Climate change squeezing Malaysian durian growers
August 25, 2026 | The Star |
Malaysia’s durian growers are facing rising production costs and unstable yields as climate change brings more frequent heat, heavy rainfall, floods, and pest problems. These pressures come as expanding cultivation and maturing orchards have increased domestic supply, contributing to falling prices. Grade A Musang King prices at one Pahang orchard fell to about half their level a year earlier.
Malaysia’s durian cultivation area reached 92,100 hectares in 2024, nearly 40% higher than in 2016, while production increased almost 90% to 568,800 tonnes. Growing Chinese demand has supported this expansion, particularly after China began accepting frozen Malaysian durians in 2019 and fresh fruit in 2024. However, Malaysia still trails Thailand and Vietnam in exports to China.
Growers are adapting to changing conditions through improved water management, relocating orchards to cooler areas, and using sensors to monitor rainfall, humidity, wind, and soil conditions. These technologies allow farmers to respond earlier to weather and pest risks and better manage fruit quality. Industry experts emphasize that preparation and climate adaptation will become increasingly important for maintaining the quality and profitability of premium Malaysian durians.
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August 25, 2026 | The Star | Malaysia’s durian growers are facing rising production costs and unstable yields as climate change brings more frequent heat, heavy rainfall, floods, and pest problems. Th
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