By Zaki Salleh
KUALA KANGSAR: The Malaysian Agricultural Research and Development Institute (MARDI) is currently evaluating a new durian variety that is expected to be introduced to the market once sufficient planting materials are available.
The new variety is being developed to meet consumer preferences and demands while strengthening Malaysia’s local durian industry.
MARDI Director-General, Dato’ Dr Mohamad Zabawi Abdul Ghani, said the new durian variety would only be introduced after meeting all required standards and evaluation processes.
He said three existing varieties currently cultivated by MARDI are already popular among durian enthusiasts, namely the Mardi Super 88 (MS88) hybrid, MDUR 79 and MDUR 78.
Among them, MS88 has attracted particular attention for its rich, bitter-sweet flavour, creamy texture, thick flesh and sweetness comparable to the renowned Musang King variety.
“Since 2021, a total of 25,000 MS88 trees have been planted across approximately 600 acres nationwide.
“These trees were planted by growers using free seedlings supplied by MARDI, along with technical assistance from the institute.
“MS88, which was introduced during the 12th Malaysia Plan (12MP), has now matured and has begun producing fruit,” he said.
He was speaking to reporters during the MARDI Duriotourism Programme at the MARDI Kuala Kangsar Agrotechnology Park.
The MARDI Kuala Kangsar Agrotechnology Park serves as a key research facility for Malaysia’s “King of Fruits”, focusing on the development of high-quality durian varieties.
Mohamad Zabawi added that MARDI has also developed technology capable of preserving the freshness of durians for up to six months through a specialised process, which is already being adopted by several companies.
This, he said, supports MARDI’s efforts to increase exports of fresh durians to China rather than relying solely on frozen durian exports.
“This year’s durian season has recorded a higher yield compared with last year, largely due to more favourable weather conditions for fruit production.
“Weather remains the key factor influencing both the quality and yield of durians.
“Hot daytime temperatures combined with cooler nights contribute to the production of better-quality fruit,” he said.
On the MARDI Kuala Kangsar Agrotechnology Park, Mohamad Zabawi said the institute continues to expand organic farming practices to other crops.
This includes upgrading irrigation systems and replacing dead trees within the project area.
A one-stop urban agriculture centre will also be established to help local communities expand their agricultural activities.
