By Zaki Salleh
KUALA KANGSAR: The durian breed, the MDUR88 variety, developed by researchers from the Malaysian Agricultural Research and Development Institute (MARDI), has been rebranded as Super (MS88).
This move is a strategic step to empower the local durian industry.
The announcement was made during a visit by the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu, to the Duriotourism Agro-Tourism farm in Kuala Kangsar recently.
The MDUR88 variety was introduced in 1992 through a cross-breeding of the D10 and D24 parent strains and was cultivated in Kuala Kangsar.
The flesh quality of MDUR88 durian is among the best, and it is considered a competitor to the quality of the king of turmeric.
Meanwhile, in his statement, Mohamad Sabu also informed that the ministry and MARDI are encouraging farmers to plant MS88, including by providing free seedlings.
This move is expected to help stabilise production and meet the growing market demand, especially globally.
“To date, 8,000 MS88 durian trees have been planted across the country to meet the export market demand, particularly to China.
“Since 2021, MARDI has been providing free MS88 seedlings to interested farmers, as well as offering guidance and encouragement to expand durian cultivation,” he said.
The MS88 durian has several advantages, including a sweet, creamy taste with thick flesh.
Its fruit quality also cracks slowly, making it easier to store and maintain its flesh quality for a longer period.
