USE OF SMALL SECTIONS FOR MODERN TIMBER STRUCTURES

Malaysia is known for its greenery with a green cover of more than 60%; relatively high by any international standards. Traditionally, the country is famous for its tropical forest products export and currently one of the major producing countries in the world. With the increasing awareness on environmental issues particularly, the threat posed by global warming, Malaysia has recently embarked on new policies and guidelines regarding sustainable management of our forests as well as moving towards development of more plantation forests in the country. However, one of the greatest challenges encountered is the long gestation period for the latter investment and low rate of return associated with it. Besides current incentives provided by the government which includes tax relief, another means to mitigate the problem is through the development of more value-added products from small log sections derived from these plantations. This paper deals with the possible use of small tropical hardwood cross-sections for erecting building elements. Gluedlaminated boards will be explored as a means to replace massive timber, concrete and steel beams. Composite concretetimber floors, as well as trusses and shell structures to cover large roofing areas will also be presented. In conclusions, sustainable timber constructions are possible provided there is cooperation between wood-related partners, from the forest manager to the building contractor. Maintain the quality of the product throughout its different transformations is essential. A quality assurance scheme shall be endorsed to guarantee the characteristics of the end product will enhance confidence of potential clients.