Malaysian Embassy in Tehran Hosts “Durian Reception” to Promote the King of Fruits
TEHRAN (Iran News) Malaysia’s Ambassador to Iran, H.E. Khairi Omer, welcomed attendees with a warm speech that celebrated the Musang King durian as more than just a fruit but a symbol of Malaysia’s agricultural ingenuity and culinary excellence.
“Selamat Datang, Khosh Amadid, and welcome to an evening dedicated to a true treasure of Malaysia—the Musang King Durian. Tonight, we celebrate not just a fruit, but a legacy of innovation and excellence,” the ambassador remarked.
Known as the “King of Fruits,” the Musang King durian is renowned for its creamy texture, bittersweet flavor, and distinctive golden-yellow flesh. The event spotlighted its status as a premium export, with the ambassador emphasizing Malaysia’s commitment to promoting fresh, high-quality durian to international markets.
As part of his address, Ambassador Omer shared fascinating insights about the Musang King’s unique qualities and its journey from Malaysia’s orchards to tables worldwide.
The Musang King, or Raja Kunyit, is prized for its distinctive appearance, featuring a star-shaped base and pyramid-like spikes. Its mild, refined aroma makes it an accessible choice for both seasoned durian lovers and newcomers.With global markets like China referring to it as the “Hermes of Durians,” the fruit has become a symbol of prestige and luxury, commanding prices as high as $105 per piece.
The ambassador also highlighted Malaysia’s leadership in durian cultivation. Over 73,000 hectares of land are dedicated to durian farming, with Musang King accounting for 36% of total production. In 2022 alone, Malaysia exported RM1.14 billion worth of durian, with China contributing RM887 million to that figure.
In a significant milestone for Malaysia-China trade relations, the ambassador noted that Malaysia began exporting fresh, non-frozen durians to China in 2024. The inaugural shipment included 20 tonnes of premium varieties, signaling growing international demand for Malaysian durians.
The event also highlighted the durian’s versatility in cuisine. Guests sampled dishes and desserts made from Musang King durian, including ice cream, cakes, and even savory dishes like curries, showcasing the fruit’s adaptability and culinary appeal.
The reception served as an opportunity to delve into the Musang King’s cultural and scientific importance. First discovered in the 1980s in Gua Musang, Kelantan, the fruit was officially registered in Malaysia’s national crop registry as “D197” in 1993. Its reputation has since skyrocketed, solidifying its position as one of the world’s most sought-after durian varieties.
The event also touched on the scientific breakthroughs surrounding the durian. In 2017, researchers successfully sequenced the genome of the Musang King, unlocking insights into the genes responsible for its signature aroma and flavor.
As the evening concluded, Ambassador Omer reflected on the cultural and economic significance of the Musang King durian.
“This extraordinary fruit stands as a testament to Malaysia’s vibrant culture, our dedication to quality, and our warm hospitality. It is a bridge that connects tradition with innovation and brings people together across borders,” he said.
The “Durian Reception” was more than a celebration of a beloved fruit—it was a showcase of Malaysia’s agricultural excellence, a testament to its global outreach, and a reminder of the shared joy that food can bring.
With increasing demand and continued innovation in durian cultivation, Malaysia remains at the forefront of the global durian market. Events like the “Durian Reception” not only promote this iconic fruit but also strengthen international ties and foster appreciation for Malaysia’s unique contributions to global cuisine.
As guests left the reception, many carried with them not only the taste of the Musang King durian but also a deeper understanding of the stories and traditions it embodies—a true representation of Malaysia’s rich heritage and global vision.
