Belian is one of the most renowned timbers of Borneo and Indonesia. It has been favoured both for local use and the export trade. The wood is exceptionally hard and heavy, with density ranging from 835-1185 kg.m3 (52-74lb/ft3) air dry. The sapwood is bright yellow when fresh and darkens on exposure and sharply defined from the heartwood, which is light brown to almost bright yellow when fresh and darkens on exposure to deep reddish brown, becoming very dark brown or almost black with age. The timber is very strong. Texture is moderately fine to fine and even with grains fairly straight or shallowly interlocked. The timber is easy to work despite its high density and produces a smooth and often lustrous surface. The wood is one of the most durable in the world and the heartwood is extremely resistant to preservative treatment.

Distribution:

It is generally found in lowland areas of primary forest 5-400 m, in flat or sloping terrain, and also occurs in old secondary forest of the Asian region.

Application and Uses:

Its commercial uses include:

1. Heavy construction
2. Marine work, boat building
3. Printing blocks
4. Industrial flooring and roofing
5. Furniture
6. Decking