Identification and utilization of lesser-known commercial timbers in Peninsular Malaysia. 4. Kelempayan, Melembu, Membuloh and Mempari

This is the fourth of the series to introduce lesser-known commercial limbers (LKCT) to the users of timbers in general and to the quality control personnel, timber graders, timber inspectors and those involve in the purchase of log/timber in particular. The shortage of the more popular commercial timbers coupled with their high price has resulted in a wider use of the LKCT. However, to ensure that the consumers of limber know what they are using, correct identification of the timber is essential. By knowing the exact identity of the timber, their properties can then be easily determined through literature search or referred to the relevant authority for advice.

This article touches on four LKCT with three of them classified as light-coloured timbers with low density i.e. Kelempayan, Melembu and Membuloh. The fourth timber species, i.e. Mempari is a light yellow timber when fresh, darkening on exposure to darker shade. The timber of Kelempayan is white with coarse surfaces due to the presence of large vessels. As the timber is soft and light, its uses are confined to light- weight purposes like picture frames, moulding, skirting, etc. Melembu is a very light and soft timber in which its uses are very similar to that of Kelempayan. Quarter-sawn material is likely to give rise to vaguesilver grain figure, as there is very little contrast in colour between rays and the background fibre tissues. Membuloh is a light to medium density timber but its uses are similar to that of Kelempayan and Melembu. This timber also possesses large rays which give rise to silver grain figure on radial or quarter-sawn surface. Mempari is light to medium and the timber is best suited to use for decorative purposes especially on flat-sawn surface due to the presence of broad parenchyma layers giving rise to growth rings figure. The identification and uses of the four timbers mentioned are described below.