BUKIT MERTAJAM: Apart from the king of fruits, other local favourites are also in season.

       Fruit seller Mohd Nazri Mokhtar, 39, said jack fruit, mangosteen and rambutan are now plentiful, with more to come and expected to keep prices affordable.

       “Although durian is the most popular choice, the country produces many other good fruits.

       “There is so much fruit being harvested that I’m doubling my trips daily to the orchards.

       “Prices have also gone down for cempedak, which is now at RM12 per kg, and expected to drop to RM6 per kg soon.

       “Mangosteen and rambutan are both priced at RM10 per kg, and we expect them to also be cheaper by next month,” said Mohd Nazri at his stall in Kampung Pelet here recently.

       As for durians, Mohd Nazri said it still remains the most sought after fruit at his stall, going for as low as RM5 per kg.

       Meanwhile, a fruit supplier who only wished to be known as Chin, 45, said mangosteen, also known as the queen of fruits, was popular for its benefits.

       “Mangosteens are eaten as an ‘antidote’ to cool the body down after eating durians.

       “Compared to durians, which are naturally heaty and considered high-energy food, mangosteens are the opposite and have a delicately flavoured sweetness and mild acidic taste.

       “Mangosteens are rich in calcium, phosphorus, vitamins B and C as well,” he said.