KCU Pitchfest Showcase 2025 (Top 50)

Arigatou the Alligator

Arigato-kun, a green alligator from a humble background, embarks on a journey to Southeast Asia seeking a fresh start. After his father’s passing leaves his family in debt, he takes a government job to assist in the colonization of an uncharted island—a decision driven by both duty and desperation.
Upon arrival, Arigato-kun is overwhelmed by homesickness and the island’s untamed wilderness, but his curiosity leads him to explore its exotic wonders, including the rare Rafflesia flower, which sparks a newfound sense of awe and hope. Alongside his loyal assistant, CC, he soon becomes entangled in fierce rivalries over valuable spices, cultural clashes with the locals, and power struggles between colonial leaders.

My Why:

Southeast Asia is rich in history, culture, and potential but remains overlooked. Indonesia, the world’s 4th largest country, is home to 277 million people, but our stories are rarely told. Despite being the “lungs of the earth” and a region of immense diversity, Southeast Asia remains in the shadows of global media.
As a third-generation Chinese Indonesian, I’ve always felt caught between two worlds—an outsider in Indonesia, a traitor in China. The 1998 riots were a painful reminder of this disconnect. Yet, through this story, I want to highlight how the Chinese community has shaped Southeast Asia for generations, forging a unique cultural identity.

This project is my way of giving voice to a history and a region that deserves to be seen.