UMW Toyota Motor (UMWT), in collaboration with the Ministry of Education, has officially launched the Toyota Eco Youth (TEY) 2026 Workshop, held from 30–31 March at Wyndham Acmar, Klang, ahead of the programme’s official opening on 1 April 2026. Following a nationwide call for entries earlier this year, a total of 327 submissions were received from secondary schools across Malaysia, reflecting strong enthusiasm among students eager to address environmental issues in their communities.
Now in its 25th edition, the initiative has grown into a national platform that promotes environmental awareness and encourages practical, real-world problem-solving among secondary school students aged 13–16. The programme challenges students to identify local environmental issues and implement sustainable solutions using Toyota’s structured Problem Solving Methodology, highlighting its long-standing role in nurturing Malaysia’s next generation of environmentally conscious leaders.
“Through Toyota Eco Youth, students not only learn about environmental issues but also develop the skills, confidence, and mentorship needed to take meaningful action and become active members of their communities. Celebrating the 25th edition, we are proud to empower these young changemakers to turn their ideas into tangible projects that can make a lasting difference,” said Datuk Ravindran K., President of UMW Toyota Motor.
(From left) Mr. Faraed Mohd Sharif, Executive Director, Mr. Takashi Obata, Deputy Chairman of UMW Toyota Motor, Mr Ithnin Bin Mahadi, Director of the Sports, Co-Curricular and Arts Division, Ministry of Education Malaysia, Datuk Ravindran K., President UMW Toyota Motor, Mohd Shamsor Mohd Zain, Executive Director during the official Toyota Eco Youth 2026 Opening Ceremony
From the entries received, 30 schools have been shortlisted to participate in the Workshop and subsequent project implementation phase. Each shortlisted school will receive a grant of RM3,000, totaling RM90,000, to support their projects. This reinforces TEY’s emphasis on learning by doing, encouraging students to test and refine their ideas in real-world settings. TEY 2026 also offers RM80,000 in prize money, bringing total programme funding, including grants, to RM170,000. The main awards include RM30,000 for the champion, RM20,000 for second place, and RM10,000 for third place.
During the Workshop, students and their teacher-advisors receive hands-on guidance and mentorship to refine their projects, develop implementation plans, and monitor progress. This phase focuses on practical learning, teamwork, creativity, and environmental stewardship. Following on-site evaluations and project reviews, the top 15 schools will advance to the final stage during the TEY 2026 Convention and Exhibition from 2–4 November 2026, where they will compete for the programme’s grand prizes.
Toyota Eco Youth continues to inspire Malaysia’s next generation of eco-leaders by providing structured support, practical experience, and recognition for students committed to creating sustainable change. For more information and registration details, please visit https://www.toyota.com.my/toyotaecoyouth/.
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