The ant story / kisah semut, the bilingual children’s story book

Children’s literature is a powerful tool for introducing science while nurturing cultural identity. The development of a bilingual (English & Bahasa Malaysia) children’s picture book titled “The Ant Story / Kisah Semut". The story blends Malaysian peribahasa featuring ants, “Ada gula, ada semut"; “Mati semut kerana gula"; “Bagaikan semut berkerumun"; and “Rajin seperti semut” with the biological realities of ant caste systems and ethnoentomological perspectives. By merging scientific explanations, narrative storytelling, and cultural symbolism, the book aims to enhance early STEM learning, foster pride in linguistic heritage, and inspire ecological awareness among young readers. This study outlines the conceptual framework, theoretical foundations, methodology, story architecture, and its contributions to cultural diplomacy, STEM education, and creative practices in Southeast Asian children’s media.