Malaysia and Indonesia are locked in a new debate over the durian, a fruit culturally important across Southeast Asia. Malaysia says durian is central to its identity and has proposed recognising it as the national fruit, along with creating a National Durian Day. Indonesia argues it has a stronger claim based on production, reporting nearly two million tonnes in 2024, its highest in five years. Malaysian varieties such as Musang King and Black Thorn drive global demand, while Indonesia highlights its wider species diversity. Both countries say the durian is part of their culture, placing the fruit at the centre of a regional discussion.