Kota Kinabalu: The musical theatre “Aaki & Ekko: Let’s Be Friends”drew around 250 children, parents and teachers from the Balung zone at the Dewan Al-Khawarizmi, IPG Kampus Tawau, recently.
Inspired by the Aaki & Ekko storybook series created by local educator and author Dave Thomas, the musical brought to life the adventures of Aaki, a Bornean boy, and his pet gecko, Ekko — characters that reflect Sabah’s rich cultural landscape while promoting values of empathy, friendship and respect for diversity.
Thomas said that unlike conventional stage productions, Aaki & Ekko is based on community-authored storytelling.
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“The stories were written collectively by parents, students, teachers and lecturers, reflecting a shared ownership of narrative and a collaborative educational spirit. The stage adaptation was fully conceptualised and executed by Early Childhood Education students of IPG Kampus Tawau, who handled scripting, composing original songs, choreography, stage design and prop construction independently. We work hand-in-hand to make it a success,” said Thomas.
Working with minimal funding, the team demonstrated creativity and sustainability by utilising recycled materials in alignment with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 12: Responsible Consumption and Production.
The production served as entertainment and also as an authentic learning platform, showcasing the students’ competencies in leadership, collaboration, communication and project management.
Thomas said the musical went beyond art, delivering a strong social message.
“The theme of friendship was intentionally crafted as a proactive approach to nurturing love, inclusion and emotional intelligence among children. At its core, the production subtly addressed the urgent issue of bullying, reminding young audiences that simple acts of kindness and acceptance can prevent harm and heal divisions.”
He explained that three additional characters — Naveen, Farhan and Zara — were introduced in the play as a tribute to lives lost due to acts of violence and bullying.
Their presence on stage served as a solemn yet hopeful reminder of the responsibility communities share in protecting children. Through storytelling, song and dialogue, the musical encouraged children to choose compassion over cruelty and friendship over fear.
Audience response was moving, with children actively participating in interactive segments. Parents and teachers expressed appreciation for the show’s relevance and emotional depth.
Many noted that the production transcended entertainment by opening space for meaningful conversations about empathy, safety and belonging, emphasizing that friendship remains one of the most powerful tools for change.
The success of Aaki & Ekko: Let’s Be Friends highlighted IPG Kampus Tawau’s commitment to developing future educators who are socially conscious and capable of integrating values education into creative pedagogical practices.
Thomas said the production is proof of what trainee teachers can achieve when entrusted with responsibility and guided by purpose.
