Rainforest Youth Summit 2026 returns to Kuching, uniting 700 youth for climate action

KUCHING (Feb 26): The Rainforest Youth Summit 2026 (RAYS 2026), themed “Youth: Many Ways, One Planet”, will return for its third edition from June 24 to 26 in Kuching, bringing together some 700 youth participants from the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean) countries.

Building on the success of its previous editions, which hosted 1,700 participants, over 50 speakers and representatives from 80 organisations across 37 countries, RAYS continues to mobilise the next generation in advancing sustainable and inclusive climate action.

Organised and funded by the Sarawak government, and endorsed by Asean, the Pacific Asia Travel Association (Pata) and United Nations (UN) Tourism; the summit will feature 17 speakers from Sarawak, Peninsular Malaysia and the international community, including representatives from Panama, the United Kingdom, the United States and Kenya.

Held in a region globally recognised for its ecological value, the summit grounds Borneo’s rich rainforests and peatland ecosystems – among the world’s most significant natural carbon reservoirs.

“This makes Kuching a meaningful setting for youth-led conversations on climate action, governance and the future of shared planetary stewardship,” said Sarawak Tourism Board (STB) in a statement.

According to STB, the 2026 programme will include keynote dialogues, youth-led labs, policy-focused sessions and curated site visits showcasing Sarawak’s protected rainforest areas and urban culture.

Delegates will also attend the opening day of the Rainforest World Music Festival 2026, highlighting the intersection of community, heritage and conservation within Sarawak’s responsible tourism model.

A key edition this year is the “Planet Futures Forum”, an immersive climate simulation that places participants in real-world governance scenarios involving negotiation and collective decision-making, culminating in a negotiated RAYS Youth Declaration reflecting environmental, social, and economic priorities.

Outcomes from the Planet Futures Forum will extend into the newly launched 12-month RAYS Fellowship Programme, which will bring together 10 to 15 young leaders to engage in applied governance work, guided online learning and collaborative cohort projects focused on collective climate action.

Registration for RAYS 2026 is now open, with early bird passes available until March 15 via the official website.

Kuching based institutions or organisations interested in sending a group delegation of over 20 persons are advised to contact via [email protected].

Travel, accommodation and personal expenses are not included.

To support inclusive participation, applications for the RAYS Asean Access Fund are also open.

Selected delegates will receive partial support for flight and accommodation costs, prioritised according to World Bank country income classifications.

“Grounded in the belief that meaningful participation should not be limited by geography, background or economic circumstance, the RAYS Asean Access Fund supports applicants who demonstrate strong motivation, leadership potential and alignment with the summit’s values,” said STB.

Interested candidates are encouraged to apply at website www.rainforestyouthsummit.com.

Applications close on March 30. Further details are available at the official RAYS website and social media platforms.