Malaysian states are working together on a plantation timber project which is expected to generate some M$2bn annually.
The Plantation Industries and Commodities Ministry is working with Sarawak, Sabah, Johor, Terengganu and Pahang on the project, which could open up 350,000ha of forest plantations.
The states, which have allocated land for planting, want to harvest at least 25,000ha of re-afforested land annually, with trees taking 12-15 years to mature.
Rubber-latex timber is one species being considered for its ability to make high-quality furniture for the domestic and international markets.
