It is named for Kapit in Malaysia's Sarawak state.

[3] Payena kapitensis grows up to 35 metres (110 ft) tall with a trunk diameter of up to 45 cm (20 in).

[3] Payena kapitensis is endemic to Borneo, where it is known only from Sarawak.

[1][3] Payena kapitensis has been assessed as critically endangered on the IUCN Red List.

It is at risk from logging and conversion of land for palm oil plantations.