News Desk
AUCKLAND: In conjunction with the Independence Month celebrations, the Auckland Malaysian Liaison Bureau (AMB), a Malaysian student organisation in Auckland, joined in the festivities by organising a theatre production centred on the spirit of patriotism. Hikayat – Malaysian Theatre Night 2026, entitled “BIRU”, portrays the struggle to defend the homeland and preserve harmony and unity from the grip of colonial rule. However, this struggle is tested by betrayal and questions of loyalty.
The programme director, Ikram Abdul Rahim, said that the theatre production, staged in Bahasa Melayu, was the first of its kind to be staged in Auckland. The script, storyline and overall production were written and developed by Ikram, who had nurtured the ambition to stage a theatre production since he was 15 years old.
The captivating performance, accompanied by resounding chants of “Merdeka!”, brought the Glen Eden Playhouse Theatre in Auckland to life. In addition to the theatre production, kompang and dikir barat performances were also presented, drawing enthusiastic applause from the audience. Also in attendance were the High Commissioner of Malaysia to New Zealand, H.E. Abu Bakar Mamat, representatives from the University of Auckland, members of the Malaysian diaspora and the local community.
Commenting on the choice of the title “BIRU”, the High Commissioner of Malaysia said that it carries a meaning closely connected to the identity and spirit of Malaysians. As one of the colours of the Jalur Gemilang, blue symbolises the unity of the Malaysian people. In the context of Independence Month celebrations, the production also highlights the meaning of dignity and national identity, as well as the aspiration to build a better future for Malaysia.
