AdminFans of Netflix’s reality series The Mole are in for a treat as the show’s second season unfolds against the stunning backdrop of Malaysia. This season, featuring 12 contestants vying for a substantial cash prize, was filmed entirely at various iconic locations across the country.
The production team spent six weeks in Malaysia starting in July last year, capturing the nation’s diverse landscapes and cultural heritage. Each episode of the series not only tests the contestants’ mental and physical prowess but also highlights Malaysia’s natural beauty and vibrant urban life.
Challenging Tasks and Hidden Saboteurs
The second season of The Mole introduces 12 new players who face a series of mental and physical challenges in their quest for the prize money. Each week, contestants work together to complete missions that test their skills and endurance, from escaping locked prison cells to locating submerged treasure. Meanwhile, they must also identify the saboteur within their ranks.
For those who haven’t watched the series yet, let’s explore some of the remarkable locations featured in the first five episodes, available on Netflix.
Pulau Tioman: A Tropical Paradise
Pulau Tioman, known for its pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters, serves as a breathtaking contrast to The Mole’s intense and suspenseful storyline. This duty-free island off Peninsular Malaysia’s east coast is renowned as a geological wonder and ecological paradise. Acclaimed as one of Southeast Asia’s most beautiful travel destinations, Pulau Tioman’s lush greenery and stunning beaches provide a serene escape amidst the gripping plot of the show.
Key scenes were shot at Monkey Bay and Tekek beach, showcasing the island’s natural beauty. Monkey Bay, tucked behind Salang Village on the island’s west coast, is a picturesque beach accessible by speedboat or jungle trail. This sweeping bay, with its calm pool of seawater and lush rainforest surroundings, also serves as an optional snorkeling spot on round-island tours.
Meanwhile, Tekek, the largest village on Pulau Tioman, features a long stretch of public beach along a 3km coastal area, right past the airport. Visitors in the late evening might notice hundreds of bats perched upside down in the trees. These picturesque locations highlight the island’s enchanting allure, adding a touch of tropical paradise to The Mole’s captivating episodes.
Petronas Twin Towers: Urban Marvel
The majestic Petronas Twin Towers in Kuala Lumpur are a prominent feature in The Mole Season 2, appearing in both the trailer and several episodes. Situated in the heart of the bustling city, these iconic towers add a touch of urban sophistication to the show’s diverse settings, enhancing the visual appeal and underscoring Malaysia’s modern architectural achievements.
Often cited as the landmark that placed Malaysia on the map of globally recognizable cities, the Petronas Twin Towers are a sight to behold. Housing one of the tallest buildings in the world, this architectural marvel symbolizes the country’s progress and innovation, providing a stunning backdrop for the contestants’ intense challenges and adventures.
Forest City: An Eerie Backdrop for Thrilling Challenges
Forest City, an integrated residential development and private town located in Iskandar Puteri, was billed as “a dream paradise for all mankind,” primarily targeting the domestic Chinese market. However, the reality turned out differently, and today, Forest City is largely vacant, embodying the ghost town moniker.
Despite its current state, The Mole leverages the eerie yet captivating landscapes of this $100 billion luxury development to create a compelling setting for its challenges. Contestants navigate intense trials amidst the partially developed urban landscape, adding a spooky element to this season and drawing attention to the southern state of Johor.
Port Klang: Maritime Hustle
Port Klang is a town and the main gateway by sea into Malaysia. Known during colonial times as Port Swettenham but renamed Port Klang in July 1972, it is the largest port in the country. Located about 6 kilometres southwest of the town of Klang, and 38 kilometres southwest of Kuala Lumpur, Port Klang serves as a crucial node in Malaysia’s maritime industry, handling a significant portion of the nation’s trade and commerce.
Viewers seeking a glimpse of the dynamic Port Klang can tune into the episode titled “Special Delivery.” This episode showcases the bustling maritime hub of Malaysia, presenting a vivid visual experience of the country’s principal port.
Sentul Depot: Industrial Charm
Sentul Depot, located in Sentul West, Kuala Lumpur, holds a storied past as Malaysia’s largest railway workshops complex dating back to 1905. Today, it has transformed into a vibrant cultural and lifestyle destination, retaining its rustic, brick-built structures amidst modern developments. The depot’s industrial architecture and serene surroundings provide a picturesque backdrop, evoking the legacy of one of the world’s foremost railway engineering workshops.
Once bustling with thousands of ambitious workers, Sentul Depot now merges its historical significance with contemporary challenges, making it a compelling setting for the contestants of The Mole to navigate through tests of skill and strategy.
Other Attractions
Amidst the high-stakes missions of The Mole Season 2, the lush Napier grass fields in western Peninsular Malaysia provide a serene contrast. Here, contestants and viewers alike can momentarily escape the intensity of the challenges, immersed in the tranquil greenery that punctuates the series’ narrative.
In another episode, viewers were treated to a glimpse of Malaysia’s cultural richness with a visit to the iconic Lotus Five Star cinema. This cultural landmark not only adds depth to the series but also showcases Malaysia’s vibrant cinematic heritage, captivating audiences with its historical significance and modern cinematic offerings.
Anticipating Future Episodes
With five episodes already aired, viewers are excited to see what other Malaysian landmarks and hidden gems will be spotlighted in upcoming episodes of The Mole.
As the series progresses, fans eagerly anticipate which locations will be featured next, continuing to showcase Malaysia’s rich and varied landscape. This season not only promises thrilling challenges and dramatic revelations but also serves as a captivating travelogue of Malaysia’s scenic splendor.
CJMY
Add comment