Nothing but the best: Wong packing durian for a customer at his stall in the Pulau Tikus market in George Town. — ZHAFARAN NASIB/The Star
GEORGE TOWN: Penang durians are back in season but typically, there’s only a limited stock to go round.
The year-end season is only a short one with fewer fruits dropping so sellers will only have small numbers to offer in local markets.
Penang’s main durian season begins in May each year and can last for up to three months.
Seller Patrick Wong in Pulau Tikus market is now offering six to 12 durians a day at his stall, which mainly sells tau kuah, noodles and other fresh produce.
“We have an orchard in Balik Pulau and during the May season, we can supply various stalls in Penang. But for December, there is not enough to supply to other shops.
“I bring my fruits daily to the market and sell them by the end of the day. If I compare it with our usual yield, this round will be around only 20% to 30% of it,” he said yesterday.
Wong, 38, said he has Musang King, Black Thorn, Green Skin, kampung ones and even one he called Kucing Tidur.
“I expect this season to last until Chinese New Year and then it will stop.
“I charge based on the market rates but some of the fruits like the Musang King (RM58 per kg) and Black Thorn (RM68 per kg) are smaller compared to their usual sizes.
“I do notice that people charge quite a bit as there are probably not as many fruits during this year-end season,” he said,
His customers, said Wong, are thrilled to see Penang durians for sale again and will usually stop at his stall to savour some of the fruits.
Another seller, who wished to be known as Tan, said he has a supplier from Balik Pulau.
“The yield has been good in the orchards and the fruits are tasty.
“I sell a few varieties but mostly Musang King and Black Thorn as they are the favourites.
“The fruits are pricier as there is not much competition but a few stalls are now open in Balik Pulau,” he added.
Tan said he is unsure when the season will end and did not expect it to last long.
“Soon, it will be time for the trees to flower for the May durian season.
“Come get your durian fix now or you will have to wait till May,” he said.
