(From left) Dennis, Snowdan, Abdul Karim, Rentap and Sharzede show thumbs-up for the launch of Rays 2025.
KUCHING (March 21): Sarawak will once again host the Rainforest Youth Summit (Rays) 2025, running from June 18 to 20.
This event is set to bring together Asean youths to drive sustainability and climate action.
Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Sarawak Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah officiated at the programme’s launch in Borneo Cultures Museum here.
Themed ‘Living Landscapes: Charting a Sustainable Future’, the summit will gather young changemakers, environmental leaders, and indigenous voices to collaborate on building a greener, more equitable world.
“The summit is set to take place at the Hikmah Exchange Event Centre and on the final day at the Sarawak Cultural Village, providing a transformative platform for dialogue, skill-building, and meaningful action,” said Abdul Karim in his speech.
More than 15 speakers from 12 countries will share their insights on key themes, including biodiversity preservation, rainforest wisdom, climate adaptation, youth advocacy, and sustainable development.
Among them are global sustainability champions like Zoya Miari, Prachi Shevgaonkar, Mitzi Jonelle Tan, and Larissa Crawford, who have made waves in environmental activism and social impact.
They will also be joined by regional voices including Joshua Belayan, a passionate advocate for the indigenous communities, and Dr Ahmad Zafir Abdul Wahab, a leading conservation biologist dedicated to preserving Malaysia’s rich biodiversity.
Beyond inspiring conversations and keynote sessions, hands-on workshops will equip young participants with practical solutions and real-world strategies to become agents of change.
The summit will also culminate in a special cultural experience at the Rainforest World Music Festival (RWMF) 2025, allowing participants to immerse themselves in Sarawak’s vibrant arts and cultural scene.
“From skill-building sessions to advocacy training, Rays 2025 will turn ideas into action.
“Through cultural showcases, we will celebrate Sarawak’s vibrant heritage, which is a reminder that culture is not just our identity but also a powerful tool for connection,” added Abdul Karim.
With over 300 participants confirmed, including youth delegates from across Asean, Rays 2025 reflects a growing commitment to youth-led environmental initiatives.
To encourage wider participation, organisers have introduced special registration tiers.
Asean youth can register at RM300, returning alumni at RM250, group participants at RM230 per person, and international delegates outside Asean at RM500.
The fees include access to workshops, plenary sessions, networking events, and a special entry to the RWMF 2025.
In this regard, Abdul Karim encouraged young leaders from Sarawak, Malaysia, and around the world to join this upcoming event.
“Be part of this event to add your voice, passion, and vision to the conversations that will shape our world.
“Together, let us chart a path towards a future where our landscapes, rainforests, rivers, and communities thrive in harmony,” he added.
Also present were the deputy ministers Datuk Snowdan Lawan and Datuk Gerald Rentap Jabu (Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development), Sarawak Tourism Board chairman Datuk Dennis Ngau, and STB chief executive officer Sharzede Salleh Askor.
For more information, go to www.rainforestyouthsummit.com.
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