KUCHING: What is Mandarin orange and why is it one of the most important fruits, especially during Chinese New Year?
For starters, Mandarin orange is a small citrus tree fruit and is viewed as a distinct species of orange.
It is a fruit usually eaten plain or in fruit salads and the taste is considered sweeter and stronger than the common orange.
During Chinese New Year, the fruit is regarded as a symbol of good fortune, and it is not only because of its auspicious hue.
The traditional act of giving a person Mandarin oranges during CNY originates from Southern China.
It symbolises well wishes and blesses the recipient with prosperity. Hence, to exchange Mandarin oranges with family members, friends or loved ones signifies a form of respect and love between both parties.
Although the fruit has its own speciality during CNY, Mandarin oranges are also available throughout the year, depending on supply and demand.
Recently, New Sarawak Tribune visited Bong Choon Heng, a wholesaler who opened up a pop-up stall in front of E-Mart in Kenyalang, here.
Adeline Geramak, a staff of the company, said each box of the orange has a different price commensurate with its size.
“There are four sizes, S (RM50), M (RM55), L (RM78), and XL (RM88) and the sizes sold the most is size M, while XL is selling fast,” she said.
As to where they get their supply of the Mandarin oranges, she said the company imported the fruit from China.
“At the moment, we only import from China and not from anywhere else,” she added.
Thus far the sales of Mandarin oranges has been positive, she said, adding that after January 21, they will stop selling the oranges in front of the supermarket.
“If stocks finish, we will make an order again,” she added.
