Their setups, however, were nevertheless quite close to one another, which made it difficult for each of them to attract customers.

“That led us to sit down and agree to set up a joint venture under the name ‘Rumah Buah’. Alhamdulillah, it turned out to be a blessing as our stall has since become a favourite spot for customers of all races.

“Many praised our effort, saying it serves as a good example of unity,” Nasir, 43, told Bernama at their shop on Jalan Chengal in Taman Batu Pahat recently.

Chew added that their partnership has attracted many customers from all over Malaysia and beyond.

“Before this, only locals would buy from me. Now, we have customers from Singapore, Thailand, and even China. They want to taste Musang King and see for themselves how we work together.

“Our story went viral during the Movement Control Order, when we sold durians online and personally delivered them to customers.”

The 42-year-old shared that they now sell up to three tonnes of durians daily, including Musang King, IOI, Black Thorn and D13 varieties.

Lognathan, meanwhile, said their cooperation continues beyond the durian season, as they sell other local fruits such as pineapple and mangosteen sourced from nearby farmers, as well as fresh coconut water.

“We also carry out charitable activities, especially during festive seasons, by sharing part of our earnings with the underprivileged,” said the 39-year-old, who is fondly known as Uda.

“Every Hari Raya Aidilfitri, Chinese New Year and Deepavali, we make sure to contribute to those in need,” he added. “And during Ramadan, we cook and distribute free bubur lambuk to our customers.”

Learn more about Rumah Buah on Facebook.

Rumah Buah
37, Jalan Chengal,
Taman Batu Pahat,
83000 Batu Pahat, Johor

Contact: 019-794 5332