The action-packed first episode of Survivor South Africa: Malaysia saw Nomfundo Vilikazi (27) sent home after three days on the deserted island of Semengat in Malaysia. Iban, Nomfundo’s tribe, lost the first immunity challenge against opposing tribe Bajau by a small margin, resulting in their having to attend tribal council. Mark Bayly tallied the votes at the end of the tribal council, and Nomfundo had four votes against her name. Lisa narrowly escaped with three votes. Grant’s name was on the remaining ballot. Nomfundo being voted off was probably due to a four-way alliance between Lisa, Angie, Viwe and Grant. They felt that they had to up their game at the challenges. they regarded Nomfundo as their weakest link despite her mental strength. Iban was asked about possible alliances at the council, but he pretended that some people were only ‘talking more to other people’. Lisa work ethic was to blame for her votes: she openly admitted that she did not help around camp because she was saving her energy for challenges. The first episode saw the Survivors starting the game with only the clothes on their backs. The contestants were ambushed by military men, who shackled them and took all their luggage. They were then ferried to the island that would be their home for up to 27 days. The first challenge, during which their tribal colours would be determined, saw Nichal become the first contestant to be taken to exile island. He toppled first on a set of tree stumps. However, he was reintroduced into the game, becoming a member of Bajau as a reward for winning the first challenge. It is evident that trouble could be looming at camp Bajau. Nicola wasn’t unsure of how much Nichal would contribute at camp; Rijesh revealed that he was gay, which led to different sleeping arrangements; and tribal members are questioning Hein’s bush knowledge. However, the first flare-up of Survivor South Africa: Malaysia occurred between Dyke and Elsie: Elsie fumed after Dyke made a comment about the black ladies’ swimming skills. If the first episode of Survivor South Africa: Malaysia is anything to go by, the series will be tough and fiery. Survivor South Africa: Malaysia is screened on M-Net on Wednesday evenings at 20:00 and repeated on M-Net Series, channel 36 on DStv on Fridays at 22:00. For footage from the first episode,visit www.mnet.co.za/survivor.