Six students to represent Malaysia at FedEx regional trade finals

FedEx Express, a subsidiary of FedEx Corp. and one of the world’s largest express transportation companies, continues to champion youth empowerment through its annual FedEx/Junior Achievement International Trade Challenge (FedEx/JA ITC). Now in its 17th year in Malaysia, the program aims to develop entrepreneurial skills and global business thinking among secondary school students.

Organised in partnership with Junior Achievement (JA) Malaysia, a non-profit organisation dedicated to preparing youth for success in a global economy, the 2025 challenge brought together young Malaysian innovators for a hands-on learning experience. This year’s task: to develop a market entry strategy plan (MESP) for a sustainable fashion solution that addresses the growing problem of product return waste in China.

“This program plays a key role in that journey, broadening perspectives, building confidence and helping students see what is possible beyond the classroom,” said Tien Long Woon, managing director of FedEx Malaysia. “As Malaysia cultivates entrepreneurial talent, it is important that young people are equipped with business skills alongside a global mindset.”

Sustainability and innovation

Following rounds of local workshops and team-based challenges, six students emerged as Malaysia’s top contenders for the regional finals. Each team demonstrated creativity, problem-solving and a keen understanding of sustainable business practices.

Team Banana Bloom from SMJK Katholik presented NanaBanana, a clothing brand crafted from banana silk and hemp fabric, co-designed by senior citizens. The garments can be returned for composting, promoting circular fashion and reducing landfill waste.

Team Clover from SMJK Chung Hwa introduced Clover, a personal digital wardrobe that uses AI for styling advice and augmented reality for outfit planning. The app encourages users to maximise their existing wardrobes and embrace thrifting, making sustainable fashion choices more accessible.

Team Pure Tag from Tanarata International School showcased Jing Biao, a garment embedded with tamper-evident ink that reveals signs of wear or washing. This innovative approach aims to prevent return fraud and reduce waste by repurposing unsellable clothing into functional, smart apparel.

Representing Malaysia

The six winning students will represent Malaysia at the Asia Pacific regional finals in Singapore this August. There, they will join finalists from nine other countries – including Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Japan, Korea, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam – for a week of cross-cultural learning and entrepreneurial exchange.

The regional finals will offer participants an opportunity to collaborate across borders, engage in team-building exercises and apply business strategies in an international context. Finalists will also benefit from mentorship and insights shared by FedEx leaders and industry professionals, further enhancing their global business acumen.

“The business landscape is evolving rapidly, making it essential to build a strong foundation for the next generation,” added Woon.

Youth empowerment

Since its inception in Malaysia in 2008, the FedEx/JA ITC has impacted more than 9,900 students, playing a pivotal role in cultivating future business leaders. Past Malaysian participants have achieved notable success, including a Top 3 finish in 2019 and a first-place win at the 2024 regional finals.

These accomplishments underscore the effectiveness of the FedEx/JA ITC in inspiring innovation and fostering the next generation of global thinkers. As the 2025 cohort heads to Singapore, they carry not only their business ideas but the hopes of continuing Malaysia’s proud tradition of excellence on the international stage.

For more information about the FedEx/JA ITC and other educational programs, visit www.jamalaysia.org.