BALIK PULAU: As Penang residents retreat indoors to escape the heat, durian trees here are doing the opposite, bursting into bloom under weeks of dry, scorching weather. Orchard owner Tan Chee Keat, 35, said about 20% of his trees had begun fruiting much earlier than usual. Tan said the prolonged dry spell had created favourable conditions for flowering, although growers were working to manage stress on the trees. He said dry weather reduced fungal problems during flowering, which could improve fruit quality. We just need the dry weather to stay stable now and durian lovers will have a good time in two or three months,” Tang said.

Source: The Star March 23, 2026 00:45 UTC