Penang, Malaysia—10 June 2025— Gurney Bay Hotel, a PARKROYAL Partner Hotel, brought to life the essence of Malaysia’s rich farming heritage yesterday with Durian Feast 2025, a colourful celebration in tribute to the nation’s most iconic fruit—the durian.
Organized on the beautiful garden grounds of the hotel overlooking the legendary Gurney Bay, the event was a first-of-its-kind initiative by a hospitality group in Penang. Supported by the Penang Fruit Farmers Association, the evening was an experiential durian-tasting experience for invited guests, including government officials, business partners, media, and hospitality peers.
Attended by YB Wong Hon Wai, Penang State Executive Councillor for Tourism and Creative Economy, the banquet focused on the state’s produce as a driver of cultural tourism.
It’s not just a feast—it’s an experience,” said YB Wong. “You can buy fresh durian here, open it up, and enjoy it with the beautiful scenery of Gurney Bay. It’s a lovely way to savor Penang’s special character and our rich local produce.”
Guests enjoyed a range of Penang’s best durians—Musang King, Black Thorn, Red Prawn, Susu, Hor Lor, Khoon Poh, and the much-sought Little Red. Penang street foods, native sweets, and live cultural performances complemented them, providing a sensory experience of Malaysian food heritage.
The hotel garden was repurposed into a vibrant, outdoor durian market, offering tourists the chance to indulge in the fruit amidst an ambience that blended urban chic and kampung flavor.
To further attract visitors, Gurney Bay Hotel has launched a ‘Durian by the Bay’ package until and including Aug 30, 2025. The package includes a luxury stay at Gurney Bay Hotel, complimentary breakfast, and VIP access to Durian Feast for two—ideal for local visitors and durian enthusiasts who wish to enjoy this festive period.
Tourism and hospitality professionals are of the view that the event is a part of a new trend to merge heritage, agriculture, and lifestyle into Penang’s tourism agenda.
The Durian Feast 2025 also aligns with Penang’s drive to develop more local agritourism and support its unique food identity to the rest of the world, with durian culture being an increasingly sought-after experience for local and foreign tourists.
For information or reservations, contact Gurney Bay Hotel at +604 222 9988 or enquiry.prpgb@parkroyalhotels.com. Gurney Bay Hotel Hosts Grand Durian Feast 2025 to Celebrate Malaysia’s King of Fruits
