Kuala kangsar: The Malaysian Agricultural Research and Development Institute (MARDI) is set to introduce three new durian varieties within the next two years. MARDI director-general Datuk Dr Mohamad Zabawi Abdul Ghani announced that the institute is currently evaluating several promising hybrid durians that could result in new clones.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the evaluation process includes assessing the suitability of these hybrids for planting in various locations. Development is not limited to MARDI Kuala Kangsar; similar efforts are underway at MARDI Jerangau in Terengganu. The names and codes for these new varieties are still in the finalization stage and will be disclosed during the official launch.

Additionally, Mohamad Zabawi mentioned that the hybrid MRDI Super 88 (MS88) variety will undergo a rebranding process to give it a more appealing name. Under the supervision of MARDI, 13,000 MS88 durian trees have been planted nationwide. Some of these trees are currently between two and three years old, and in the next five to six years, they are expected to be ready for wider commercial distribution.