Indonesia opposes Malaysia’s durian bid, citing 2mil tonnes annual production and deeper historical species ties
MALAYSIA’S bid to declare durian as the country’s national fruit has sparked a strong reaction across the border, with Indonesia asserting that it has far deeper historical and cultural ties to the thorny delicacy.
Indonesia’s Coordinating Minister for Food Affairs, Zulkifli Hasan (Zulhas), dismissed Malaysia’s proposal, arguing that Indonesia’s claim over the fruit is far more substantial.
“Indonesia produced nearly two million tonnes of durian in 2024 according to Statistics Indonesia (BPS).
“This figure is far above Malaysia. With this fact, I believe Durian should be Indonesia’s National Fruit,” Zulhas told CNBC Indonesia in a statement.
He cited BPS 2024 data showing Indonesia’s durian production reached 1.96 million tonnes, the highest in the last five years. The biggest production came from major durian-growing regions in Java, Sumatra, Kalimantan, and Sulawesi.
Meanwhile, he added, various regional reports show Malaysia’s production is much lower, although its value has risen thanks to exports of premium varieties such as Musang King.
“Durian is not just a commodity; it is part of our culture and a source of livelihood for millions of farmers,” he said.
“When talking about a national symbol, it must be based on data and reality. Nusantara Durian is our strength in Asia. According to BRIN data, Indonesia has 21 of the 27 durian species known in the world, and up to 2024 around 114 new superior varieties have been registered,” Zulhas added.
To strengthen Indonesia’s position, the government will promote “Nusantara Durian” branding, improve production standards, and expand the potential for exporting processed durian products to global markets.
For context, Malaysia is currently discussing the idea of officially recognising durian as the country’s national fruit.
According to The Straits Times, the Durian Manufacturers Association (DMA) has formally submitted a proposal to the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security.
The DMA is also asking for July 7 to be designated as National Durian Day.
“Durian is not just an ordinary fruit. It is part of our national identity,” said DMA president Eric Chan, as quoted by The Straits Times.
