Mardi Director General Mohamad Zabawi stated that the suitability of several hybrid durian varieties for cultivation in different regions is currently being evaluated, and the final names and codes are yet to be confirmed. Among these, the MRDI Super 88 (MS88) variety will be renamed with a more attractive name.
It is reported that MS88 has been cultivated for 15 years, with thick flesh, rich sweetness, and a taste that can rival varieties such as Black Thorn. Moreover, it has a longer storage period, is less prone to cracking, and is primarily targeted at the Chinese market.
He added that under Mardi's comprehensive supervision, Malaysia has planted 13,000 MS88 durian trees. Some of these trees are now two to three years old, and it is expected that more extensive commercial sales can be carried out within the next 5-6 years.