In this 2011 Christmas season, all Malaysians are once again greeted by the unique aroma released by the King Of Fruits - The Durian.
Yes, we are once again into the durian season where what smells like a gas leak turns out to be God's gift to our taste buds, and where we discover newer and newer durian species with names ever so puzzling and amusing.
Nevertheless, there is no denying the popularity of durians. Today, this King of Fruits is enjoying a growing popularity and demand around the world which will only mean one thing - be prepared to pay higher and higher prices for this fruit in the future as we compete against importing countries demanding this delicious local produce.
When it comes to quality durians, Bentong is one of the places where you can expect to find them. So far, I only had the chance to taste the 'Musang King' and D24 species which I bought from nearby Bukit Tinggi Village and to sum it up - Good Price, Great Taste! I got my D24s from a restaurant owner who sells only a few durians at a time in front of his shop and he only sells durians which he thinks are good and ready to be consumed. Must be a real durian expert.
Apart from the opportunity to savour delicious foods offered by the countless restaurants in Bukit Tinggi Village, I now look forward to FRESH, QUALITY DURIANS at reasonable prices in every coming durian season.
In this same time, I was also invited by a friend to visit his relative's 2-acre fruit orchard in Bukit Tinggi and guess what I saw ? Ta daaaaa . . . . .
Since that day, I have decided to plant a durian tree near my house in Genting Tiara. Of course, the tree must be a distance away from the house to avoid potential damage caused by the tree's deep, long roots but still be within the compound of the house so that I may lay claim to that tree and its produce. It will most likely be a 'Musang King' specie since its price is so absurdly high. Unfortunately, I will have to wait 5 - 6 years for the tree to mature and bear fruit. Well, I guess I just have to tell myself that those who have patience shall be highly rewarded.
In the meantime . . .
"WISHING ALL A WONDERFUL MERRY CHRISTMAS AND A HAPPY NEW YEAR!"
