meranti is more common in SEA, and on janka rating maybe similar hardness to teak and cedar i think. i'm kinda new to this, I just started with woodwork last year after my home was flooded and it cost 10% the price to build on your own so i decided to go with it and ended up loving it! but its basic stuff really- some kitchen replacements, a garden bench, flipped a chest drawer. your garden deck is gorgeous!! I can't believe you built the whole thing! Following you both for tips and tricks!