Implications of new biostratigraphic data for stratigraphic correlation of the Permian and Triassic in Peninsular Malaysia

Abstract

Recent biostratigraphic work necessitates revision of the ages of several Permo-Triassic formations and units within Peninsular Malaysia. The Chuping Limestone in Perlis is now known to extend up to the Late Triassic. Cherts which have been assigned to the Semanggol Formation in Kedah have various ages ranging from Lower Permian to Upper Triassic. This extended age range for these cherts has implications for regional Permian palaeogeography and tectonics. Newly determined Permian ages of clasts in melange and Lower and Upper Permian ages of bedded cherts along the Raub-Bentong suture zone suggest a latest Permian or Triassic closure of the Palaeo-Tethys in this region. The presence of previously unknown tracts of Lower Triassic limestones in the Central Belt (Jerus Limestone) and subsurface Triassic limestones in the basement of the Malay basin, offshore Terengganu also have regional stratigraphic and tectonic implications. A correlation chart for sedimentary rock units in Peninsular Malaysia, incorporating the new biostratigraphic data is presented.