Samsung Malaysia Invites Teens to Solve Real-World Problems

Thousands of Malaysian teenagers will soon have a chance to prove their ideas can change their communities, not just earn them good grades.

Samsung Malaysia has launched the eighth edition of Solve for Tomorrow 2026, a nationwide competition inviting students aged 13 to 15 to apply science, technology, engineering and math skills to real problems in their neighborhoods. Teams of three students, guided by a teacher and mentor, can register from June 22 through July 27 to develop solutions addressing environmental sustainability, sport and technology, health, or education.

The competition arrives at a crucial moment for Malaysia's future workforce. Global economic shifts are expected to create 170 million new jobs by 2030 while displacing 92 million existing roles, accelerating demand for STEM skills in artificial intelligence, data analytics and digital technologies.

"Solve for Tomorrow is designed to help young Malaysians recognize that they have the ability to create meaningful change, regardless of where they start," said Agnes Wong, Head of Corporate Marketing at Samsung Malaysia Electronics. The program's theme this year, "Start with Can: Plant the Seeds of Change," emphasizes confidence and initiative over perfection.

Shortlisted entries will be announced in August and featured on the program's website. The top 10 teams will advance to refine their ideas and build actual prototypes with mentor guidance, preparing them for real-world problem solving beyond textbook exercises.

The Ripple Effect

The program addresses a critical gap between classroom learning and practical application. Associate Professor Dr. Mas Sahidayana Mohktar, Director of Universiti Malaya STEM Centre, noted that STEM education becomes most effective when students tackle authentic challenges. These experiences build critical thinking, creativity and resilience needed in an innovation-driven economy.

Selected teams will participate in a Design Thinking Workshop before competing in a final pitching round in October 2026. This hands-on approach gives teenagers experience identifying problems, developing solutions and presenting ideas, skills that will serve them regardless of their future career paths.

For Malaysia to maintain competitiveness as it moves toward becoming a high-income, innovation-led economy, cultivating these abilities from an early age becomes essential. Programs like Solve for Tomorrow provide practical experience that transforms young people from passive learners into active problem solvers.

Students ready to turn their ideas into community impact can register at samsung.com/my/solvefortomorrow before the July 27 deadline.