PETALING JAYA: The Agriculture and Food Security Ministry is currently in talks with importing companies and the General Administration of Customs China (GACC) to market durian kampung to the republic, alongside premium varieties such as Musang King and Black Thorn.

Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu said the aim was to introduce durian kampung as a separate category, such as Category 2 so that its pricing can be more accessible when sold in local markets within the country.

The move, he said, was to support small-scale durian farmers.

"Currently, the proposal is in the intensive discussion phase, involving talks with importing companies, as well as GACC which oversees import and export regulations for China.

"The focus is on ensuring the fresh durian kampung reaches its destination in optimal condition," he told reporters after the launch ceremony of the National Farmers Organisation (Nafas) Organisational Anti-Corruption Strategy (OACS) 2024-2028, also known as Gentar today.

Present were Farmers' Organisation Authority chairman Datuk Mahfuz Omar and Nafas chairman Datuk Zamri Yaakob.

Mohamad said Malaysia's durian export value was projected to rise to RM1.8 billion by 2030.

National durian exports from 2018 to 2022 were encouraging and had increased by 256.3 per cent or RM822.8 million, and Malaysian durian exports globally hit RM1.14 billion - the highest ever - in 2022.

On Aug 24, Malaysia began exporting fresh durian to China, two months after signing the Protocol on Phytosanitary Requirements for the Export of Fresh Durian from Malaysia to the country.

The export of fresh durians to China became possible after the signing of the Protocol on Phytosanitary Requirements for the Export of Fresh durians from Malaysia to China.

The agreement was signed by Mohamad and the GACC Minister Yu Jianhua, in Putrajaya on June 19.

Meanwhile, Mohamad said integrity in combatting corruption is crucial because it fosters an environment of transparency, accountability, and ethical behaviour.

"Fighting corruption is not solely using the law, but integrity is more important. It's not just a matter of legal frameworks-laws can sometimes be circumvented, but integrity is something that individuals must uphold themselves. It's about self-discipline," he said.

On Gentar, he said it proves the commitment of the government and Nafas towards eliminating all forms of corruption at every level.

Mohamad said Gentar's five priority aspects, namely, administration, corporate governance, procurement, finance and operations, would be a guide for Nafas employees and could have a great impact on the delivery of services provided.

"The togetherness of all levels of Nafas is significant in efforts to improve the integrity in Nafas and the country."

https://www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2024/08/1097455/efforts-underway-expand-market-durian-kampung-china