"That thory thing." So goes its name in Malay. All across the Malay archipelago in Asia, the durian reigns supreme as King of Fruits. An acquired taste, the durian is to Southeast Asia what foie gras, truffles and caviar are to the West. Western description of durian almost always contains words like "smelly", "damp socks", "odoriferous", and other unpleasant adjectives to pin down what many in the Malay archipelago would describe as fragrant aroma. Yes, aroma. To many Asians, few fruit smells as nice, and I for one can't for the world of me compare it to smelly socks.
Penang durians are famous throughout Malaysia for their pleasant taste and aroma. It is no wonder that Penang people who work elsewhere in Malaysia return during durian seasons, bringing with them friends to enjoy this wonderful experience of durian feasts, usually held in one of the many durian orchards located on the southwest side of Penang Island.