MELAKA: Popular Chinese actress Fan Bingbing has driven a wave of enthusiasm among tourists from the Middle Kingdom to savour the luscious taste of the King of Fruits, says Kota Laksamana assemblyman Low Chee Leong.
He said he was invited to interview the Chinese tourists enjoying the flavour and texture of the fruit at a stall along Jalan Tun Perak in Bachang here.
“The stall owner wanted me to see the number of Chinese tourists patronising his roadside stall following the spike in durian frenzy after the promotion by Fan.
“We have seen a steep increase of tourists from China over the past few weeks and many have said that they wanted to taste the same durian that the Chinese diva uploaded on her social media page while visiting here in June,” he said yesterday.
Fan was made the Visit Melaka 2024 (TMM2024) ambassador by Chief Minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh, in June.
Low said there was an unexpected increase in arrival of Chinese tourists here during their summer holidays which starts from July 1 and ends on Aug 31.
Savouring the popular Musang King and Black Thorn topped the tour itinerary for durian lovers from the country.
Low said the Chinese tourists also told him that the prices of durian was more affordable here compared to China and they were offered a distinct durian-eating experience with the availability of different varieties here.
“Furthermore, these tourists can enjoy the freshest durians while holidaying here as well as tasting different types of local fruits,” he said.
Low said tour companies were also offering unique experiences to the Chinese tourists as they include eating fresh durians as part of their holiday package while visiting other tourist destinations.
“Tour guides shared that they received positive feedback from Chinese tourists who get to taste the durians while touring the historic city,” he added.
Meanwhile, Edwin Teo, the owner of ZJY Fruit Trading at Jalan Tun Perak here, said he was able to offer cheaper and quality durians as the fruits were from his orchards.
“My partner and I have orchards in Raub in Pahang, Tangkak in Johor and Tehel here,” he said.
Teo said Chinese tourists were either brought to his stall by tour guides or took ehailing services after seeing the viral videos of his stall.
“It’s good that I can play my role as a Melakan to help make TMM2024 a success,” he said.
