Kuala Lumpur, 3 November 2008 - In efforts to ensure a healthier and greener tomorrow, the students of Sekolah Menengah Setapak Indah (SMK Setapak Indah) have been actively engaged in various Eco projects, undertaken to raise environmental awareness.

As participants of the Toyota Eco Rangers programme launched in June this year, the Eco Rangers Team comprising 25 students have cultivated an herb garden, revitalised the plants, trees and water feature within their school.

Today, they are planting 15 out of 100 indigenous trees as an icon to the Toyota Eco Rangers programme. “These 100 indigenous trees are a symbol of their growth. As we watch the trees grow, we watch the students learn and develop.” said Mohanan, Assistant Head of Department, UMW Toyota Motor.

The students themselves mention that, they have selected the indigenous Assam Gelugur tree due to it has becoming a rarity. Their aim is to reintroduce the tree to the current and future generations. “Apart from that, the Assam Gelugur fruits will be able to provide a side income to sustain the Toyota Eco Rangers programme,” mentioned Form Four Student, Mohd Dzulkifli Mohd Yusoff.

According to Mohanan, “the students are encouraged to raise funds in order to sustain the programme. We intend to teach the children to be independent and responsible while caring for the environment. In essence, this programme is focused on the holistic development of students through environmental awareness.” He went on to mention that under this programme, the students are also encouraged to achieve zero waste in their schools.

Each of the 22 participating schools was selected by the Ministry of Education. This programme is UMW Toyota Motor’s extension to their Toyota Eco Youth programme, under their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) environment pillar.

UMW Toyota Motor’s commitment to CSR has been an integral part of its corporate culture since it was formed in 1982. Their CSR approach of a “History of service to society’ is consistent with the company’s brand message, “Moving Forward”, a concept that is in consonant with the company’s philosophy of constant self-improvement and growth for a better future for all.