Sustainable Utilisation of Forest Plant Resources by the Bateq and Semoq Beri Sub-Tribes in Kelantan and Terengganu States of Peninsular Malaysia

The Central Forest Spine (CFS) complex in Peninsular Malaysia supports two indigenous sub-tribes — the Semoq Beri and Bateq. Opportunistic ethnobotanical fieldwork and observation were conducted to document the utilisation of forest plant resources by these two tribes. More than 30 species of plants, which are used as food, ornament, herbs, alternative water source and craft, were documented. The grooming practice using plant parts is unique to the Bateq and Semoq Beri sub-tribes. Plant tubers (ubi in Malay) should be examined further for food security and conservation purposes. The consumption practices by the Orang Asli in the tropical rain forest of Kelantan and Terengganu for their livelihood are ecologically sustainable.