The Standard Malaysian Name for the timber of Pentace spp. (Tiliaceae). Vernacular names applied include balong ayam (Peninsular Malaysia), baru (Sarawak), janda baik (Peninsular Malaysia), kebal ayam (Peninsular Malaysia), kempayang hantu (Peninsular Malaysia), melunak (Peninsular Malaysia) with various epithets, pinang baik (Peninsular Malaysia) and takalis (Sabah) with various epithets.
Uses :
The timber is suitable for interior finishing, decorative works, panelling, mouldings, superior joinery, cabinet making, furniture, flooring, ornamental items, joists, railway sleepers, plywood, staircase (apron lining, carriages, riser, stringer, tread, bullnose, round end and winder), pallets (expendable and permanent light duty types) and other light construction. There is a suggestion that this timber will make good diving boards. In Burma, similar timber is sold under the name of 'Burma Mahogany' or 'Thitka' and is a very popular wood for high class furniture.
