KUCHING: The Rainforest Youth Summit (RAYS) 2025 will spotlight Sarawak's commitment to championing sustainability and environmental stewardship, says Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah.
The state Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Minister said this aligned with Malaysia's role as the Asean chair this year and its priorities of collaboration, cultural exchange and regional unity.
"RAYS 2025 is part of the Asean calendar of events this year.
"We are expecting 600 to 1,000 participants from across Asean and around the world," he told reporters after launching the summit here on Thursday (March 20).
Abdul Karim said the summit aimed to inculcate love and care for the planet among youths, especially potential leaders of the future.
He said young leaders in their 20s and 30s would share their views and ideas about conservation and sustainability at the summit.
"We are bringing in global speakers who are passionate about environmental conservation and looking after the earth.
"It will also be an opportunity for networking among the participants," he said.
Themed "Living Landscapes: Charting a Sustainable Future", RAYS 2025 will take place on June 18-20 at Hikmah Exchange Event Centre here.
To date, over 300 delegates from Asean have confirmed their participation, along with 15 speakers from 12 countries.
They include Palestinian-Ukrainian peace ambassador Zoya Miari, climate innovator Prachi Shevgaonkar from India, international spokesperson of Youth Advocates for Climate Action Philippines Mitzi Jonelle Tan and indigenous, anti-racism and climate justice researcher Larissa Crawford.
Abdul Karim said RAYS 2025 will also focus on action, with hands-on workshops, skills-building sessions and advocacy training.
"This will provide practical solutions and real-world strategies that empower youths to become agents of change," he said.
A torch ceremony will also take place, symbolising the summit’s spirit of unity, resilience and hope.
