Tree harvesting practices in Malaysia is largely in dipterocarp tree species, but it is projected that by 2010, most of the primary production forests would be
completely exploited, noted Bernama. The secondary
rotation forests that would need to be tapped into will
contain many lesser known or used species (LUS) that
have not been previously utilized.
The Forest Research Institute of Malaysia (FRIM)
reported that in Peninsular Malaysia alone, there are 2,650
tree species, of which 890 can be used for their wood. Yet,
50 of these species are well known in the market, while
the rest are traded as mixed hardwoods. Since there is a
huge potential for LUS but little has been done to promote
them, FRIM will likely review its research on LUS and
may further explore the issue at its upcoming management
of second forest rotation seminar in December 2007. |
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