The premium variety, dubbed “the aristocrat of durians,” is commanding prices of up to RM130 (US$30.25) per kilogram, as reported by Malaysian national news agency Bernama.
Eric Yeap, a durian grower with seven orchards spanning 53.4 hectares in Penang, noted that the variety only started gaining recognition among local and international durian fans over the last two years despite having been around for five or six years.
“Fans from Singapore and China now actively seek out Tupai King, with some even contacting me directly once the durian season begins,” Yeap said. “Some buyers fly in just to taste it at the source.”
Penang, a major durian-producing region, is home to numerous durian orchards producing some of the finest varieties, including Black Thorn, Musang King, and Ang Heh (Red Prawn).
Tupai King stands out for its slim, egg-shaped appearance. It is opened from the top, unlike other types that are usually opened from the bottom, according to CNA.
Its flesh is greenish with a blue-black hue and appears slightly bruised, even when freshly opened. Flavor-wise, it leans more bitter and less sweet than Musang King, with a hint of alcohol in its taste.
Although demand is surging, supply remains limited, as farmers only began cultivating the variety in recent years.
This is because there are still few mature trees that can yield fruit, explained durian specialist Chew Chee Wan, who cultivates the original Tupai King in Penang and holds the official certificate registering the variety’s name.
He began promoting the variety and selling its saplings only in 2022. He also shared seedlings with a handful of fellow farmers, but none have borne fruit yet.
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A Tupai King durian. Photo from Cap Tupai durian shop’s Facebook |
Yeap estimates it will take another three to four years before Tupai King can be produced at a commercial scale as farmers across Malaysia start planting this premium variety.
“It’s a long-term investment, but the payoff looks promising,” he said.
But shifting climate conditions may bring new challenges, with recent bouts of heavier-than-usual rainfall already affecting farmers in Penang.
According to Malay Mail, the unpredictable weather has disrupted flower blooming and could slash durian yields by up to 30% this season.
“The season also started late this year as usually the season starts in late April but we are only starting to get the early batches of durians now,” Yeap said, adding that lower supply may drive up prices.
Still, he believes Penang durians will remain worth the premium for their distinctive taste and quality.
“You’re not just buying fruit; you’re buying an experience,” he said.
