LANGKAWI: More than 100 young delegates from across Asean gathered in Langkawi for the Asean Children and Youth Climate Summit 2025, presenting their recommendations to regional leaders on how to tackle climate change.
The summit, held in conjunction with the 18th Asean Ministerial Meeting on Environment (AMME) at Aloft Langkawi Hotel, was co-organised by Unicef and the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability (NRES).
The delegates, aged 15 to 25, from Asean countries participated, underscoring the event’s success.
The Natural Resources and Environment Board (NREB) Sarawak participated as one of the summit hosts.
The highlight was the drafting of the Asean Children and Youth Climate Declaration, formally delivered during AMME proceedings on Sept 4.
The document called for children’s rights to be placed at the centre of climate action and for governments to involve youth directly in shaping strategies for a sustainable future.
The summit, themed “Empowering Asean Youth for a Climate–Resilient Future”, included forums, workshops, and interactive sessions, where youth leaders discussed solutions to address the impacts of climate change, while also learning to strengthen advocacy and communication skills.
Delegates visited Kilim Geoforest Park on Sept 3 to study the ecological role of mangroves as natural coastal barriers and habitats for endangered species, and were briefed on Malaysia’s efforts to secure Unesco Global Geopark status for Langkawi.
NREB Sarawak, working with Youths United for Earth (YUFE), facilitated workshops that highlighted how conservation can integrate social, economic, and environmental perspectives.
Officers also guided youth discussions on government–community collaboration in climate initiatives.
