For many Malaysians, bringing local food overseas is one way of keeping a little piece of home with them.
However, one woman’s attempt to bring Musang King durian back to Saudi Arabia ended in disappointment after the durian flesh she had packed in her checked luggage allegedly failed to pass airport inspection.
Thought checked luggage would be okay
Sharing her experience on Threads, the woman said she broke down at the airport after being told that three containers of Musang King durian she had packed could not be brought onto the flight.
According to her, the durian was not placed in the cabin, but inside her checked baggage.
She said she had wanted to bring it back to Saudi Arabia as she did not get the chance to properly enjoy durian during her holiday in Malaysia, reported mStar.
I cried at the airport when the three containers of Musang King I wanted to eat in Saudi Arabia could not get on the flight. I didn’t even have time to eat durian while I was in Malaysia,” she wrote.
‘It wasn’t even 20 seeds’
The woman added that the amount she brought was not a lot, claiming that it was just for her to have a small taste after returning to Saudi Arabia.
It wasn’t even 20 seeds. I just wanted to taste a bit. But if Allah says it’s not my rezeki, then it’s okay,” she said
She also claimed that she had never faced such an issue before, as she would usually pack durian in her checked luggage instead of carrying it into the cabin.
This made the situation even more disappointing for her, as she had assumed it would be allowed as long as it was not hand-carried.
Netizens say rules may differ by airline
Her sharing later drew mixed reactions from netizens, with some sympathising with her while others reminded travellers that durian is commonly restricted due to its strong smell.
Some pointed out that even if the durian had passed through before, it did not necessarily mean it would always be allowed.
As a reminder, travellers are advised to check with their airline and destination country before packing fresh fruits or strong-smelling food items, even if they are placed inside checked luggage.
