Malaysia boasts a diverse array of exotic fruits, each with its own distinct flavor and appeal. This abundance offers tourists an opportunity to discover Malaysia's various landscapes, immerse in local culture, and savor these delightful fruits. Here's a guide to 17 of Malaysia's most popular exotic fruits and where to visit them, along with information on where to buy them and where to stay while exploring these regions.

1. Durian - Penang

Penang is famous for its durian orchards and festivals. Known as the "King of Fruits," durian has a powerful aroma and rich, creamy flesh. Visit the Durian Tasting Tour & Farm Experience for a comprehensive durian experience, where you can sample various types of durian and learn about its cultivation.

2. Starfruit - Penang  

Penang is also known for starfruit (carambola), named for its star-shaped cross-section. At the Tropical Fruit Farm , you can experience a variety of exotic fruits, including starfruit, while enjoying the scenic landscapes.

3. Langsat - Penang  

Langsat is another fruit popular in Penang. Visit the Tropical Fruit Farm to enjoy langsat, a small fruit with sweet, tangy pulp, and learn about traditional Malaysian cuisine.

Langsat  

4. Rambutan - Johor  

Johor is a leading producer of rambutan, a hairy fruit with juicy, sweet flesh. Visit Kebun Rambutan , a farm where you can harvest and taste fresh rambutan.

Rambutan  Source : Wikipedia

5. Pulasan - Johor  

Pulasan, a relative of rambutan, has a sweet, juicy pulp. Head to Hj Saian Durian & Pulasan (SaianFarm) to experience this fruit and learn about its cultivation. You can also stay at a nearby hotel in Sekudai, such as Hotel Sekudai, which is about 36 km from the farm.

Pulasan  Source : Wikipedia

Recommended places of stay shall be Skudai area, Johor which is about 36KM away from the farms

Place to Stay in Skudai , Johor

6. Longan - Perak

 Perak is known for longan, a small, round fruit with translucent flesh and a sweet flavor. Visit New Yik Thai Agri Products Sdn Bhd to explore a longan farm and sample fresh fruit. This location is about 24 km from Ipoh.

Longan Credit : chingnengbin.blogspot.com/

7. Pomelo - Perak

 Pomelo, a large citrus fruit, is also found in Perak. Visit the Tambun Pomelo GoChin Agro Farm for a guided tour of the farm, where you can see pomelo trees and sample the fruit. The entrance is free, and the farm is open daily.

Pomelo Source : FB GoChin Tambun Pomelo Agro Farm

Place to Stay in Ipoh, Perak

8. Mangosteen - Kedah  

Mangosteen, known as the "Queen of Fruits," is widely grown in Kedah. Visit The Night Market in Kuah, Langkawi for fresh mangosteen and other local delicacies. If you're planning to stay overnight, consider accommodations near Kuah, like this recommended spot.

Mangosteen fruits at The Night Market in Kuah, Langkawi

Place to Stay in Kuah, Langkawi  

9. Rambai & Rose Apple - Negeri Sembilan  

Negeri Sembilan is known for rambai, a small yellow fruit with sweet, juicy pulp. Visit Jelatok Retreat Farm to explore traditional village life and experience rambai and rose apple in a farm setting.

Rambai , Source Wikipedia

Rose Apple , Jelatok Retreat Farm  
 

Place to Stay in Negeri Sembilan  

10. Jackfruit - Selangor  

Selangor is home to many jackfruit plantations, with the fruit often used in both savory and sweet dishes. Visit Selangor Fruit Valley (SFV) for a range of fruit-based experiences, including fresh jackfruit.

Jackfruit  , Selangor Fruit Valley
 

11. Papaya - Selangor  

Selangor is also known for its papaya. Visit Everleaf to enjoy fresh papaya, along with other local fruits. This location provides a great opportunity to explore Selangor's fruit-based cuisine and culture.

Papaya , Everleaf
 

12. Cempedak - Selangor  

Selangor is also known for cempedak, a relative of jackfruit with a distinct aroma and sweet flavor. Check out Selangor Fruit Valley (SFV) to taste cempedak-based snacks like fried cempedak and explore the surrounding coastal landscapes.

Cempedak,  Selangor Fruit Valley (SFV
 

13. Tarap - Sabah  

Tarap is another exotic fruit from Sabah, known for its soft, fibrous texture and sweet aroma. Visit Pulutan Happy Farm to learn about tarap cultivation while exploring Sabah's stunning landscapes and wildlife.

Tarap,  Pulutan Happy Farm

Place to Stay in Kota Kinabalu

14. Breadfruit - Kelantan  

Breadfruit is grown in Kelantan, known for its starchy texture and versatility. Visit Kelantan's traditional markets to experience its vibrant culture while tasting breadfruit-based snacks.

Breadfruit  
 

15. Snake Fruit in Sarawak: A Unique Delicacy  

Sarawak, part of Malaysian Borneo, is home to the unique snake fruit, known for its scaly reddish-brown skin that resembles snake scales. This fruit has a crunchy texture and a sweet, tangy flavor that makes it a distinctive addition to any fruit lover's collection.

Snake fruit, or salak, is typically consumed fresh, but it can also be used in desserts or savory dishes. The fruit's compact size and intriguing texture make it a popular snack among locals and tourists alike.

If you're interested in trying this exotic fruit in Sarawak, the best place to visit is the Kubah Ria Market in Kuching. This bustling market offers a variety of fresh produce, including snake fruit, and provides a glimpse into the local culture and lifestyle. Strolling through Kubah Ria Market, you can experience the vibrant atmosphere, interact with local vendors, and sample a range of tropical fruits, including snake fruit.

Snake Fruit, Kubah Ria Market

Kubah Ria Market is not only a place to taste snake fruit but also an opportunity to explore Sarawak's diverse culinary scene. Visitors can find traditional snacks, local dishes, and other exotic fruits to enhance their experience in Sarawak. Be sure to bring a camera, as the market's vibrant colors and unique products make for great photo opportunities.

Whether you're a seasoned fruit enthusiast or simply curious about trying something new, the Kubah Ria Market is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Sarawak's rich culture and exotic fruits.

16. Canarium Odontophyllum in Sarawak: The "Sarawak Olive"  

Sarawak, located in Malaysian Borneo, is known for a unique fruit called Canarium odontophyllum, also known as dabai or "Sarawak olive." This exotic fruit has a dark purplish-black skin, a creamy texture, and a distinct flavor. Dabai is typically eaten with soy sauce and sugar, adding a delightful combination of sweet and savory tastes.

Dabai is a seasonal fruit, usually harvested between November and January. Its preparation can be simple, involving soaking the fruit in warm water to soften the skin, or more complex when used in local dishes. In Sarawak, dabai is a beloved snack and a key ingredient in various recipes.

While visiting Sarawak, tourists can explore the local markets and fruit stalls to find fresh dabai during its season. The fruit can be a delicious addition to your travel experience, giving you a taste of Sarawak's unique food culture.

If you want to sample dabai in a local setting, consider visiting the Kubah Ria Market in Kuching. This market is a hub for local produce and an excellent place to find dabai and other regional fruits. You can interact with vendors, learn about traditional uses of dabai, and even get recommendations for preparing it at home.

Dabai  -credit : USIM

Besides enjoying dabai, visitors to Sarawak can explore the region's lush rainforests, vibrant wildlife, and rich cultural heritage. With a blend of natural beauty and exotic fruits like dabai, Sarawak offers a unique and memorable travel experience for anyone interested in discovering the diverse flavors of Malaysia.

Summary

Malaysia is a treasure trove of exotic fruits, each with unique flavors and characteristics. This blog explores the various fruits found across different Malaysian states and highlights the best places to experience them, whether it's visiting farms, exploring local markets, or engaging in fruit-tasting tours.