FAQ

What is RAYS?

RAYS stands for the Rainforest Youth Summit. It is an annual summit aimed at empowering young leaders, fostering environmental stewardship, and promoting sustainability in rainforest regions worldwide.

What language will the summit be conducted in, and will interpretation services be provided?

The summit will be conducted in English, and interpretation services will not be provided at this time. All sessions, presentations, and discussion will take place in English.

What health and safety measures will be in place?

The safety and well-being of our participants are our highest priority. We will adhere to all local health guidelines and implement the necessary safety measures to ensure a secure, inclusive, and enjoyable summit experience for all attendees. Travellers arriving from countries with yellow fever must present a valid Yellow Fever vaccination certificate upon arrival. For more information, visit: https://www.moh.gov.my/en/core/health-information/yellow-fever

What is the dress code for the summit?

Smart casual – with a touch of you. Feel free to wear something that makes you feel comfortable, confident, and authentic, whether that’s a crisp shirt, cultural attire, bold accessories, or sneakers with flair. Traditional dress is always welcome and celebrated.

What meals are included during the summit?

Meals within the summit will be provided as part of your summit ticket.

Transportation:

You may get around Kuching using Grab or other e-hailing services. Carpooling is encouraged as a convenient and sustainable way to travel during the summit.

What should I know about expenses?

E-wallets and all major credit cards are widely accepted. We recommend that attendees plan ahead for their personal expenses.

What should I know about local currency?

The local currency in Malaysia is the Malaysian Ringgit (MYR).

Is drinking water provided?

Water refill stations will be available in the summit venue. Please bring your own reusable water bottle.

What documents do I need to enter Malaysia?

- Foreign visitors must register MDAC within 3 days before arrival. Please visit: https://imigresen-online.imi.gov.my/mdac/main

- Visa requirements vary by nationality. Please visit: https://www.imi.gov.my

What is the Rainforest World Music Festival (RWMF)?

Held annually at the Sarawak Cultural Village, the Rainforest World Music Festival (RWMF) is a global celebration of traditional, fusion, and world music. Expect workshops, performances, local crafts, and vibrant rainforest vibes. For more information, visit: https://rwmf.net

How can I stay updated on RAYS news and announcements?

Stay updated on RAYS news and announcements by subscribing to our newsletter. Please also visit our website regularly for the latest information.

You can follow us on social media platform for regular updates:

Instagram: @raysummitofficial

Tiktok: @raysummitofficial

Linkedin: Rainforest Youth Summit

Youtube: @raysummitofficial

What is the Planet Futures Forum (PFF)?

It is a collaborative climate simulation where youth step into experiencing how real-life climate decisions are shaped.

What is the objective of PFF?

PFF builds youth capacity in design thinking, negotiation, and collective decision-making while producing the RAYS Youth Declaration.

How does the forum connect to the Summit theme?

It reflects “Youth: Many Ways, One Planet” through a Two-Eyed Seeing approach, bringing together the strengths of Indigenous knowledge and Western frameworks. This approach allows climate challenges to be considered from multiple perspectives while working toward shared solutions for one planet.

What makes this different from a regular panel discussion?

PFF goes beyond listening. It offers a hands-on experience where participants engage through dialogue, collaboration, and negotiation while working together to develop proposals, recommendations, and demands.

Will there be any preparation before the Summit?

Yes. A Pre-Summit briefing will be held to introduce the PFF structure, negotiation process, and key skills needed to participate effectively in the forum.

Do I need prior climate policy experience to participate?

No prior experience is needed. PFF is designed for anyone passionate about climate issues, regardless of background. Through mentorship, applied skills and dialogue workshops, and collaborative sessions, you will gain the knowledge to contribute meaningfully towards the RAYS Youth Declaration.

What roles are available and how are they selected?

PFF offers participants the opportunity to take on the role of an Active Negotiator or Observer, each contributing in different ways to shaping the negotiation process and outcomes. Role and bloc selection takes place during the Pathway Clinic & Role Selection session on the first day of the Summit, allowing you to choose the pathway that best aligns with your interests and strengths. Find out more information here.

Can I change my role or bloc after selecting one?

Adjustments may be possible depending on availability and programme coordination.

What happens if I choose not to join PFF?

Delegates who do not join the forum can still attend the Negotiation Congress as Constituents, where they can observe the negotiations and take part in the voting process.

How does participation benefit me personally?

Participants gain practical experience in:

1. Expert Mentorship: Access to specialised workshops and guidance from industry leaders.

2. Strategic Networking: Meaningful connections with a diverse network of young climate professionals.

3. Public Platform: Opportunities to publish climate demands and solutions to a global audience.

4. Official Credentialing: A formal certification awarded upon successful completion.

Will the outcomes of PFF have continuity after the Summit?

Yes. The preliminary demands and recommendations captured in the RAYS Youth Declaration continue through the Fellowship Program, where selected initiatives receive guidance and funding to support ongoing implementation and impact.

Who can be part of the RAYS Fellowship?

The Fellowship is open to young people committed to climate justice and collective leadership. You might be: - a student organiser- a community volunteer- early in your climate journey- already leading and ready to go deeper You do not need:- A perfect CV - Institutional backing- Years of experience - A leadership title

How can I be a part of the RAYS Fellowship?

Application for the RAYS Youth Fellowship will be opening during the RAYS Summit 2026. Further details on the fellowship programme will be announced via RAYS website.

How long does the Fellowship run?

The Fellowship is a 12-month post-summit leadership incubator. It is also a monthly commitment of 6-8 hours for online workshops and mentorship sessions.

What is the purpose of the Fellowship

It enables youth participation in decision-making structures and action-led implementation beyond the Summit.

How many fellows will be chosen for the RAYS Fellowship?

The Fellowship Programme enables 10 to 15 youth fellows to exercise leadership by participating in real decision-making processes and action-led community projects.

Are there funded initiatives under the Fellowship?

Yes, the Fellowship will give seed funding of RM 10,000.00 to 2-3 selected fellows.

When does the Fellowship officially begin and end?

The Fellowship will begin after RAYS 2026. It will be a 12 month programme cycle until RAYS 2027.

Can I apply if I do not have prior governance experience?

This fellowship is inclusive of those who may not have previously had access to structured climate governance spaces. What matters most is your willingness to learn, collaborate and contribute.

Is the Fellowship separate from the Summit?

The Fellowship is a post-Summit leadership incubator that continues beyond the Summit itself.

What is the Delegate Speaker Pathway?

It is an opportunity for summit delegates to go beyond attending and share their ideas, experiences, and stories during the Summit.

Who is eligible to apply as a Delegate Speaker?

The opportunity is open to all RAYS 2026 Summit ticket holders

How do I apply to become a Delegate Speaker?

You may indicate your interest during the Summit registration.

Do I need to be a professional speaker to apply?

No. You do not need to be a professional speaker. What matters is the substance and value of your experience. Selected delegate speakers will be provided with public speaking support, if required.

What kind of experiences are suitable for sharing?

Experience may include leading a community initiative, working on a meaningful project, or other impactful youth-led efforts.

What is the purpose of the Delegate Speaker pathway?

It provides a platform for delegates to contribute actively and share their perspective during the summit.

Is this separate from attending the Summit?

No. The Delegate Speaker pathway is an extension of participation for registered delegates who wish to take on a more active role.

How will Delegate Speakers be selected?

Submissions will be reviewed based on the relevance and substance of the ideas, experiences, and stories shared.

What is the benefit of becoming a Delegate Speaker?

It provides a platform to amplify your work, increase its visibility, and contribute more actively to the regional youth dialogue at RAYS 2026.

Is there an additional fee to become a Delegate Speaker?

No, The Delegate Speaker pathway is open to all Summit ticket holders at no extra cost.

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