GEORGE TOWN: Despite the string of public holidays in May, those itching to travel to Penang may be planning their trips to coincide with the expected durian season the following month.

       Some in the travel and hospitality industry here said they have yet to see a surge in bookings next month despite the upcoming long weekends.

       Labour Day on May 1 will fall on a Sunday, then Hari Raya Puasa is expected a day after on May 3 and 4 (Tuesday and Wednesday).

       There are also school holidays on May 5 and 6 (Thursday and Friday).

       Two weeks later, there will be Wesak Day on May 15 (Sunday) followed by Pesta Kaamatan, or the Harvest Festival, in Sabah and Labuan on May 30 and 31 (Monday and Tuesday).

       However, Penang’s durian season peaks in late May and into June.

       Nature Fruit Farm owner Tan Jit Keong, who runs homestays within an orchard of various fruits, is receiving a constant flow of visitors for gatherings and yoga, but bookings for homestay units remain moderate.

       “We are only receiving the usual traffic and have not recorded any spike for May.

       “Those who are booking are the usual families and groups.

       “The crowd is expected to increase only in June when the durian season starts,” he said.

       Durian farmer Tan Chee Wei, 39, also expects the durian season to be in June but said there would be fewer durians this year.

       “The trees are producing fewer fruits and there will be between a 30% and 40% reduction in harvest compared to last year.

       “Local favourites are still Musang King, Orr Chi (Black Thorn), Ang Heh (Red Prawn) and Hor Lor.

       “Prices in the market will still be high and only drop when the season starts in June.

       “Hence, we expect the crowd to wait,” he added.

       To cater for the coming crowd, Tan has prepared almost 20 tables at his stall for customers to dine in.

       Malaysian Association of Hotels Penang chapter chairman Tony Goh said hotel bookings are picking up for the first week of May due to the long public holidays but hotels are not operating at full capacity.

       “Penang remains a popular destination among domestic travellers for its beaches, nature, heritage, adventures and authentic street food.

       “However, many hotels are facing a shortage of staff and unable to operate all rooms.

       “Most hotels are only able to operate at about 50% of their full capacity,” he added.

       Penang Koosoo Kwong Choon Tong Restaurant and Tea Shop Association chairman Vinah Yee also said restaurants are not receiving any increase in reservations for next month.

       “Covid-19 cases are still high leading to many groups still postponing their feasts.

       “At present, there are only small reservations from families for reunions but major events will have to wait till year-end.

       “Many people have just reunited during the Qing Ming festival in April, so they are not meeting anymore in May.

       “On average, restaurants are only receiving about 75% of their usual sales compared to previous years before Covid-19,” she said.