Singapore wildlife brand moves into animation with Ranger Buddies

CAKE and Mandai X have begun producing Ranger Buddies, a children's series set to premiere on Mediacorp in Singapore.

The 26-episode series marks the first move of Mandai X's Ranger Buddies edutainment brand into long-form animation. It pairs a Singapore nature setting and local broadcast debut with CAKE's international production and distribution reach.

CAKE and Singapore's Mandai X are producing the animated action-adventure series for four- to six-year-olds. It will run for 26 x 11-minute episodes.

Mandai X is Mandai Wildlife Group's venture-building and impact acceleration arm. The series takes its cue from Mandai Wildlife Reserve, Singapore's wildlife and nature destination, where visitors can find Bird Paradise, Rainforest Wild Adventure, Night Safari, River Wonders and Singapore Zoo.

The stories take place on the island world of Mandaria. They follow best friends Min and Al, two young explorers who spring into action when their community needs them while protecting the animals that live there.

Min and Al work alongside their animal buddies on every mission. Across the stories, adventure, comedy and discovery are paired with themes including teamwork, kindness and care for the natural world.

Lee said Ranger Buddies was designed to make that connection part of children's everyday lives, with its stories and characters intended to encourage curiosity, develop empathy and motivate meaningful action.

CAKE has its base in London and maintains offices in Berlin, Los Angeles and Toronto. It makes and distributes properties for children and families, while its distribution catalogue contains more than 3,200 half hours.

CAKE's productions include Angry Birds Summer Madness and Supa Team 4, with Triggerfish Animation, for Netflix; Angelo Rules with TeamTO; and Pablo with Paper Owl for CBeebies.

Ranger Buddies will launch at MIPCOM this month. The exact Mediacorp premiere date and the specific MIPCOM launch date are not stated.