Malaysia's renowned durian Musang King is being genetically modified and otherwise altered by some growers to make it sweeter, targeting the Chinese market. However, other industry players are against these changes, expressing concerns over the potential negative impact on the durian's taste and brand. The Malaysian Durian Manufacturers Association and the Malaysian Fruit Growers Association have voiced opposition, emphasizing the importance of durian quality over sweetness and highlighting the unique character of Malaysian durian as being sweet with a bitterness. The Agricultural Development and Research Institute (MARDI) of Malaysia has stated that while it is technically possible to reduce bitterness in durian through genetic modification, it poses challenges and requires thorough testing to ensure other traits are not affected. Malaysia maintains a strict GMO policy to ensure scientific and biotechnology progress alongside safety.