July 09, 2025 | The Straits Times |
After Singapore’s general election, durian tours from Singapore to Johor have surged, boosting local durian businesses. According to Jimmy Leong, chairman of the Johor Tourist Guides Association, such post-election trips, often organized by Singapore MPs as a thank-you gesture, typically increase group tour numbers by 30%. Each group can include up to 10 busloads of participants. Popular offerings like the “Musang King durian tour” feature all-you-can-eat sessions and full meals.
Durian sellers in Johor confirm a significant rise in business, particularly over weekends, with Singaporeans making up about half of their customers. Musang King remains a favorite, with grade A durians selling for RM60/kg and grade B for RM30–RM40/kg. Falling durian prices this season have further drawn in crowds.
Suppliers report strong demand, sometimes exceeding supply, with customers even visiting orchards directly via tour buses. Visitors, like Singaporean Wendy Chua, value the experience and variety not easily found in Singapore.
Overall, durian tourism continues to thrive in Johor, driven by affordable prices, product diversity, and cross-border demand, especially following political events in Singapore. The influx highlights the strong cultural and culinary ties between the two countries.
