JITRA: Durian trader Muhammad Azizi Azizan, 34, never imagined the two tonnes of durian kampung he has been selling daily since Friday would sell out within an hour.
Azizi said this year's sales had been exceptional, thanks to the rare phenomenon of the durian variant from Perak yielding fruit twice instead of the usual once a year.
"I source the durian from suppliers in Batu Kurau and Bukit Gantang, Perak. Almost every day, I travel there to collect fresh stock.
"I sell them at prices as low as RM5, RM6, RM10, and RM15 per kg, depending on the grade, and the response since Friday has been beyond expectations.
"Two tonnes are sold here, and another tonne is sent to Langkawi daily due to high demand," he said at his stall in Kepala Batas town yesterday.
He added that fresh durian kampung arrived at his stall daily between 3pm and 4pm, with customers often waiting in advance to purchase newly delivered fruits.
"For durian priced at RM10 to RM15 per kg, we provide a satisfaction guarantee. If customers find damaged or poor-quality fruit, they can exchange it here for free.
"Our stall operates from 10am to 10pm daily, and we also serve 'pulut durian' and durian-flavoured cendol for customers to enjoy on-site.
"For tomorrow's Christmas celebration, many have already placed orders, including those planning to dine here due to the public and school holidays."
Azizi said his stall attracted customers daily, including those travelling from afar such as Kuala Nerang, Alor Star and Perlis.
"Some customers wait up to an hour at the stall for the next delivery to handpick their durian.
"I don't mind if customers voice dissatisfaction with their purchases, as the availability and quality depend on the supply received each day," he said.
Azizi added that the durian sale would continue until February next year, ahead of Ramadan, with plans to resume sales after Hari Raya Aidilfitri.