Identification And Utilization Of Lesser-Known Commercial Timbers In Peninsular Malaysia 11: Ngilas, Nipis Kulit, Nyireh And Otak Udang

Four more lesser-known timbers (LKT) are introduced and they are (a) Ngilas (Parastemon urophyllus), (b) Nipis kulit (Memecylon spp.), (c) Nyireh (Xylocarpus spp.) and (d) Otak udang (Buchanania spp.). Ngilas is the Sarawakian name for the tree and timber of Parastemon urophyllus and in Peninsular Malaysia, the tree and timber is known as Nyalas. Ngilas is a monospecific, small to medium-sized tree occurring in lowland, swamps and secondary forest. The timber is very hard and heavy and it is suitable for most heavy-duty purposes such as flooring, construction, tool handles and bridges. Nipis kulit is a small to medium-sized tree found growing gregariously in the lower part of the canopy of primary lowland to montane forest and sometimes, in peat swamp forest. The stem of the tree is usually not in good form and thus, restricts the utilization of the timber to some extent. Nyireh, is a small to medium-sized tree with straight and cylindrical bole, sometimes crooked. The trees are found around the coast in mangrove swamps, beaches and coastal woodlands. It is a favourite timber used by the native in Carey Island, Selangor for their carving works. Otak udang is a small to medium-sized tree and can be found throughout Peninsular Malaysia on lowlying undulating areas, hill, river banks, sandy and rocky coasts. The timber is fairly light and it is suitable for light utility purposes such as picture frames, laminated structures, turneries etc.