit.

This proposal was submitted by the Durian Manufacturer Association (DMA) through the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security on September 8.

Durian has long been known as the "king of all fruits" and has become a source of pride for Malaysia on the international stage.

However, unlike the hibiscus, which has been recognized as the national flower, or the tiger featured on the national emblem, durian has never received such status.

DMA President Eric Chan stated that durian is not just an agricultural product, but part of the nation's identity.

"Durian is not just an ordinary fruit. It is part of our national identity," Chan said.

"Every Malaysian, regardless of background, has a story about durian—a memory, a tradition, or a moment that unites us all," he said.

The DMA also proposed that July 7 be designated National Durian Day, coinciding with the peak durian harvest season in Malaysia.

According to Chan, the day could be celebrated with festivals, farm visits, exhibitions, and activities involving durian farmers and enthusiasts across the country.

"This will be a day for everyone—from farm workers to durian connoisseurs—to celebrate what makes our durian so special," he added.

Government Response Responding to the proposal, the Director-General of the Malaysian Department of Agriculture, Nor Sam Alwi, confirmed that the government had received an official request from the DMA.

He emphasized that designating durian as the national fruit requires a comprehensive study.

"The decision to designate a fruit as the national fruit must be thoroughly considered by various government agencies," he explained to The Star.

Nor Sam explained that factors such as socio-economic impact, export value, cultural heritage, public acceptance, and the fruit's contribution to the national agricultural sector will be key considerations.

"Currently, the ministry is reviewing this proposal with relevant departments and agencies to ensure the decision is made carefully and comprehensively," he said.

He also emphasized that so far there has been no official declaration from the government designating durian as the national fruit, nor has there been any declaration of July as National Durian Day.

"If this proposal is approved in the future, an official announcement will be made by the ministry after receiving government approval," he added.