Heatwave in Malaysia sends durian trees blooming earlier than expected

BALIK PULAU, Malaysia – As Penang residents retreat indoors to escape the heat, durian trees are doing the opposite, bursting into bloom under weeks of dry, scorching weather. Strong harvest is expected this season, with some orchards already seeing early fruit sets. Orchard owner Tan Chee Keat, 35, said about 20 percent of his trees had