The Toyota Eco Youth (TEY) event, held annually since 2001 in collaboration with the Ministry of Education, started its 2025 edition in May this year. 30 schools from around the country are participating and since May, they have developed innovative and sustainable environmental solutions as projects.
However, these ideas are not just presentations and must also be turned into real-world action and actionable projects in the communities around the schools. Prior to commencing on their project, they were given guidance with Toyota’s 8-Step Problem-Solving Methodology. This methodology is used by Toyota throughout its organisation to identify issues, understand root causes, and implement practical, sustainable solutions.
Personal observation of project
Since May, the school teams have been implementing their projects in their communities and now, judges are assessing the projects on-site. Recently, UMW Toyota Motor (UMWT) President Datuk Ravindran K. visited SMK Pendamaran Jaya in Klang, Selangor, one of the participating schools, to personally observe the impact of the youth-led project’s sustainability efforts.
The school’s TEY project addressed a pressing community drainage issue along Jalan Young, where clogged and unmanaged waterways had caused frequent flooding and water stagnation. Using Toyota’s 8-Step Problem-Solving Methodology, the students analysed root causes, proposed long-term solutions, mobilised clean-up efforts, and engaged residents to build awareness around waste management and environmental care.
During the visit, students presented their project findings and showcased progress to Datuk Ravindran before leading him and the UMWT management team to the project site.
Mobility for All
“The solutions presented here reflect the courage, creativity and empathy of our youth,” said Datuk Ravindran K. “What I saw today is a clear reminder that real change can start with young leaders. Their determination gives us confidence that Malaysia’s future will be led by a generation that values sustainability and community responsibility. This is what ‘Mobility for All’ truly means, creating lasting impact that uplifts not just individuals, but entire communities.”
While TEY continues to serve as a national platform, the visit to SMK Pendamaran Jaya highlights how students’ efforts directly translate into visible improvements for their local communities in line with Toyota’s vision of Mobility for All.
Final stage
On-site evaluations will continue until October 15, after which the Top 15 schools will advance to the Grand Finals where they will be judged again based on their presentations and exhibitions to vie for the cash prizes totalling RM77,000 across multiple award categories.
The winning teams will be announced at a convention exhibition and closing ceremony at the end of October. There will 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.
Click here to know more about the Toyota Eco Youth event.
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