Low Chee Leong, a lawmaker in the state of Melaka (Malaysia), said Fan Bingbing created a fever when he posted a photo of himself enjoying durian in this locality in June. Many Chinese tourists wanted to try it. Enjoy the delicious taste of durian here like the actress.
Low said he chatted with Chinese tourists eating durian at a stall along Jalan Tun Perak in Bachang, Melaka. The stall owner said the number of customers had increased dramatically after Pham Bang Bang's promotional post.
“We have seen a sharp increase in tourist arrivals from China over the past few weeks. Many people said they wanted to taste the durian that Chinese actress (Fan Bingbing) posted on her social networking page when she visited here in June," he shared.
In June, Fan Bingbing was appointed by Melaka Government Minister Ab Rauf Yusoh as ambassador for the Visit Melaka 2024 (TMM2024) program.
According to Low Chee Leong, there was an unexpected increase in the number of Chinese tourists coming to Melaka during the summer vacation starting on July 1 and ending on August 31.
Enjoying the famous Musang King durian and Black Thorn durian is the top choice in the tour itinerary of durian lovers in this country.
Low further revealed that Chinese customers told him that durian prices in Melaka are more affordable than in China. Besides, they enjoy many different flavors because there are many different types of durian in this state.
"Visitors can enjoy the freshest durians while staying here, as well as taste many other local fruits," he said.
Low said travel companies are also providing unique experiences for Chinese tourists, especially including durian enjoyment in tour packages when visiting destinations.
“Tour guides shared that they received positive feedback from Chinese tourists when they tasted durian while visiting this historic city,” he added.
Meanwhile, Edwin Teo, a small trader at Jalan Tun Perak, said he can provide cheaper and better quality durian because the fruit comes from his orchard.
Teo said Chinese tourists are brought to his booth by tour guides or order delivery online after seeing videos of his booth circulating online.
“It's good that I can play my role as a Melaka to help TMM2024 succeed,” he said.
