A Brief Description of the Timbers included in The Malayan Grading Rules

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A. V. THOMAS
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Chief Research Officer,
Forest Dept., Federation of Malaya

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PRINTED AT THE GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE, SINGAPORE

-DY R. D. GILLESPIE, ACTING GOVERNMENT PRINTER

To be purchased from GOVERNMENT PUBLICATIONS BUREAU.

-GENERAL POST OFFICE, FULLERTON BUILDING, SINGAPORR
1953
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Price: 50 cents

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rt•e escri•pti•ono te i•mers

i•nc u i•n

a a an ran• u es

PRINTED AT THE GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE, SINGAPORE,

-BY R. D. GILLESPIE, ·ACTING GOVERNMENT PRINTER
1953

A BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE TIMBERS INCLUDED IN DIE
MALAYAN GRADING RULES

A. HEAVY HARDWOODS

1. BALAU • • • • Page

2. RED BALAU.. • • • •1
•1
3. BITIS • • • • •1
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4. CHENGAL •• • • • •2
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5. DEDARU • • • • •3
•3
6. G1AM • • • • •3
•4
7. KERAN •' • • •

8. MERBAU • • • •

9. RESAK • • • •

10. TEMBUSU • • • •

B. MEDIUM HARDWOODS

11. KAPUR • • • • •4

12. KASAI • • • • •4
•5
13. KELAT • • • • •5
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14. KELEDANG . • • • •6
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15. KEMPAS. • • • • •6

16. KERUING . • • • • •7
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17. KULIM • • • • •7
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18. MATA ULAT • • • •8

19. MERAWAN : • • •

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20. PUNAH • • • •

21. RENGAS • • • •

22. SIM•. POH • • • •
23. TALANG • • • •

C. LIGHT HARDWOODS
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24. BINTANGOR •• • •• •8
25. DURIAN • •• •9
26. GERONGGANG • •9
27. JELUTONG • •• •9
28. KEDONDONG • • 10
29. KERANTAI • • •• • 10
30. KUNGKUR • •• • 10
31. MACHANG • • • 11
32. MEDANG • •• • 11
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C. LIGHT HARDWOODS continued.

33. MELAWIS • • •• Page
34. • ••
35. MELUNAK • • •• • 11
36.
37. MENGKULANG • •• • 11
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39. MERANTI, DARK RED •• • 12
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41. MERANTI, RED • •• • 12
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43. MERANTI, WHITE • •• • 12
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45. MERANTI, YELLOW • • 13
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47. MERSAWA • • •• • 13
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NYATOH • • •• • 14

PENARAHAN • •• 14• • '
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PISANG-PISANG •
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SENDOK-SENDOK •
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SEPETIR • •
TERAP • •
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TERENTANG

A BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE TIMBERS INCLUDED IN THE
MALAYAN GRADING RULES

A. HEAVY HARDWOODS

1. BALAU

A yellow or grey-brown, or distinctly red timber darkening on exposure
to a deeper shade of brown, purple-brown, or dark red-brown, produced by

twelve species of Shorea. It is hard and heavy, the mean weight for the

different species being from 53 to 66 lb. per cubic foot at I5 per cent
moisture content.

All forms of the timber are durable, a few even surpassing Chengal in
this respect, though, on the average, the timber must be considered inferior
to Chengal. The strength properties are high, but, on account of the variation
among the species forming the group, it is advisable to employ a larger
margin of safety than might be used for Chengal.

The timber is not unduly difficult to work although distinctly inferior
to Chengal in this respect. Care is necessary in seasoning small dimension
stock as shrinkage is appreciable and the timber is liable to split in drying.
Unlike Chengal, the timber is usually remarkably free from 'pin hole' and
borer damage.

The timber is suitable for all heavy constructional work. Supplies are
good as the species producing Balau are widespread and until recently have
been in much less demand than Chengal. Differentiation between the species
included in the Balau group is impossible in ordinary circumstances, but it
may be practicable when the locality of origin is known and the species
occurring in that area are few and distinct.

2. RED BALAU

A red-brown or purple-red timber, darkening on exposure and losing

much of its red colour, produced by three species of Shorea i.e. Shores guise,

S. kunstleri and S. ochrophloia. It is a hard and heavy timber with an average

weight of 53 to 56 lb. per cubic foot at 15 per cent moisture content.
Generally speaking the timber is inferior to Balau in durability, but the
timber of S. kunstleri is as durable as certain forms of Balau. The mechanical

properties are slightly inferior to Balau but are markedly superior to Dark

Red Meranti.
It is comparatively easily worked, but care in seasoning is necessary as
shrinkage is appreciable and it is sometimes liable to split badly when drying.
Defects in the logs are not serious, insect attack, at least in the living tree,

not being an important factor. .
The timber is suitable for heavy constructional work. In the Kinta

Valley mines tlfe timber of Shorea kunstleri, which is separately known as
Damar laut merah, is particularly favoured for the bottoms of chutes and
for packing the roller shells of dredges, both uses that demand good wearing

qualities and high durability. ..
Supplies are limited although often locally abundant in certain areas.

3. BITS

The bulk of the timber known as Bitis is obtained from Madhuca utilis,
but the vernacular name is also applied to heavy timber from species of

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Palaquium and Payena, and to other less heavy species of Madhuca. Bitis
(Madhuca utilis) is a red-brown to purple-brown timber with a moderately

fine and even texture, weighing about 70 lb. per cubic foot at 15 per cent
moisture content. It is durable in contact with the ground, though not quite
the equal of Chengal.

The timber is difficult to saw but is comparatively easy to plane to a
good finish and takes an excellent polish. It dries fairly slowly but, as the
shrinkage is high, is liable to appreciable degrade from surface checking and
end splitting. It is an extremely strong and hard timber which is very
difficult to impregnate with wood preservatives.

Supplies are restricted but the timber is suitable for all forms of heavy
constructional work in contact with the ground and for wharves and bridges.

It is favoured locally for kandar sticks and changkol handles.

44. CHENGAL

A dark purple-brown or rust-red ~imber with a rather inconspicuous

ribbon figure produced by Balanocarpus heimii. When freshly cut the timber

is light yellow-brown with a slight green tinge, but rapidly darkens on
exposure. It is hard and heavy, the weight at 15 per cent moisture content
ranging from 57 to 61 lb. per cubic foot.

The timber is among the best naturally durable timbers of the Peninsula
and will resist fungal infection and termite attack for considerable periods;
it is not, however, resistant to marine borers being inferior to Merbau in
this respect. The mechanical properties of the timber are high and in
every way it is suitable as a heavy constructional timber.

Working qualities are good and it is by far the most easily converted
of the heavy, hard Dipterocarp timbers. It is slow drying and shrinkage
is low so there is little risk of degrade in seasoning. Of the heavy con-
structional timbers, only Merbau surpasses it in this quality. The appearance
of boards and planks is often spoiled by numerous 'pin holes' which are
the galleries of ambrosia beetles that attack the living tree, but in practically
no cases are the galleries sufficiently numerous for the strength properties
of the timber to be materially reduced.

The timber is the standard wood of the Peninsula for heavy structural
work and all other timbers are compared with it. Supplies are generally
fair as the tree is widespread, but accessible areas rich in the species have
been largely worked out prior to reservation and the amount coming on to
the market at one time is limited. Formerly the timber was frequently used
in situations where a very durable, strong timber was unnecessary and the
limitation of supplies should preclude such wasteful utilization.

5. DEDARU

This is a yellow-brown timber produced by Cantleya corniculata. It is

very hard and heavy, weight at 15 per cent moisture content being about
70 lb. per cubic foot.

It is durable and strong and, if it were less rare, would be a valuable
timber particularly as it has fine turnery qualities. It is practically confined
to Johore from which source limited supplies are sent to the Singapore
market. It is found also in Sumatra and Borneo.

6. G1AM

There are 9 species of Hopea that produce Giam timber but only 3
species (Hopea helferi, H. nutans and H. semicuneata) attain sufficiently big

sizes to be considered worth exploiting, while the remainder are small-sized
trees and not of much use as timber except as poles.

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When freshly cut the timber is yellow-brown in colour sometimes with
a greenish tinge (not of the same intensity as the green shade of Chengal),

but weathers ultimately to a dark tan brown. The weight ranges from 51 to
70 lb. per cubic foot at 15 per cent moisture content.

Giam is one of the most durable timbers of Malaya, even surpassing
Chengal. In mechanical properties Giam is almost as strong as Chengal.

aexcept in resistance to shock which is lower. It is hard to work but planes

to smooth surface and takes a good polish. It is slow drying but the
shrinkage is not excessive and seasoning defects are usually negligible. This
timber is normally free of serious defects.

Giam can be used for heavy structures, bridges, boat building, marine
piling, railway sleepers and all work where Chengal is ordinarily used.

Supplies are scarce.
7. KERANI

A very hard, dark-brown timber, light golden-brown or red-brown when

freshly cut, produced by about eight or nine species of Dialium, which weighs

on the average about 60 lb. per cubic foot at 15 per cent moisture content.

The durability varies with the species, but none can be considered very
durable. Tests have been carried out on two species and the mechanical
properties of both are considerably better than those of Teak, and slightly
better than those of Chengal. The timber is not easy to work and is liable

to split in seasoning.
Its use has been restricted by reason of its hardness and difficulty of

conversion but, on account of its pleasing appearance, it is worthy of more
attention. It has been reported on favourably for changkol handles, although
the preference was for sapwood handles because of their lighter weight and
greater springiness. The timber is favoured for sledges used in panglong
extraction. Supplies do not come on the market at present but could be mae

available as the tree, though not abundant, is by no means uncommon and

attains a reasonable size.

8. MERBAU

Merbau is a heavy, durable wood, averaging about 50 lb. per cubic foot

at 15 per cent moisture content. It is obtained in Malaya only from Insid

palembanica, but is closely related to Ipil from the Philippine Islands, and to

Afelia spp. It is a bronze to dark-red wood, changing to dark-brown when

exposed.

Merbau shrinks very little and seasons slowly but without trouble. I is

stronger than Teak in all mechanical properties. In Malaya it is widely used
for heavy construction work, but, if carefully matched for colour, it makes
very attractive panelling, flooring and furniture.

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, 9. RESAK

Although more than twenty species of Vatica, two species of Cotyle-
lobium, and Upuna borneensis produce Resak timber, this is a homogenous

group and the timbers are not easily differentiated one from the other.
Resak is yellow-brown or brown with an olive tinge in colour when

freshly cut, weathering with exposure to a dark red-brown. The timber is
fine-grained but freshly cut surfaces are liable to be tacky as a result of the

exudation of resin. The weight ranges from 41 to 66 lb. per cubic foot at
15 per cent moisture content, but the majority of the timbers are well above

50 lb.
This timber is classed as one of the naturally durable 'primary hard-

woods' of this country. It is rather difficult to saw as resin is apt to clog

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the saw teeth, necessitating frequent cleaning with kerosene. In most mechani-
cal properties it is equal to Teak and may be 150 per cent better but its
shock resisting ability is, at its best, only as much as Teak. The seasoning
characteristics of Resak are not very good, the shrinkage being high, and
checking and distortion are liable to occur unless boards and planks are
carefully stacked.

Because of the comparatively small size of the trees this timber is not
widely exploited; small quantities of Resak arrive in this country from
Thailand and Indonesia.

10. TEMBUSU

A light yellow-brown timber which darkens on exposure to a deep
golden or orange-brown colour, produced by Fagr@a gigantea and F. fragrans.
It is moderately hard and heavy, the weight at 15 per cent moisture content
ranging from 38 to 56 lb. per cubic foot.

The timber is very durable in contact with the ground, but is not
particularly resistant to marine borers. Its strength properties have not been
tested, but from empirical knowledge it is known to be suitable for heavy
constructional work. It is reasonably easy to work for a hard and heavy
timber. The rate of seasoning is very slow and, as shrinkage is slight,
·seasoning defects do not develop.

Insufficient supplies render the timber of little economic importance, but
it has been used for heavy constructional work, railway sleepers, flooring,
chopping blocks, and printing dies. F. fragrans is suitable as a plantation
crop and, though a small tree, may become of considerable importance in
the future.

B. MEDIUM HARDWOODS

11.KFu

This is mainly the product of Dryobalanops aromatica but consignments
of this timber may include small quantities of Dryobalanops oblongifolia.
It is a moderately hard, moderately heavy timber averaging about 49 lb.
per cubic foot at 15 per cent moisture content, and is identical with Borneo
Camphorwood. It is some 10 to 20 per cent stronger than Teak in all
mechanical properties, but shrinks a good deal more, so that care is necessary
in the early stages of drying.

Kapur is comparatively free from defects, and may be given a satis-
factory finish if wax polished. While liable to termite attack, it is not very
susceptible to rot, and has proved very durable in temperate climates. It can
be used for general building construction, flooring, railway rolling stock, and
lorry bodies. It cannot be easily impregnated with preservatives.

Supplies are somewhat restricted, but in 1950 some 3,000 tons were
shipped from Malaya.

12. KASAI

Of the 4 species of Pometia that produce Kasai timber three, Pometia

alnifolia, P. pinnata and P. ridleyi, are common. Kasai is not in favour with

the Chinese timber workers and is not likely to become a source of much
timber in this country. In the Philippines, where this timber is known as
Mulungai, it is said to be very common and widely used.

Kasai is light purple-red or red-brown in colour. It is hard and heavy
and weighs from 46 to 55 lb. per cubic foot at 15 per cent moisture content.
In mechanical strength it is very nearly equal to Teak. It is quite durable for

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interior work but only moderately so when exposed to the weather. It is not
resistant to marine borers.

Kasai is generally reported to shrink a good deal and to be liable to
warping and splitting while seasoning. It works without difficulty, planes to
a good surface and takes a good polish.

Specific uses are not known in this country but elsewhere it is said
to make good building timber. In the Philippines it is used for beams, joists,
rafters, flooring, interior finish, furniture, cabinet work, boat building, ete.

Other uses are tool handles and bent wood work.
Supplies are restricted and this timber is seldom sold separately.

13. KELAT

About 20 of the 140 species of Eugenia found in the Malay Peninsula.

and which produce Kelat timber, are known to reach timber size. The
majority are small-sized trees and are not considered an economic source

of timber other than as firewood and jungle poles.
The timber is grey-brown, pink-brown or red-brown in colour and weighs

from 36 to 63 lb. per cubic foot at 15 per cent moisture content, but most
of the timber weighs above 50 lb. per cubic foot. Kelat is only moderately
durable in exposed positions and it does not absorb preservatives readily.
It is comparatively easy to saw but has a blunting effect on sharp tools, and
planed surfaces, though smooth, are usually dull. Its mechanical properties
are slightly superior to those of Teak. It is slow drying but shrinkage is
appreciable and there is a tendency to serious splitting.

Kelat has in the past been mainly used for firewood and for poles,
but it is suitable for general building construction.

Supplies are restricted as this timber is very seldom sawn in the mills.

14. KELEDANG

A pale yellow-brown timber darkening on exposure and weighing from
40 to 50 lb. per cubic foot at 15 per cent moisture content. It is produced

only by Artocarpus lanceifolia, one of twenty species of this genus in Malaya.

Keledang is generally free of defects but its interlocked grain and
'woolly texture make it very difficult to saw. It dries moderately quickly
and without developing serious seasoning defects. Its mechanical properties
are considerably higher than those of Teak, and may be compared with
those of Kempas, but it is not so resistant to shock. It was formerly reported
to be a fairly durable timber, but recent tests indicate that it may be less
durable than was originally believed. The sapwood absorbs preservative
readily, but it is almost impossible to impregnate the heartwood.

Keledang is not an uncommon tree but the timber is seldom, if ever,
sawn. It is, however, very popular for hewn coffins and would be suitable

in the round for house construction.

15./ KEMPS

This is produced only from the species, Koompassia malaccensis. It is
a hard and heavy timber, averaging about 55 lb. per cubic foot at 15 per cent

moisture content. It is somewhat difficult to work but with the right type

of saw and planer blade (cutting angle 20°) good results can be obtained.
This is not a durable timber under tropical conditions, but is very

durable in temperate climates. It can be readily impregnated with preserva-

tives by pressure or open-tank processes. . .

Kempas is much stronger than Teak and is comparatively tough. It can
be classified as heavy constructional timber and, in Malaya, it is used mainly
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for railway sleepers. When planed it has a pleasing appearance and it could
be utilized for flooring, particularly as its shrinkage is low.

Supplies can be fairly readily obtained, and in 1950 about 2,400 tons
were exported from Malaya, mainly in 2 in. and 3 in. planks and scantlings.

VI6. KERUING

This timber is produced by many different species of Dipterocarpus.

It is moderately hard to hard and moderately heavy to heavy, the weight at
15 per· cent moisture content ranging from 40 to 57 lb. per cubic foot. Its
mechanical properties vary; the lighter species are nearly as strong as Teak,
while the heavier species are considerably stronger. Care is required in season-
ing as considerable shrinkage takes place.

This timber is identical with Borneo Keruing and very similar to Philip-
pine Apitong, Indian Gurjun or Eng, and Siamese Yang. Except for the very
heavy species, it is not durable in contact with the ground in tropical
countries, but it may be adequately protected by impregnation with preserva-
tives, either pressure or open-tank processes.

It is suitable for flooring, stair cases, wagon planks, and general
moderately heavy constructional work. When properly treated with preserva-
tives it has given excellent service as railway sleepers, in dock construction,
and for telegraph posts and cross arms.

Supplies are readily available and 11,300 tons, mainly planks, flooring'
strips and wagon boards, were exported in 1950.

V17. KULIM

This timber is the product of Scorodocarpus borneensis, which is not

generally abundant but occurs comparatively frequently in certain districts.
It is distinctive by reason of its dark purple-brown colour and odour of garlic
when freshly cut. The dark purple-brown wood is the central core of heart-
wood, but surrounding this there is usually an annular band of red-brown
wood. The timber has a moderately fine and even texture, and its average
weight is about 52 lb. per cubic foot at 15 per cent moisture content.

It is not difficult to saw and dries fairly rapidly with a tendency to split.
Its mechanical properties are slightly better than those of Teak except in
resistance to shock. Reports on its durability are conflicting; in some exposed
positions it has lasted well, whereas in others it has become quickly infected
by fungus. It is one of the best of local timbers for use in salt water. It is
not easy to treat with preservative but will absorb up to 7 lb. per cubic foot
of creosote if submitted to high pressure.

Kulim is suitable for all forms of building construction, but it is doubtful
if it should be used in damp locations. It is generally sawn into planks and
scantlings but is not of great commercial importance.

18. MATA ULAT

A light straw-coloured or pale pinkish-brown timber, the product of five

species of Lophopetalum, varying in weight from 39 to 66 lb. per cubic foot

at I5 per cent moisture content. Flat-sawn faces have zig-zag markings caused
by the concentric layers of wood parenchyma.

The lighter species of this timber are not difficult to saw but the heavy
timbers are recalcitrant under both hand and machine tools. The timber
dries moderately fast but shrinkage is low and serious seasoning defects do
not develop. It is moderately durable, and will absorb preservatives fairly
readily, except in the inner core of dark brown wood. The mechanical
properties of one species of Mata Ulat, of an average air-dry weight of

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61 lb. per cubic foot, were considerably higher than those of Teak; in
compression and shear they were over 75 per cent as good as Chengal, while
in hardness they were equal to Chengal.

Mata Ulat is not of economic importance, but some species are occa-
sionally sawn and mixed with Meranti, though the heavier species are very
much heavier and stronger. These heavier forms are liked as firewood.

19. MERAWAN

This timber is produced from 20 different species of Hopea which range

in weight from 37 to 53 lb. per cubic foot at I5 per cent moisture content,
the heavier timbers being suitable for inclusion in the Medium Hardwood
group. Most of the timber is of various shades of light yellow-brown with
an olive green tinge, but one or two species are light red-brown. All darken
on exposure.

This timber is comparatively easy to work. It dries slowly but the
shrinkage is low and consequently there is very little degrade in seasoning.
It is particularly resistant to fungal infection, and is mechanically stronger
than most timbers of equal weight. It is a very good joinery timber, but it i
not available in large quantities and is normally exported in small quantities
in mixed consignments of Light Hardwoods.

20. PUNAH

This timber is obtained only from Tetramerista glabra. It is light yellow-

pink or pink-brown when freshly cut, but fades gradually to a straw colour.

Its average weight is 45 lb. per cubic foot at I5 per cent moisture content. ?n

comparison with English Oak, Punah is about 30 per cent stifler, I5 t0 20 per
cent stronger in compression and bending, but 20 per cent less hard and less
resistant to shock.

Punah is easy to work but would require considerable sanding and filling
before it could be polished. It dries rapidly but, as shrinkage is fairly higi.
it should be carefully seasoned. It is remarkably free of defects and is used
in Malaya for general building construction.

Supplies are reasonably abundant in certain localities, and shipments in

1950 amounted to 1,000 tons, mainly in planks and scantlings for door an,

window sills.

21. RENGAS

Rengas is the vernacular name for the timber of all species of Gluta an

Melanorrhca. The sapwood is pink or pale straw-coloured, sharply differen-

tiated from the heartwood, which is bright red or blood-red usually with

darker-coloured layers and often streaked with yellow. The red colour tones

down after prolonged exposure and becomes a Mahogany red-brown unless

exposed to strong sunlight when it fades. The weight at I5 per cent moisture

content ranges from 41 to 55 lb. per cubic foot but the average for the

figured heartwood is approximately 50 lb. . . ...

This timber is not often worked because its sap is virulently irritating to

some people, though the majority are not affected. Moreover, the timber con-

tains silica and consequently has a blunting effect on all sharp-edged toois.

It should be sawn in a green condition. Because of its low shrinkage, it

seasons without degrade and holds its shape very well. The sapwood is liable

to fungal infection and borer attack but the heartwood is very durable it

not directly exposed to the soil.

aDespite the presence of silica in this timber, it can be planed to smooth

surface which will take a very high polish without much sanding. It is a most

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suitable wood for cabinet making, except for the irritating sap, but very few
people indeed are affected by the seasoned timber.

22. SIMP' OH

This is a red-brown timber with a distinct purple tinge, resembling

Keruing when freshly cut, produced by species of Dillenia and Wormia.

Eleven species of the two genera have been recorded, but only three. species

of Dillenia produce trees known to attain timber size. It is moderately hard

and heavy, weight at 15 per cent moisture content ranging from 35 to 58 lb.
per cubic foot.

The timber is easy to work, but care is required during seasoning as
tangentially cut boards are liable to warp. It possesses mechanical properties
somewhat superior to those of Dark Red Meranti and while not durable
• in contact with the ground, it can readily be impregnated with preservatives,
even by the open-tank process.

Simpoh is now frequently cut in sawmills but is generally sold in mixed
consignments. It is undoubtedly suitable for railway sleepers if treated with
preservatives.

23. TUALANG

Tualang is the timber of Koompassia excelsa, a comparatively rare tree

of hillsides and stream valleys which is found to grow only in the northern
half of this Peninsula, in particular along the main range. The trees grow
to a very large size.

The timber is dark red-brown in colour weathering to a chocolate-brown
and bas a wavy attractive grain. Its weight ranges from 50 to 55 lb. per cubic
foot at 15 per cent moisture content. It is a strong, moderately durable
timber belonging to the same class as Kempas, but it is very hard to work
and is liable to spilt in drying. If carefully planed it has a very attractive
surface which takes a good polish.

Difficult sawing and hand-working qualities have prejudiced the timber
workers against Tualang, and this timber has not been much used in the
past except as firewood and for charcoal manufacture. However, carefully
seasoned timber will make very attractive panels, table tops, or other decora-
tive articles. It is also useful for house construction and railway sleepers,
but for the latter purpose it should be adequately treated with a suitable
wood preservative.

Supplies are very scarce.

C. LIGHT HARDWOODS

24. BINTANGOR

This is a brick-red, red-brown, or dark orange timber darkening on
exposure, and varying in weight from 37 to 58 lb. per cubic foot at 15
per cent moisture content, but averaging about 43 lb. per cubic foot. There

are some 40 species of Calophyllum in Malaya which produce Bintangor,

but the majority of this timber is sawn from 4 or 5 species. The timber of

Calophyllum inophyllum can' usually be distinguished from that of other

species of this genus, and is known separately as Penaga Laut.
Bintangor is generally easy to saw, but the sawn surface is inclined to

be woolly owing to interlocked grain, which may cause roughness on a planed
surface. It dries moderately rapidly and does not shrink excessively, but is
liable to serious warping unless carefully handled while seasoning. As it is
not particularly susceptible to fungal attack it should prove quite durable

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in temperate climates. The sapwood can be readily impregnated with preser-
vatives, but the heartwood is somewhat resistant. It is stronger than oak in
bending and compression, of about equal stiffness, but not as resistant to
shock nor as hard.

The timber is sold locally with Red Meranti and is used for general

building purposes. It is popular in the round for poles and the masts of

sailing ships; it makes good diving boards. It is not generally exported
separately, but is included in mixed consignments of Light Hardwoods.

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25. DURIAN V

All species of Bombacacee found in Malaya, except Salmalia valetonii
(Bombax larutense) produce timber commercially known as Durian. The
timbers of different genera (Boschia calostegia, Neesia and Durio), are
characteristically similar and cannot, with certainty, be separated one from
the other. The heartwood of Durian is normally brown to deep brown, except
that from Cclostegia which is orange-brown when freshly cut, but which
loses the orange shade on exposure and turns brown like timber of the
other species. The weight of Durian ranges from 29 to 47 lb. per cubic foot
at 15 per cent moisture content, but the average is about 40 lb. per cubic foot.

Durian is durable under cover but perishes rapidly if in contact with
the ground in tropical areas. Some of the timber, particularly that from
species of Durio, is very susceptible to Lyctus attack, but all Durian timber
can be readily impregnated with wood preservatives. Its mechanical properties
are very similar to those of Red Meranti, it seasons rapidly and, as the
shrinkage is low, without developing any serious defects. It can be sawn
without any difficulty, it planes to a smooth surface, holds nails well, and
takes a reasonably good polish.

Durian is regularly sawn into boards, scantlings and battens for house
construction and can be successfully made into plywood. The timber of
species of Cclostegia is commonly used for the manufacture of clogs. Durian
is not available in large quantities and would normally be supplied in
consignments of mixed light hardwoods.

26. GERONGGANG

This is a light brick-red or dark-pink timber weighing from 30 to 35 lb.

per cubic foot at 15 per cent moisture content. It is the product mainly of

Cratoxylon arborescens (Vahl) Bl., which grows in the coastal swamp forests.

The timber is very easy to saw, but is slightly abrasive to planer and

cutter knives. It seasons rapidly and without serious degrade. It is seldom

attacked by fungus and should therefore be durable in areas free of termites.

It can be easily treated with wood preservatives. Its mechanical properties

are more or less. equivalent to Scots pine, except that the latter is tougher.

Geronggang is sold locally as a general utility timber and for the cheaper

grade of furniture. It peels satisfactorily and makes good veneer.
Fair quantities of this timber can be obtained, but it is normally exported
in parcels of mixed Light Hardwoods and in mixed consignments of flooring

strips. 27. JELUTONG V

This timber, of an average weight of 28 lb. per cubic foot at 15 per cent

moisture content, is produced only by Dyera costulata. It is a white to pale
straw-coloured timber of fine and even texture; the sapwood cannot generally

be distinguished from the heartwood. •

Jelutong is easy to work and cuts very cleanly. It should be dried as
rapidly as possible as it is subject to 'blue stain'; fortunately, as its shrinkage

10

is low, the only defects likely to occur are surface splits developing from the
large latex canals that are common in this timber. It is slightly less strong
and stiff than Scots pine and is appreciably softer. It can be very easily
treated with preservatives.

This timber is suitable for pattern making, drawing boards, frames of
light cases, and battery separators. It is not available in large quantities as
the tree is usually retained for its latex, which is used in the manufacture
of chewing gum.

28. KEDONDONG

A timber produced mainly by species of Canarium of the family Bur-

serace«. It is usually light pink-brown when freshly cut, darkening slightly
on exposure to about the same shade as Light Red Meranti; the timber of

Canarium apertum is, however, light yellow. It is soft to moderately hard

• with a moderately coarse but even grain, and at 15 per cent moisture content
weighs from 30 to 45 lb. per cubic foot, the average being about 35 lb.
It is not durable in exposed positions in the tropics.
With the exception of C. apertum, which contains silica, the timber can
be worked without difficulty. It dries comparatively slowly without excessive
shrinkage so that serious defects do not develop. Its mechanical properties
are about ten per cent better than the average for Light Red Meranti. The
heartwood is almost impervious to preservative treatment.
Kedondong is relatively abundant and is being increasingly converted;
it is usually mixed indiscriminately with Light Red Meranti.

29. KERANTAI

Kerantai is the product of all species of Dacryodes, Santiria and Scuti-
nanthe, but the major part of this timber comes from one species, Santiri

l@vigata. The colour may be either red-brown or yellow-brown with a

greenish tinge and the weight varies from 39 to 53 lb. per cubic foot at
15 per cent moisture content.

This timber is not durable in exposed positions nor does it readily
absorb wood preservatives. Its mechanical properties are generally similar
to Dark Red Meranti. Kerantai is very difficult to work and the silica
inclusions in this timber have very serious dulling effect on cutting tools.
It seasons without serious degrade, the rate of drying being slow and the
shrinkage comparatively low.

Kerantai is suitable for interior building construction provided it is not
exposed to the weather or termite attack. Although not rare, Kerantai is
not in abundant supply and is not generally procurable as a separate timber.

30. KUNGKUR

A mahogany-brown or light red-brown timber darkening on exposure

to a deep shade of brown. It is produced by several species of Pirhecellobium
of which only one, P. confertum, is of any importance. The timber is

moderately hard, and light to moderately heavy, the weight at 15 per cent
moisture content ranging from 29 to 53 lb. per cubic foot with an average
of about 42 lb. It is moderately durable in contact with the ground, but
details of its mechanical properties are not yet available.

Kungkur is easy to work and relatively free from defects, but is never
likely to be of much economic importance as it is too sporadic in occurrence.
When available it is worthy of attention and could be used with advantage

for interior fittings, furniture and cabinet work. At present it is mixed

indiscriminately with Meranti.

'

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31. MACHANG

Machang is produced by all species of Mangifera, the wild as well as
the cultivated Mango tree. It is usually yellow-brown or orange-yellow brown
but occasionally has a dark central core. Its average weight is about 35 lb.
per cubic foot at 15 per cent moisture content.

Machang is not a naturally durable timber, but absorbs wood preser-
vatives readily. Small scale tests of its mechanical properties indicate that in
compression, hardness and shear, Machang is slightly superior to ash while
in resistance to shock it is not much better than Scots pine. This timber is
difficult to saw and has a dulling effect on tools. The surface is apt to
pick up' while planing, but a carefully planed surface is very lustrous and
takes a good polish. It dries rapidly, shrinkage is low and seasoning defects
are not serious. Slow drying is liable to cause stain.

Machang is useful for general construction work, interior finish, cheap
furniture, veneers, packing cases, etc. Supplies are restricted.

32. MEDANG

Medang is a soft to moderately hard timber produced from many species
of the Lauraceae which range in weight from 25 to 55 lb. per cubic foot at
15 per cent moisture content, but most species average about 35 to 40 lb.
per cubic foot.

The colour varies from yellow-brown to olive-yellow, but most of this
timber has a greenish shade, which tends to disappear on exposure to light.
The timber is generally easy to work; it dries moderately slowly with com-
paratively little shrinkage and consequently seasoning defects are not serious.
The timber is moderately durable, it takes a good polish, and has been found
to be very satisfactory for plywood.

Supplies are restricted and it is only exported in small quantities in
Light Hardwood consignments.

33. MELAWIS

This is a white or pale yellow timber produced mainly by Gonystylus
bancanus which is common in fresh-water swamp forest. The timber is
moderately hard and its average weight is about 40 lb. per cubic foot at
15 per cent moisture content. The timber has a moderately fine and even
texture. Its mechanical properties are equivalent to those of Dark Red
Meranti, which is stiffer and stronger than English Oak, but not so hard or
shock-resisting. It is exported from Sarawak under the name of Ramin.

Melawis is easy to work although it has a slight blunting effect on
sharp-edged tools. It seasons fairly rapidly without serious trouble, but is
liable to 'blue stain' unless stacked in well-ventilated sheds immediately after
it is sawn. It may be easily impregnated with preservatives.

Supplies are reasonably abundant in restricted localities and in 1950 just
over 1,000 tons were exported, chiefly in flooring strips and I in. boards.

34. MELUNAK

Melunak is a red-brown or dark red-brown timber produced by six
species of Pentace, of which Pentace triptera is the most common. The weight
of this timber ranges from 33 to 61 lb. per cubic foot at 15 per cent moisture
content, the average for P. triptera being 38 lb.

This timber can be sawn with comparative ease, and planes to a good
finish. It dries moderately fast without excessive shrinkage but is liable to
slight warping and surface checking. It is as hard and as strong in shear

12

as Teak, and is only slightly inferior in other mechanical properties. Its
durability has not yet been tested, but it is believed to be equivalent only

to that of Dark Red Meranti. It is very difficult to treat with preservatives.

Melunak is suitable for good quality joinery, furniture and panelling. It is
only available in small quantities.

35. MENGKULANG

There are six species of Tarrietia in Malaya that produce Mengkulang,
but miost of this timber comes from T. simplicifolia. Mengkulang is a red
or red-brown timber of an average weight of 45 lb. per cubic foot at 15
per cent moisture content. Its mechanical properties are superior to all
forms of Meranti, and compare very closely with Teak.

Comparatively frequent sharpening is necessary when working this
timber, as it has a dulling effect on edged tools. It seasons quickly without
serious trouble provided good seasoning practice is followed. It finishes well.
has good nail-holding properties, and makes very good plywood. It is similar
to Lumbayao from the Philippines and Tulip Oak from Australia.

Limited quantities of this timber are available; in 1950 over 600 tons
were exported, mostly unmixed with other timbers.

36. MERANTI, DARK RED

This is a dark red timber produced mainly by Shorea pauciflora, but
other dark red timbers of a similar structure and weight may be included
in this classification. It is synonymous with Borneo Mahogany, Dark Red
Philippine Mahogany or Tanguile. The weight at 15 per: cent moisture content
is from 40 to 45 lb. per cubic foot. It is considerably stronger than Light
Red Meranti and is not much inferior to Teak in its mechanical properties.

This timber works easily, holds its shape well, and takes a good polish.
It is an attractive wood for furniture, interior panelling, railway and motor
coach work, shop fittings, flooring, etc. Defects are less frequent than in
Light Red Meranti.

This timber is not available in large quantities but small consignments
are regularly exported mainly mixed with Light Red Meranti.

37. MERANTI, RED

The name, Red Meranti, includes all species of the genus Shorea that
produce a pale pink to light reddish-brown, comparatively soft, timber of
an average weight of about 35 lb. per cubic foot at 15 per cent moisture
content. This timber is essentially similar to Philippine Mahogany or Lauan,
and to Borneo Red Seraya. It is used locally for all general utility purposes
such as those to which Baltic pine would be applied in Europe, but it is
appreciably stronger than Baltic pine.

It is not durable in contact with the ground in the tropics, but is resistant
to fungal attack,

Supplies are readily available and over 11,000 tons were exported in
1950 chiefly as boards and planks, but including flooring strips.

38. MERANTI, WHITE

White Meranti is the trade name of the timber of a group of Shorea spp.
(section Antlzoslzorea). This timber is almost white when freshly sawn but
becomes yellow or buff-coloured when exposed; it is soft to moderately
hard and weighs from 35 to 57 lb. per cubic foot at 15 per cent moisture
content but the average is from 40 to 45 lb. Some of this timber is slightly

13

stronger than Teak, but the major part is from 10 to 15 per cent weaker.
It is similar to Selangan Kuning from Borneo.

This timber contains silica and is consequently somewhat difficult to
saw, but it may be readily peeled into veneers. It is very susceptible to
termite attack, but is resistant to fungi and is seldom attacked by wood
borers. It can be used for general building purposes, for flooring and plywood.

Supplies of sawn timber are not readily available, but small quantities
are. exported in mixed Light Hardwood consignments.

39. MERANTI, YELLOW V

This is a moderately hard and moderately heavy timber produced by the

Richetia group of Shorea spp. Its weight varies from 32 to 42 lb. per cubic

foot at 15 per cent moisture content. It is similar to Selangan Kacha from
Borneo and Philippine Yellow Lauan and its mechanical properties are more
or less equivalent to those· of Borneo White Seraya.

This timber is easy to work and, although readily attacked by termites.
it is resistant to fungal decay, but the sapwood is susceptible to invasion
by powder-post beetles. It seasons fairly rapidly without trouble and holds
its shape well. It can be used for general construction, flooring, joinery.
furniture parts, shop fittings, decking, railway rolling stock and motor body

work.
Supplies are restricted, but the quantities passing through the local

sawmills are increasing, and this timber is commonly present in mixed Light

Hardwood consignments.
40. MERSAWA

The seven or eight species of Anisoptera occurring in Malaya yield

timber known as Mersawa which is equivalent to Siamese Krabak. This is
• a pale yellow or pale yellow-brown wood weighing, on the average, about

38 to 40 lb. per cubic foot at 15 per cent moisture content. Its mechanical
properties are more or less equivalent to those of Red Meranti.

Mersawa can be worked easily but all edged tools must be sharpened
frequently. It is extremely slow in seasoning_under ordinary air-drying
conditions, and during this period it is susceptible to fungal attack. Never-
theless, when properly seasoned, Mersawa will malce good flooring and
indoor building construction, particularly as it may be readily stained or
painted. It has proved satisfactory for the manufacture of plywood.

Supplies are moderately abundant and in 1950 approximately 1,100 ton
of Mersawa, unmixed with other timbers, were exported. Mersawa is also
commonly exported in mixed consignments of Light Hardwoods.

41. NYATOH

This timber is produced by several species of Sapotacec, mainly from

the genera Palaquium and Payena. Its colour ranges from pink to red-brown,

and its weight from 33 to 52 lb. per cubic foot at 15 per cent moisture content.

but the majority of the timber weighs from 40 to 45 lb. per cubic foot

air-dry. It is fine and even textured and will take a good polish.
Most of the different species of Nyatoh can be sawn easily and can be

seasoned without serious degrade. They are susceptible to termite attack,

but are resistant to fungus and should be durable in most temperate

climates. The strength of Nyatoh varies, but it is generally as strong or

stronger than oak except in resistance to shock. Its nailing properties are

very satisfactory. .. . . . ..
Nyatoh is usually exported in mixed consignments, in which it is regarded

as one of the best timbers.

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•

42. PENARAHAN

All species of Myristica, Knema, and Horsfieldia yield this timber which

is pale yellow-brown often with a pink tinge. Its weight ranges from 24 to
46 lb. per cubic foot, the average being about 37 )b. per cubic foot at
15 per cent moisture content.

This timber is easy to work, it seasons quickly without degrade, and
will take a good finish. It is not durable in exposed positions, but is quite
well suited for joinery and general carpentry work.

Supplies are restricted, and small quantities are available for shipment
in mixed parcels.

43. PISANG-PISANG

The timber of all species of Annonacea is known as Pisang-pisang. The

timber is yellow-brown with either a pink or a greenish tinge, and invariably
with orange-brown silver figure on radial surfaces produced by the com-
paratively broad rays. The weight varies from 35 to 49 lb. per cubic foot at
15 per cent moisture content.

Pisang-pisang is not durable in exposed positions. Even in interior
situations it is liable to be affected by insect attack, and in damp situations
may suffer from stain and rot. The mechanical properties have not been
investigated but this timber is reported to be tough. Similar timber tested
in India places it in the same grade of strength as Light Red Meranti. It is
not at all a difficult timber to work, but sawn surfaces are inclined to be
woolly or rough.

Pisang-pisang is used for packing cases, and temporary building con-
struction; also for small household articles. It has been tried for matches
but is not very popular for this purpose. Supplies are comparatively small
and Pisang-pisang is not usually sold as a separate timber.

44. SENDOK-SENDOK

Only one species, Endospermum malaccense, yields this timber, which

weighs about 33 lb. per cubic foot at 15 per cent moisture content. The
sapwood and heartwood cannot be distinguished; both are bright yellow
with a greenish tinge, tending to become light brown on exposure.

The timber works easily and planes to a good finish. It should be
properly stacked in a well-ventilated shed as it is liable to 'blue stain',
but it does not develop serious seasoning defects if subjected to rapid drying.
It is about 10 per cent stronger than Scots pine, 5 per cent harder, but
appreciably less resistant to shock. It lasts well under cover and is not very
susceptible to attack by powder-post beetles. It can be treated very easily
with preservatives.

It is suitable for general indoor joinery, but is not available separately
in large quantities. It is commonly present in export consignments of Light
Hardwoods.

45. SEPETIR

A soft to moderately hard, light to moderately heavy timber, the product of

six species of Sindora. The weight varies from 33 to 49 lb. per cubic foot,

the average being about 42 at 15 per cent moisture content. The heartwood
of this timber is similar in colour to Walnut, but different species vary, some
being golden-brown and some a light to dark nut-brown. Some of the timber
has dark-coloured or black layers, which give rise to a very attractive figure
on flat-sawn surfaces. This figured timber makes very attractive furniture,
as it can be readily polished. Rotary cut veneers are also very handsome,
but are liable to split in drying. The timber is inclined to be difficult to work.

f

15

Restricted supplies are available and it would be difficult to supply
figured timber only. Unfigured material is included for export in mixed
consignments, mostly as planks and scantlings.

46. TERAP

Terap is the vernacular name of the timber of Artocarpus elasticus, but

it is also used to describe the group of timbers comprising all species of

Parartocarpus and Artocarpus except Artocarpus lanceifolius which is known

as Keledang. The timber is yellow-brown in colour mostly with a distinct
orange tinge, weathering to a rust-brown after prolonged exposure. The
average density is 36 lb. per cubic foot at 15 per cent moisture content,
but some of the timbers are very much lighter.

Terap is generally hard to saw, a characteristic which is usually attributed
to interlocked grain, but is more often than not due to 'tension wood'
which is prevalent in this timber. It is not durable being very liable to
fungal infection. It is useful for packing cases and general rough carpentry
work.

Supplies are restricted and small quantities of this timber, whenever
exported, are in mixed consignments of Light Hardwoods.

47. TERENTANG

Three species of Campnosperma produce this timber, which has an

average weight of 27 lb. per cubic foot at 15 per cent moisture content. The
timber is a greyish salmon-pink speckled by dark-coloured rays; it has a
fine and even texture with a lustrous appearance.

Considering its light weight, this timber does not work easily and has

a blunting effect on all sharp-edged tools. If properly stacked, it seasons

rapidly without degrade, but it is somewhat liable to stain. It is not durable
in exposed positions, but will absorb preservatives fairly readily. It is
some 10 to 15 per cent weaker than Scots pine in bending and compression
and considerably less tough. It is used locally for packing cases, etc., and
is particularly favoured for the manufacture of matches and match boxes.
It peels quite well.

Supplies are limited and it would be difficult to arrange for separate
consignments, but it is commonly present in mixed parcels of Light Hard-
woods.