Illegal Durian Harvest in Pahang

Authorities in Pahang have intercepted a vehicle transporting over 900 kilograms of illegally sourced Musang King and D24 durians during a routine patrol last Thursday. The durians, valued at approximately RM5,000 (US$1,180), were seized under the National Forestry Act 1984.

Investigation Findings

Zainuddin Jamaluddin, director of the Pahang State Forestry Department, revealed that preliminary investigations suggest the durians were harvested from trees illegally planted in the Gunung Benum Forest Reserve. The seized durians, categorized as grade C and D, were likely destined for the local market.

Ongoing Illegal Activities

The Gunung Benum Forest Reserve has become notorious for the unauthorized planting of fruit trees, including durians, mangosteen, rambutan, petai, and kantan. Local residents are suspected to be behind these activities. In response, daily patrols have been initiated as part of a joint operation involving the Royal Malaysia Police and other agencies.

Call to Action

Zainuddin has urged nearby communities to refrain from entering the reserve for harvesting or any unauthorized activities. This incident follows a recent operation where over 1,000 durian trees, many of the prized Musang King variety, were cut down in Raub.

Broader Issue of Land Encroachment

Sultan Abdullah Ahmad Shah highlighted the severity of land encroachment in Pahang, with nearly 14,500 hectares of government land unlawfully occupied for crops like oil palm, rubber, and durian. The Sultan has called for consistent enforcement to address this blatant theft of public resources.