Potential Alternatives for Ramin Timber

Ramin is a popular material for various types of timber products. However, forest degradation and extensive habitat loss have severely affected the wild population of the species. Hence, majority of the species are now categorised as threatened. The international trade of ramin is currently regulated by the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora, or CITES. As a timber-producing country, the best strategy for conservation of timber species in Malaysia is to promote alternative materials. This article presents some potential alternatives for ramin timber to encourage research and product development, which ultimately helps to alleviate the market pressure on depleting timber species.