November 24, 2025 | 10:41 am
TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Coordinating Minister for the Food Zulkifli Hasan, also known as Zulhas, stated that the diversity of durian types in Indonesia is evidence that the fruit is the national fruit of Indonesia.
"With such richness, it is evident that durian is a truly Indonesian fruit and should rightfully be our national fruit, not Malaysia's," said Zulkifli in a written statement on Sunday, November 23, 2025.
According to Zulhas, almost every region has high durian production with different taste characteristics.
Zulhas argues that the diversity of durian not only showcases Indonesia's biodiversity but also strengthens Indonesia's position as the country with the largest number of durian varieties in the world.
The National Mandate Party politician stated that the variety's strength, large production, and high-quality taste are evidence of durian as the national fruit.
Reported by The Straits Times, the Durian Manufacturers Association (DMA) has requested the Malaysian government to declare the spiky fruit as Malaysia's national fruit and to designate July 7 as National Durian Day.
The association, which serves as a communication bridge between the government and durian producers, has officially requested the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security to provide the appropriate recognition for durian as the national fruit. "Durian is not just an ordinary fruit. It is part of our national identity," said DMA President Eric Chan.
This request was confirmed by Nor Sam Alwi, the Director General of the Department of Agriculture, who mentioned that the decision requires a comprehensive study across institutions, covering socio-economic impact, export value, cultural heritage, public acceptance, and industrial interests.
DMA President Eric Chan emphasizes the extension of Geographical Indication (GI) status for musang king (D197) until March 2034, thereby reinforcing the claim of origin and preventing external parties from using the name. "The extension of the GI is like a passport that proves Musang King truly belongs to Malaysia," he said.
Yunia Pratiwi contributed to this article
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