Plants/ Contents

Bamboos

Wong Khoon Meng

Bamboos form a distinct subfamily of the grasses and comprise an estimated 1,200-1,500 species worldwide. In Malaysia, 80 species, including native and introduced bamboos, are found. They are instantly recognizable and yet diverse in structure and behaviour. Used both as a raw material and an ornamental, bamboos are also important in the ecology of natural and modified landscapes. They have long been associated with a traditional and rural Malaysian lifestyle, but are gaining popularity in modern industries, such as furniture making.

  • Information in the full article includes
  • Growth and flowering habit
  • Rare rainforest bamboos
  • Uses
Angklung

Angklung, a traditional Malay musical instrument made from hollow bamboo culms connected by bamboo rods.