Exotic tree species in commercial plantations in Sabah, Malaysia
1987
Tan, K.C. (Sabah Softwoods Sdn. Bhd., Tawau (Malaysia))
Plantations of exotic species were established beginning 1974 by Sabah Softwoods Sdn. Bhd. in the state of Sabah, Malaysia. The performance of the various hardwood species namely Acacia mangium, Eucalyptus deglupta, Gmelina arborea and Paraserianthes falcataria in terms of growth and form characteristics, volume increments and pests and disease problems is discussed. Economic analysis shows that growing trees on a commercial scale can be profitable. Data base indicates that with the exception of P. falcataria, the wood of which is too light, it is best to consider managing the present plantations primarily for pulpwood production. P. falcataria is currently being exported in the log form. High establishment and tending costs and poor survival have resulted in Pinus caribaea var. Hondurensis being phased out early in the project. The performance of E. deglupta has been disappointing in general. The prospects of yield increase in the near future is good, with further research efforts. The tree improvement program has already seen a marked improvement in the form and branching characteristics of G. arborea in Sabah making the species more attractive to grow in plantations.
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