LABUAN: Although durian lovers in many places in Sabah, Sarawak and peninsula have been able to enjoy the fruit at cheaper prices due to a glut, it is not the case on this Federal Territory island.
Labuan Chinese Chamber Chairman Datuk Wong Kii Yii said it is ironic that durians are abundant in Sabah but not Labuan despite the proximity.
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“Durian lovers here may not mind paying slightly more for a Black Thorn, Musang King, D24 or Red Prawn because they seldom have the chance to enjoy them,” he said.
Wong added that since durians were perishable if not preserved correctly, agencies like the Federal Agriculture Marketing Authority (Fama) should have a mechanism in place for the fast-packed distribution of durians to areas eagerly wanting them.
Wong said Fama’s willingness to absorb the surplus durians to produce value-added items is a good idea but swift distribution nation-wide is an alternative solution .
“Quick action will spare the durian dealers from staring into a gloomy year of business,” said Wong.
He said the RM100 Sara cash being credited by the Madani government would leave many extra cash to enjoy their favourite fruit if easily available in their district.
He said the plight of durain growers deserved strong attention as Malaysia exported thousands of tons premium grade durians bringing home foreign exchange.
Going by reports the durian glut this time was a severe one with many selling “A” class durians for as low RM10 to RM15 instead of going to waste. Some orchards offered “happy hour” prices as low as RM30 where anyone could consume without limit.
“Retailing in Labuan or other durian-starved town could fetch better prices and to some extent ease the woes of those in business,” said Wong.
Durian lover James Simon concurred with the views of the chamber and suggested 1,000kg be despatched to Labuan to “ test” the market.
He said normally durians were sold from vans or other vehicles loaded with durian and stocks would be sold within hours.
