The book "Melastoma in Peninsular Malaysia and Singapore: Taxonomy, Biology and Uses" provides a comprehensive revision of the genus Melastoma in the region, recognizing nine species and one new variety, and describing putative natural hybrids. The genus consists of free-flowering shrubs and small trees found in disturbed, high-light habitats like forest fringes. The work details their taxonomy, biology, and ethnobotanical uses, including the widespread use of Melastoma malabathricum in traditional medicine for various ailments and its diverse pharmacological properties. (Biology/Botany)