Photo courtesy of Durian and Kopi Fest 2023 organisers.
KOTA KINABALU: Durian and coffee lovers can now make plans to head to Keningau this September for the Durian and Kopi Fest 2023.
More than 60 booths are expected at the fest, organised by Fazbuzz Events and Media, in collaboration with the Sabah Durian and Tropical Fruit Planters Association.
The event is backed by the state Agriculture, Fisheries and Food Industry Ministry.
It is scheduled to take place at Padang Bandaran Keningau on Sept 9 and 10, according to the organisers in a statement here on Tuesday (Aug 1).
"Offering a celebration of two beloved Malaysian delights in one exciting event, the festival is surrounded by the natural beauty of the agrotourism hub of Tenom, Keningau, and Tambunan where attendees will find themselves immersed in a vibrant and lively atmosphere.
"Having received the approval from the Ministry and supported by its Minister Datuk Seri Dr Jeffrey Kitingan, who is also Keningau MP, the event aims at highlighting the culinary treasures of Sabah and creating a unique experience for both locals and tourists.
"We invite everyone to savour the diverse tastes of durian and kopi while supporting local agri-businesses and experiencing the richness of Sabah's culture," said Fazbuzz Events and Media event director Fazura Azima Ag Sha.
The festival is expected to feature durian and coffee tastings from various vendors, showcasing a diverse selection of durian cultivars and coffee blends.
Visitors could also participate in educational workshops on the cultivation and production processes of these iconic products, allowing locals and tourists to delve deeper into the rich heritage of the Sabah interior regions.
"Beyond indulging in the culinary delights, festival-goers will have the opportunity to support and empower local agri-businesses,” said Sabah Durian and Tropical Fruit Planters Association president Duane Evans.
"The event's extensive line-up of booths will provide a platform for farmers, agriculture owners, and agri-entrepreneurs to gain exposure and recognition for their high-quality produce, especially tropical fruits.
"Through direct interactions with the producers, attendees can learn about the agricultural practices that make Sabah a thriving agrotourism hub," said Evans.
For more information, the public can visit the official social media accounts on Durian Kopi Fest 23 (Facebook), Fazzbuzzm (Instagram and TikTok) or contact the event organisers at 013-803 4232 (Fern) and 013-272 7900 (Michelle).
