Lae vs. Durian: Unveiling the Charm of a Lesser-Known Tropical Fruit

The author and Pepih Nugraha from Jakarta enjoyed lae fruit in Tanjung Selor, North Kalimantan.

BORNEOTRAVEL - Tanjungselor: If you ever find yourself traveling to Kalimantan during fruit season, don’t miss out on trying this hidden tropical gem: the fruit known as “lae” or “elai.” 

The lae fruit is similar to its famous cousin, the durian, but with its own unique twist. While durian is known for its strong aroma and polarizing taste, lae offers a much milder, sweeter experience.

A miniature durian

The lae fruit may resemble a miniature durian with its softer spines and smaller size, but it has a unique appeal all its own.

When I returned home and fruit season was in full swing, I posted a selfie on Facebook with this durian-like fruit—smaller and with gentler thorns. 

Enthusiastically, my friend Pepih commented, “Send some to Bintaro!” Without a second thought, I sent a box of these semi-ripe fruits to his address. A few days later, seeing Pepih and his family celebrating with the fruit in high spirits, I knew I’d made the right choice!

Various names

Known by various names like “kawai” or “pekawai” in West Kalimantan and “lai” in North and East Kalimantan, this fruit is truly a tropical treasure. It grows in the tropical forests of Borneo, thriving under the canopy of other trees, shielded from direct sunlight. Its distinct appearance—with larger leaves compared to durian and a smaller fruit—makes it quite unique. 

The taste of elai is unparalleled—sweet and savory without any trace of alcohol or gas that might upset your stomach. The flavor is so captivating, it’s hard to describe, and you’ll only truly understand it by tasting it yourself.

If you’re intrigued by this fruit, make sure to visit Tanjung Selor or North Kalimantan. My clever friend Pepih always brings this fruit back as a souvenir whenever he travels there. He’s even figured out clever ways to sneak it through the airport with various ingenious excuses! 

As far as I know, elai or pekawai is a tropical fruit native to Borneo. When I was a kid, we’d find it in the forest without knowing who grew it. Nowadays, we proudly consider it one of Borneo’s exotic fruits that’s truly worth savoring. It’s definitely better enjoyed fresh than just talked about.

-- Masri Sareb Putra