The Endau-Rompin area, covering an estimated area of 870 sq. Km, straddling the boundary between between Johor and Pahang, is one of the few remaining lowland forest in Peninsular Malaysia. It encompasses the watershed of the Endau and Rompin rivers from which it derives its name. A scientific expedition carried out in 1985-1986 revealed that this lush and relatively undisturbed area contains a wealth a unique flora and fauna.

Many unique and endemic varieties of plants have been discovered within the centuries-old forest, such as the magnificent fan palm (Endau ensis), climbing bamboo (Rhopa loblaste) and the slender-stemmed walking stick palm (Phychorapis singaporeansis) with its delicate feather-like leaf fronds. Pitcher plants, toadstolls and orchids also grace the forest floor. Moths and butterflies of every shape and hue can also be found flitting among the verdant foliage.

The forest is also home to the Sumatran rhinoceros and its reputedly rich and abundant wild-life include tigers, wildboars, elephants, tapir, deer and mousedeers. The unpolluted rivers abound with an astounding variety of fish easily observed through the clear waters. Hornbills and argus pheasants have also been sighted within the dense greenery.

A visit to his area promises a rare and fascinating insight of life in the Malaysian lowland forest.

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Much of the scientific research into tongkat ali has been done by Chinese scientists, and even though the plant grows in Malaysia and Indonesia, the most intensive users in both countries are probably the local Chinese.