It was a timber discovery with a difference. Four large panels featured the progress of Malaysia’s timber industry and its history in graphic terms when the Malaysian Timber Industry Board (MTIB) celebrated its 35th anniversary recently.

MTIB turned to the creative talent of Limkokwing University of Creative Technology to produce the panels for display at Hotel Istana on July 28. The aim was to create greater public awareness of Malaysia’s natural wealth in the form of timber.

The university and MTIB combined forces in doing the research before the panels were produced. Then came the design challenge which was handled by Limkokwing students.

Under the theme, 35 Years with the Timber Industry, the first two panels highlighted the board’s milestones achieved in 35 years. The second panel featured the fundamental facts of Malaysian timber.

The third and fourth panels were double-sided, each touching on the usage of timber, the application of bio-composites, timber’s sustainability efforts and research and development undertaken by MTIB.

MTIB is currently promoting the market for bio-composites, which are materials formed by a matrix (resin) and reinforced with natural fibres, usually derived from plants or cellulose. They are often moulded to the structures of the materials involved, strengthening the properties of the matrix but are still bio-compatible.

Some of the advantages of using the recycled materials are environmental protection at a time when oil prices are soaring. They are used for scaffolds, countertops, floors, walls and furniture.