Many parts of Malaysia are currently undergoing prolonged hot weather which has caused many issues, including increased risks of heat stroke.
The heat wave is also causing problems for durian plantations too, as the hot weather has caused lower production and demand for the king of fruits.
This is the issue currently faced by a Durian farmer in Balik Pulau, Penang as he is currently seeing a 30% lower harvest for durian compared to last year.
As reported by BERNAMA, Yeap Gaun Fong, the owner of 8321 Durian Plantation asserted that the hot weather is affecting the harvesting of the king of fruits.
He shared, “When the trees were flowering, there were clusters of flower buds, but the hot weather caused these flower buds to drop.”
“The hot weather is the main reason why people eat less durians. Many visitors but they only bought one or two fruits… They said that the weather was too hot to consume many durians.”
Furthermore, Yeap, who owns 6 durian plantations in Penang added that prices of durians have dropped about 50% this season compared to last year.
He elaborated that he recently sold Musang King durians grade A for RM50/kg compared to RM75/kg just two weeks ago
Moreover, Udang Merah durians were sold at RM35/kg compared to RM50/kg previously and durian kampung at RM10/kg compared to RM20/kg prior to this.
However, Yeap said that it is too early to know whether the durian season will bring in profit or loss this year as it just started 3 weeks ago.
This is because the weather could change in the near future and there could be an increased demand during school holidays.
So, what do you guys think of the hot weather causing people to eat less durians? Share your thoughts with us in the comments!
Also read: PJ Restaurant Introduces Durian Ramen, Receives Divided Opinions From Netizens
