Registrations for Toyota Eco Youth 2025 open

UMW Toyota Motor (UMWT) has announced that registration for the 24^th edition of Toyota Eco Youth (TEY) is now open. Held annually since 2001 in collaboration with the Ministry of Education (MOE), this event challenges secondary school students across Malaysia to develop innovative and sustainable environmental solutions.

Since its inception in 2001, TEY has empowered over 300,000 students from nearly 600 schools across the country, making them leaders of change in their communities. With its wide-reaching influence, UMWT continues to support these students beyond the competition, offering mentorship, industry insights, and opportunities to apply their learning to real-world environmental challenges.

Bigger support, bigger impact
For the first time, 30 schools will participate in TEY— double the number in previous years. Each school will receive RM3,000 in grant funding, totalling RM90,000, to kickstart their sustainability projects.

In addition to project funding, participating teams from each school will compete for cash prizes totalling RM77,000 across multiple award categories. Besides prizes for the top 3 teams, there will also be prizes for the Best Social Media Campaign, Best Presentation and Best Exhibition (at the closing ceremony event). Recognizing the role that teachers play, there will also be an award for the Most Supportive Teacher.

Hands-on learning
Over the years, TEY participants have turned their innovative ideas into impactful projects. For instance, in Kuala Bikam, the students created a system to reduce agricultural waste and improve local waste disposal, benefiting the community’s health and environment. In Penang, another group tackled marine pollution by designing and implementing a community-based clean-up initiative, helping restore marine ecosystems.

Additionally, in Sarawak, students introduced sustainable farming practices to local villages, reducing reliance on harmful chemicals and promoting long-term environmental sustainability.

Toyota problem-solving methodology
Prior to commencing their projects, all participants attend workshops where they learn Toyota’s 8-Step Problem-Solving Methodology. This will provide them with skills to use on their projects. By using the approach that Toyota uses throughout its organisation, they can identify issues, understand root causes, and implement practical, sustainable solutions.

Typically, the teams will spend the next few months on their projects. They are also required to publicise their project and provide updates via social media, adding the experience of communication with the public on environmental issues. Each team will make a presentation to a panel of judges who will determine the best submissions.

“Toyota Eco Youth isn’t just about raising awareness — it’s about action. By doubling school participation and increasing funding, we are giving more students the opportunity to develop solutions that will drive Malaysia toward a greener future. We are excited to see how this year’s participants will innovate and inspire,” said Datuk Ravindran K., President of UMW Toyota Motor.

Commitment to a Greener Future
As part of its Corporate Social Responsibility efforts, TEY reflects UMW Toyota Motor’s commitment to environmental sustainability. This initiative aligns with Toyota’s Environmental Action Plan, which is part of the company’s goal to achieve zero CO2 emissions by 2050.

Click here for more information and registration (which must be done by April 3, 2025). . The official programme launch, workshops, and opening ceremony will take place from April 28 – 30, 2025.

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