VNExpress/Star/Bernama/SouthChinaMorningPost-July 11
From durian tours to all-you-can-eat buffets, Singaporeans have been flocking to Malaysia to feast on the king of fruits during its peak season. In Johor state, durian sellers say business has surged since the start of the season earlier this month, especially on weekends, with many customers coming from across the border. John Chew, 60, who runs a stall near a local mall, told The Star that Singaporeans now make up about half of his customer base, adding that they prefer the Musang King variety. Another seller, Mohamad Amirudin Tono, 22, also saw strong sales, fueled by both local and Singaporean visitors. A supplier known only as Tok said demand has soared so much that he sometimes has to buy from other sources to keep up. Similarly, early last month when the season started in Penang, which is famous for its durians, an influx of visitors, including from the city-state, crowded hotels and caused traffic jams in the state.The recent wave of visitors from Singapore is a familiar post-poll tradition that often follows the city-state’s general election, which was held two months ago, according to tourism operators. Jimmy Leong, chairman of the Johor Tourist Guides Association, said: “It is usual for Singaporeans to go on durian tours every year, but the number of groups goes up by about 30% after an election in the island republic.” He explained that these outings are a popular way for Singaporean Members of Parliament (MPs) to thank constituents and party members for their support at the polls.This month, at least seven MPs have hosted trips for Singaporeans to enjoy durians in Malaysia, where the fruit’s prices are expected to fall as the harvest season peaks, the South China Morning Post reported. Read more at:
