Singaporean MPs treat constituents to durian feasts in Malaysia

At least 7 Singaporean members of parliament (MPs) have organized durian tours to Malaysia this month to thank their constituents for their support in the recent election.

Opposition leader and Workers' Party chairman Pritam Singh treated his constituents to an all-you-can-eat durian buffet in Johor, Malaysia on 5/7.

The day trip from Singapore cost 75 USD and included the durian feast, free shopping, and a Chinese dinner.

People's Action Party (PAP) MP Ng Chee Meng hosted a durian tour to Malaysia on 5/7. Video: Facebook/FernvaleCC

On the same day, People's Action Party (PAP) MP Ng Chee Meng led a similar tour to Johor Bahru for 110 Singapore dollars. Participants enjoyed an all-you-can-eat durian breakfast buffet, shopping, and an eight-course Chinese dinner.

While the tour was open to all Singaporean citizens, priority was given to residents of Ng's Jalan Kayu constituency.

"Singaporeans make up about 50% of our customers," said John Chew, a 60-year-old durian seller near a shopping mall in Johor, on 9/7.

He noted that business has been brisk since the peak durian season began earlier this month, especially on weekends. Out of Malaysia's 200 durian varieties, Musang King is the most popular among Singaporeans.

"Prices vary depending on the grade. Grade A can fetch up to 14 USD per kg, while Grade B ranges from 7 to 9 USD," he explained.

Several other Singaporean MPs have planned durian tours in the coming weeks, including Minister for Sustainability and the Environment Grace Fu, who is organizing a two-day trip to Malacca from 26/7 to 27/7.

"This is probably our second or third time having durian here," said Wendy Chua, a Singaporean enjoying durian at a stall in Johor. "Some durian varieties in Johor are rarely found in Singapore, which makes this experience worthwhile."

Durians on display at the Johor Durian Festival on 28/6. Photo: The Star

These durian tours, which follow Singapore's general election two months ago, are a long-standing tradition for politicians and MPs to show appreciation to their constituents, according to tour operators.

"Singaporeans go on durian tours every year, but the number of groups increases by about 30% after elections," said Jimmy Leong, president of the Johor Tourist Guides Association. "Each group can have up to 8-10 buses."

Hong Hanh (According to The Star)

By VnExpress: https://vnexpress.net/nghi-si-singapore-dan-cu-tri-sang-malaysia-an-sau-rieng-de-cam-on-4912461.html