Top 5 Tropical Malaysian Timbers You’ve Probably Never Considered — But Should

When it comes to hardwood, names like Chengal or Merbau often steal the spotlight. But Malaysia’s tropical forests offer far more than just the famous few.

If you’re a builder, architect, furniture maker, or timber importer looking for affordable, sustainable, and underused high-quality hardwood, this list is for you.

At Kilang Papan PGP, we’ve worked with dozens of local hardwood species — and we’ve seen firsthand how some lesser-known Malaysian timbers deliver surprising strength, stability, and beauty.

Let’s explore 5 timber species that deserve more attention on the global stage:

Perfect for: Roof trusses, furniture, interior flooring

Mengkulang is a medium to heavy hardwood with excellent workability, making it ideal for both construction and furniture applications. It offers structural reliability similar to more expensive options like Meranti or Kapur.

• Density: 625–895 kg/m³

• Workability: Easy to machine and nail

• Sustainability: Widely available, PEFC-sourced

• Cost advantage: Often 30–40% cheaper than premium hardwoods

Perfect for: Joinery, cabinetry, custom furniture

Keledang has a unique golden-brown tone with fine, uniform texture. It machines well and dries efficiently — making it a favorite among craftsmen who want workability without compromising strength.

• Aesthetic: Visually appealing with subtle figure

• Drying performance: Kiln-dries with minimal warping

• Eco-friendly: Less exploited than major species

Ideal for high-end interior work with a sustainable edge

Perfect for: Decking, heavy-duty structures, outdoor beams

Bitis is one of the most underutilized heavy hardwoods in Malaysia. When treated properly (e.g., CCA pressure treatment), it performs exceptionally in tough outdoor conditions — much like Balau or Chengal.

• Density: Often >1000 kg/m³

• Durability: Excellent with proper treatment

• Application: Bridges, jetties, exposed beams

• Alternative to: Balau or Chengal for heavy applications

Perfect for: Paneling, stairs, furniture, molding

Lightweight but stable, Kembang Semangkuk is a favorite for decorative interiors. It offers a clean, uniform grain that takes stain and finish beautifully — often used as a cost-effective alternative to Nyatoh or imported species.

• Density: 465–625 kg/m³

• Machinability: Excellent

• Stability: Good with kiln drying

• Use case: Ideal for visual applications without load-bearing

Underrated in export markets — high value for cost

Perfect for: General construction, beams, posts, joinery

Kelat is a tough and dense hardwood that performs well in structural roles. Though not as popular as Kapur or Kempas, it’s readily available, less expensive, and with good load-bearing properties when kiln-dried.

• Workability: Acceptable with proper tools

• Durability: Good with preservation

• Sustainability: Less overharvested, PEFC options available

Why These Timbers Deserve Global Recognition

By exploring alternative tropical species like Mengkulang, Keledang, and Bitis, you get:

• Lower cost per m³
• Reliable mechanical properties
• Sustainable forest sourcing
• Diversification away from overharvested species

At PGP Group, we ensure that even these lesser-known timbers are:

• PEFC-certified

• Kiln-dried and CCA-treated for performance (optional add-on)

• Graded and ready for export

Final Thought: Don’t Just Follow Trends — Discover Timber with Potential

Famous hardwoods will always have their place — but if you're sourcing wood for your next export shipment, resort project, or design build, consider looking beyond the usual names.

These 5 Malaysian hardwoods offer the strength, stability, and sustainability you need — often at a fraction of the cost.

Contact PGP Group for:

• Free consultation on timber selection

• Custom kiln drying and CCA treatment

• Bulk timber supply