TONGOD: A red durian tree at Kampung Kenang Kenangan here has been acknowledged as the tallest and oldest of its species in Sabah.
The Sabah Forestry Department has measured and certified that the tree of about a century old, was standing at a height of 57.7 metres.
Kuamut assemblyman Datuk Masiung Banah said the certification of the tree meant it can be turned into a tourism product as one of the ways to attract visitors there and strengthen the local economy.
“Since 2020 is Visit Tongod Year, as stated in the Sabah Tourism calendar, we can prepare more tourism products that can be offered to tourists.
"For example, with the availability of the tallest red durian tree in the district, it has the potential of becoming an attraction ,” Masiung, who is also state Youth and Sports assistant minister, said during the recent launch of the tree.
He also extended his gratitude to villagers there for being able to come up with the idea.
It is learnt that the tree can produce at least 2,000 durians during the fruiting season.
During the programme, Masiung also presented donations to flood victims.
