KUCHING: The organisation of the Rainforest Youth Summit (RAYS) 2026 is timely in continuing to strengthen the role of the youth as the main driver in the global sustainability agenda, in line with efforts to build an inclusive, balanced and environmentally responsible future.

Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah said that RAYS 2026 serves as an important platform in bringing together youth voices from various backgrounds to discuss issues related to climate change, biodiversity conservation and sustainable development.

According to him, an approach that combines various perspectives including traditional knowledge, modern science, public policy and youth innovation is crucial in dealing with today's global challenges.

"Sustainability cannot be driven through one approach alone. It requires the cooperation of various parties including the community, government, industry and the young generation," he said when officiating the opening ceremony of RAYS 2026 in Kuching on Wednesday.

In the meantime, he emphasised that Sarawak as the host offers a unique context to the discussion of sustainability due to its richness in biodiversity as well as its continued commitment to environmental conservation.

He explained that approximately 62 per cent of the state's area is still under forest cover, in addition to the implementation of various initiatives such as the campaign to plant 100 million trees, peatland conservation and ecosystem restoration efforts.

RAYS 2026 brings together youth participation from all over Malaysia, the ASEAN region and internationally, with content including dialogue sessions, workshops, learning laboratories as well as special forums such as the Planet Futures Forum which provides exposure to the decision-making process related to climate issues.

In addition, the youth declaration produced through this summit is expected to be an important reference for stakeholders in formulating future policies and actions.

Dato Sri Abdul Karim expressed hope that RAYS 2026 will be the starting point for a new collaboration network, in addition to sparking a long-term commitment among the youth to continue driving change.

Also present were Deputy Ministers of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Datuk Sebastian Ting Chiew Yew and Datuk Snowdan Lawan, Deputy Minister for Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development Datuk Gerald Rentap Jabu, Telang Usan Assemblyman Dato Dennis Ngau and other dignitaries. -UKASnews