The 19th edition of the Toyota Dream Car Art Contest (DCAC) 2025/26 has concluded on a high note, with UMW Toyota Motor celebrating a record-breaking year of participation and creativity. The closing ceremony, held at the One World Hotel, gathered young participants, educators, and distinguished guests to honour the remarkable imagination and artistic expression of children from across Malaysia.
This year’s contest saw an unprecedented 6,508 submissions, marking a dramatic increase of 3,387 entries compared to the previous edition. The surge more than doubled last year’s participation, underscoring the contest’s growing appeal and its continued relevance among young Malaysians. In total, 96 schools took part, engaging over 72,000 students from preschool, primary, and secondary levels, making it one of the most impactful editions to date.
Since its global inception in 2004, the Toyota Dream Car Art Contest has served as a platform for children to envision the future of mobility through art. In Malaysia, the initiative has steadily evolved into a nationwide movement that not only encourages creativity but also nurtures critical thinking and a sense of responsibility among youth.
According to Datuk Ravindran K., President of UMW Toyota Motor, the increasing participation reflects how strongly the contest resonates with young minds. He noted that the diversity of ideas and concepts continues to elevate the quality of submissions each year, while also helping participants gain confidence in expressing their visions for the future. The contest, he added, plays a meaningful role in empowering children to shape their world through creativity and innovation.
The competition followed a structured and inclusive approach, guiding participants from initial concept development to final submission. Entries were accepted through multiple channels, including school programmes, online platforms, art institutions, and physical submissions, ensuring accessibility for students from diverse backgrounds. Each artwork was carefully evaluated based on originality, creativity, and its alignment with future mobility themes.
Winners were selected across three age categories, showcasing exceptional talent from young artists nationwide. In Group 1 (7 years old and under), Mia Lee Su Wei claimed first prize, followed by Hiew Zi Feng and Javene Chah. For Group 2 (ages 8 to 11), Elise Kong emerged as the top winner, with Ng Kai Qing and Agnes Yoon taking second and third place respectively. In Group 3 (ages 12 to 15), Liew Pei Han secured first place, ahead of Isaac Lee and Lau Viteng. Additional consolation prizes were awarded in each category, recognising the depth of talent across all participants.
The journey does not end here for the top winners, as their artworks will represent Malaysia at the World Toyota Dream Car Art Contest in Japan. This global stage offers an opportunity for young Malaysian artists to share their visions with an international audience, highlighting the country’s creative potential and forward-thinking ideas.
Over the years, the Toyota Dream Car Art Contest has become a cornerstone of UMW Toyota Motor’s commitment to education, creativity, and community development. By encouraging children to dream big and think innovatively, the initiative continues to inspire future generations to contribute towards a more sustainable and imaginative world.
