Author: Mazlan Abbas

IOT Evangelist

The Brutal Reality of Building a Startup: Lessons They Never Taught Me

Oh, I was naive when I first embarked on this startup journey.

I still remember my optimism when we first started building our product. Everything seemed so clear in my mind. You develop a great product, set the pricing, launch it, and boom—customers will come pouring in. That was the textbook version of entrepreneurship, which we often hear in business courses and training programs.

But reality? Oh boy, reality had other plans for me.

The First Wake-Up Call: A Consumer App That Nobody Knew Existed

One of our earliest ventures was developing a mobile app for consumers. We were convinced that if the app solved a problem and had great features, people would naturally download and use it.

We built the app, polished the user experience, ensured it looked sleek, and confidently launched it. Now, all we had to do was sit back and watch the downloads roll in.

Except… nothing happened.

The download numbers barely moved. We thought maybe people just hadn’t heard about it yet. So we started creating social media content—posters, videos, articles, anything to spread the word. We poured time, effort, and energy into marketing.

And still, the numbers trickled in at an agonizingly slow pace.

I remember checking the app analytics daily, hoping to see a download spike. Maybe today will be the day we go viral. But day after day, reality set in—people weren’t discovering our app. The noise of the digital world was too loud, and we were just another tiny voice trying to be heard.

Marketing a consumer app wasn’t just about putting up a few ads or making several social media posts. It required massive effort, an actual marketing budget, partnerships, influencers, and an entire strategy to break through the clutter.

Eventually, after months of trying, we made the painful decision to scrap the product. The lesson?

A great product means nothing if nobody knows about it.

Entering Enterprise Sales: A Whole New Set of Challenges

After that experience, we pivoted towards enterprise sales, thinking this might be different. If we could demonstrate tangible business value, surely companies would see the benefits and sign up.

But once again, reality was waiting with another lesson.

Unlike consumer apps, enterprise sales meant endless pitching, presenting, and convincing stakeholders. It wasn’t just about impressing one person—we had to convince entire teams, procurement departments, and decision-makers with agendas, budgets, and timelines.

Some clients were polite, nodding along and saying they were interested. Then they disappeared.

Some asked for proposals but took months—sometimes years—to give honest feedback.

Some liked the product, but their procurement process was a bureaucratic nightmare.

And then some would ask for trials, dragging us through weeks of testing and onboarding, only to do nothing with it afterward.

I still remember sending hundreds of quotations, hoping for even a fraction of them to convert into actual purchase orders. It was exhausting.

When we did manage to close deals, there was another harsh reality—getting paid. Some clients paid promptly, but many took their sweet time. Some stretched payments for months, and in the meantime, our cash flow suffered.

And let’s not forget those who squeezed us for the lowest possible price, negotiating so aggressively that by the time we signed the deal, there was barely any profit left.

Every stage was a battle—from selling to closing, to delivering, to getting paid.

The Reality They Never Taught in Business School

Looking back, I laugh at how naive I was in those early days.

None of this was covered in any entrepreneurship course or training program, and nobody warned me about the sheer emotional and financial toll of running a startup.

I had to learn it the hard way:

  • Customers don’t just appear—you must fight for every single one.
  • Enterprise sales require patience, persistence, and a thick skin.
  • Getting paid is its own separate challenge. Cash flow can kill a business faster than a lack of customers.
  • Many people will show interest, but only a tiny percentage will commit.
  • The market doesn’t care how hard you worked—only the value you deliver and how well you convince them.

Despite all of this, despite the struggles and setbacks, I wouldn’t trade this journey for anything. Every lesson, rejection, and challenge has made me a stronger entrepreneur.

Would I have started my startup knowing all this from the beginning?

Probably.

But I would have been a lot more prepared for the battle ahead.

How’s that for capturing your journey? It’s raw, honest, and full of the hard truths no textbook teaches! Let me know if you want any refinements.

Received A Reply Letter From My 100-Year Old Future Self

Dear 64-Year-Old Mazlan,

I received your letter today. I had to read it slowly, not because my eyesight has failed me—oh, technology has taken care of that with some advanced vision implants—but because every word you wrote carried so much weight, emotion, and truth.

Yes, I am still here. At 100, my hands may not be as steady, but my mind is as sharp as ever. My heart still beats with that restless energy, though now it beats with more reflection than urgency. So, let me take my time responding to your questions, fears, and, most importantly, your hopes.

Did I Ever Learn to Slow Down?

Ah, Mazlan, you and I both know the answer to this one. Slowing down was never in our nature. Even now, my mind refuses to stay still. But did I learn to savor the moment? Yes. It took time—decades- but eventually, I understood that not every race needs to be won at full speed.

You were right to worry about always chasing the next big thing. It was an addiction, wasn’t it? That hunger to create, to disrupt, to innovate. But here’s what I want you to know—I did find a balance. It wasn’t an overnight revelation. It wasn’t some grand epiphany. It was a slow realization, like dawn gradually turning into morning.

I learned that the world will always be moving, shifting, and changing. But sometimes, the best thing you can do is just be present. Enjoy the coffee rather than thinking about the next meeting. Sit with loved ones without checking your notifications. Watch a sunset without feeling the need to capture it on a device.

You don’t have to stop dreaming, Mazlan. Just make sure you take the time to live within those dreams, too.

Did FAVORIOT Become the Legacy We Dreamed Of?

Ah, FAVORIOT. Our baby. The company that kept us awake at night, that pushed us beyond our limits, that made us believe we could change the world.

Yes, it grew. Yes, it became something bigger than you could ever imagine. But here’s what you got wrong—you thought success would come from industry domination, from being at the forefront of IoT. And while FAVORIOT did thrive, its most tremendous success wasn’t in the numbers. It was in the people.

You see, FAVORIOT became more than just a company. It became a movement. It became a space where young minds could dream, innovations could flourish, and problems could find solutions. It wasn’t just about technology—it was about impact.

And Malaysia? Well, let’s just say we got there. It took longer than we hoped, and we faced obstacles we never saw coming. But the seeds you planted? They grew. The smart cities, the IoT-driven solutions, and the technology that made lives easier all became part of the fabric of daily life.

So yes, you did well, my younger self. You fought for something real. And it was worth it.

What Did Time Teach Me?

So much. Too much to fit into a single letter. But if I could tell you just a few things, this is what I would say:

  1. What are the things that keep you up at night now? They won’t matter as much as you think. The worries about whether you’re doing enough, whether you’re on the right path, whether people recognize your work—it all fades. The real value of your life won’t be measured in titles or accolades but in the people who sit beside you in your quiet moments.
  2. Mistakes are inevitable, but regrets are optional. You will make choices that don’t always work out. You will take risks that fail. You will hurt and be hurt. But the only thing worse than making mistakes is living with the fear of making them.
  3. Love deeply and without hesitation. Ultimately, it won’t be the projects you completed that you think about. It will be the people. The ones who stood by you, believed in you, and loved you even when you were too busy to notice. Give them your time. Give them your heart.

Did the World Change for the Better?

Ah, this is a tricky one. Yes and no. Technology has advanced beyond our wildest imaginations. We have achieved things you wouldn’t believe in, such as AI, robotics, and space travel. But humanity? Well, we’re still figuring that out.

There were moments of brilliance—people coming together to solve global crises, to use technology for good, and to build a future that was more inclusive, more sustainable, and more intelligent. But there were also setbacks. Greed, division, and short—sightedness still existed, just in different forms.

But if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s this—progress is never a straight line. It’s messy. It’s complicated. But as long as there are people who believe in doing better, pushing forward with integrity, and using knowledge for good, there is always hope.

And you, Mazlan, were one of those people. That, I am confident of.

Am I at Peace?

Ah, my dear younger self. This is the question that made me pause the longest.

Yes. I am at peace.

Not because I achieved everything I set out to do, avoided failure, or because life was perfect.

I am at peace because I lived. I gave my all to the things I believed in. I learned to love and be loved. I left something behind—not just in the world but in the hearts of the people who knew me.

I am at peace because I know I mattered.

Final Words to You, My Younger Self

So, what did you get right? Almost everything.

What did you get wrong? You thought happiness was something to chase. It never was. It was always right there—in the moments, people, and journey itself.

And yes, Mazlan. I am happy.

So keep going, keep dreaming, keep building.

And when the time comes, know that you will look back at your life not with regret but with gratitude.

With all the wisdom that time has granted me,
Mazlan (Your 100-Year-Old Self)

An Open Letter to All Mayors in Malaysia

Dear Mayors of Malaysia,

I write this letter not just as an advocate for Smart Cities but as someone who has spent decades witnessing the evolution of technology and its potential to transform urban living. Malaysia stands at a crossroads—our cities are growing, our infrastructure is aging, and the demands of a digital economy are pressing upon us. The question is: Are we ready to build smarter, more livable, and sustainable cities?

I have worked in telecommunications, IoT, and Smart Cities for years, advising governments, corporations, and startups on technology adoption. As the CEO of FAVORIOT and a frequent speaker on global Smart City platforms, I have seen what works and what doesn’t. With this letter, I hope to share practical insights on how we can make Malaysian cities truly smart.

Why Smart Cities Are No Longer a Luxury—They Are a Necessity

Urbanization is accelerating across Malaysia. Congestion, pollution, inefficient public services, and security concerns are increasing challenges. The world is shifting towards data-driven, tech-enabled cities where efficiency, sustainability, and connectivity define urban living. Yet, many Malaysian Smart City projects fail to deliver because they lack coordination, funding, and long-term planning.

We must move beyond pilot projects and fragmented initiatives and instead focus on a holistic, integrated transformation strategy that aligns with the global shift towards the Fourth Industrial Revolution.

Here’s how Malaysian cities can take the proper steps toward Smart City success.

1. Develop a Smart City Master Plan for Long-Term Sustainability

One of the cities’ most significant mistakes is implementing standalone Smart City projects without a clear roadmap. This results in wasted budgets, incompatible systems, and stalled progress. Every Malaysian city should have a Smart City Master Plan that outlines:

✅ Clear objectives (e.g., improving mobility, security, sustainability, governance).

✅ A phased approach to implementation.

✅ A public-private partnership (PPP) model for funding and collaboration.

✅ A governance structure for managing cross-department initiatives.

A well-crafted Smart City Master Plan ensures that efforts are aligned, reducing inefficiencies and maximizing impact.

2. Implement an Integrated IoT Platform for Real-Time Data & Decision-Making

A city cannot be smart if its data is locked in silos. One department might collect traffic data, another manages waste collection, and another monitors air quality—but if these systems don’t talk to each other, decision-making is slow and inefficient.

Malaysia needs a centralized Smart City IoT platform that:

✅ Collects real-time data from sensors deployed across the city.

✅ Provides a single dashboard for city administrators to monitor key urban metrics.

✅ It automates traffic flow optimization, waste management, and energy efficiency.

At FAVORIOT, we’ve seen how cities using a unified IoT platform experience smoother operations, better planning, and enhanced citizen engagement.

3. Solve Traffic Congestion with Smart Mobility Solutions

Every Malaysian city struggles with traffic. The solution isn’t just building more roads but using technology to optimize movement. Here’s how:

🚦 AI-powered traffic lights that adjust based on real-time congestion.

🅿️ Smart parking systems that guide drivers to empty spots, reducing unnecessary idling.

🚍 Public transport optimization through real-time tracking and mobile app integration.

Cities like Seoul and Singapore have successfully reduced traffic congestion by implementing these solutions—Malaysia can and should do the same.

4. Enhance Public Safety Through AI-Driven Surveillance & Emergency Response

Urban safety is a top priority, yet traditional surveillance methods react to crime rather than prevent it. A Smart City integrates:

🔍 AI-powered CCTV cameras with facial recognition and anomaly detection.

🚔 Automated emergency response systems that connect law enforcement, medical teams, and city management.

📊 Predictive analytics to anticipate security threats and deploy resources efficiently.

With an AI-driven security infrastructure, our cities can become safer, ensuring better citizen and business protection.

5. Embrace Green and Sustainable Solutions

A Smart City isn’t just about technology—it’s also about sustainability. Malaysian cities should adopt:

♻️ Smart waste management with sensor-enabled bins that notify collection teams when full.

💡 Energy-efficient smart lighting that adjusts brightness based on pedestrian movement.

🌿 Air and water quality monitoring using IoT sensors to detect pollution levels.

By integrating green technologies, we can reduce waste, save costs, and improve urban health for future generations.

6. Improve Citizen Engagement Through Digital Governance

A truly Smart City is citizen-centric. People should feel empowered to report issues, provide feedback, and participate in governance. Cities should implement:

📲 Mobile apps for residents to report potholes, broken streetlights, or illegal dumping.

🌐 Smart City Citizen Portals to access city services seamlessly.

💬 AI-powered chatbots for real-time responses to public inquiries.

By digitizing citizen engagement, we increase transparency, trust, and participation in urban governance.

7. Establish a Smart City Project Management Office (PMO)

One of the biggest reasons Smart Cities fail is because they lack proper oversight. Many cities start initiatives without tracking progress, resolving roadblocks, or aligning stakeholders.

Every city needs a Smart City PMO to:

📊 Ensure all projects align with the Smart City Master Plan.

🔄 Coordinate between different city departments and agencies.

🤝 Facilitate partnerships with private sector players and universities.

Projects will remain disjointed, unfunded, or abandoned midway without a dedicated Smart City Office.

The Future of Malaysia’s Cities

Malaysia has the talent, resources, and ambition to become a global leader in Smart Cities—but only if we take bold, coordinated action.

📌 Are we ready to transition from pilot projects to full-scale Smart City implementation?

📌 Can we break down silos and integrate smart solutions across all urban services?

📌 Will we prioritize sustainability, digital governance, and real-time data for better decision-making?

As someone deeply passionate about Smart Cities, I would be honored to collaborate with Malaysian municipalities, offering expertise and technology solutions that can accelerate our urban transformation.

Let’s make Malaysian cities smarter—not just for today but for future generations.

Are you ready to build the city of tomorrow?

I welcome discussions and partnerships—please feel free to reach out.

Sincerely,

Dr. Mazlan Abbas

CEO & Co-Founder,

FAVORIOT Sdn Bhd

Why I See Myself as an Eagle: Vision, Resilience, and Soaring Above Challenges

If I had to compare myself to an animal, I would say I am like an eagle—soaring high, always looking ahead, and never losing sight of my vision.

I’ve always admired the eagle’s sharp focus, resilience, and ability to fly above storms. It doesn’t get distracted by the noise below; it rides the wind, using even strong currents to propel itself higher. That’s how I see my journey—whether in IoT, entrepreneurship, or writing.

But let me take a step back.

“Mazlan, why not a lion? Aren’t lions supposed to be the king of the jungle?”

That thought did cross my mind. The lion is strong, fearless, and commands respect. But a lion operates within a pack, a pride. It leads, yes, but it is also bound by its territory. I’ve always felt more like an eagle—independent, strategic, and always searching for new horizons.

The Eagle’s Vision

Eagles can spot a rabbit from miles away. I strive for that kind of clarity in everything I do—whether it’s running FAVORIOT, mentoring startups, or sharing my thoughts on IoT and smart cities. The ability to anticipate trends, recognize opportunities, and act swiftly is critical in the fast-moving tech world.

I remember when IoT was still a buzzword in Malaysia. Many doubted its potential. But I saw what was coming. I knew IoT would transform industries, and I wanted to be at the forefront. Like an eagle scouting the landscape, I positioned myself early—writing, speaking, and building an ecosystem before many even realized its impact.

Rising Above the Storm

One of my favorite things about eagles is how they react to storms. Instead of seeking shelter, they spread their wings and let the wind lift them higher.

Entrepreneurship is full of storms—failed pitches, slow adoption, and financial struggles. There were days when I questioned if building FAVORIOT was the right decision. “Maybe I should have stayed in a corporate job, enjoyed stability.” But then, I’d remind myself—eagles don’t retreat. They rise. They adapt. They push forward.

When COVID-19 hit, many businesses struggled. We could have paused and waited for things to settle. Instead, we pivoted—offering online IoT training, expanding our platform’s capabilities, and forging new partnerships. We didn’t just survive; we found new ways to thrive.

Independence & Leadership

Unlike birds that fly in flocks, eagles often soar alone. They don’t wait for permission; they take the lead.

That’s something I relate to deeply. I’ve had to make difficult decisions throughout my career—leaving a stable job, starting a company, challenging industry norms. I’ve never been one to follow the crowd. If I see a better way, I take it, even if it means flying solo for a while.

The Lesson of the Eagle

Eagles don’t just fly; they inspire. Through my work, my writing, and my mentorship, I hope to inspire others to see beyond immediate obstacles, think long-term, and rise above challenges.

So, if I were an animal, I’d be an eagle—sharp, relentless, and always looking for the next great opportunity in the vast sky of possibilities.

And if you had to choose, which animal are you?

A Letter to My 100-Year-Old Self

Dear Mazlan,

I hope this letter finds you in good health—though, at 100, I imagine your definition of “good health” is quite different from what I know now at 64. Have you finally achieved the balance of wisdom, patience, and acceptance that I am still working on? Or are you still chasing new ideas, thinking about the next innovation, the next disruption, the next frontier?

I sit here today, reflecting on the years that have passed, and I wonder—what has changed?

Did You Finally Slow Down?

Let’s be honest, slowing down was never in your nature. Even now, people tell me to “take it easy,” to “relax,” but that’s just not who I am. You were always restless, always looking for something to build, something to improve. You loved the feeling of being in the middle of things—whether it was pioneering IoT solutions, pushing smart city initiatives, or mentoring young entrepreneurs.

Did you ever truly retire? Or did you redefine retirement in your own way, turning it into just another phase of productivity? Did you ever stop writing, stop speaking at conferences, stop brainstorming new projects? I doubt it. The fire to create has been in you since childhood—remember those early days when you imagined futuristic worlds after watching The Jetsons? Did you ever outgrow that curiosity?

I sincerely hope not.

Did FAVORIOT Become the Legacy You Dreamed Of?

I need to ask—what happened to FAVORIOT? In my time, it is still growing, still making an impact in the world of IoT. We have expanded to multiple countries, partnered with great companies, and empowered countless developers, businesses, and cities to leverage IoT for a better future. But where is it now, at 100?

Did it grow beyond expectations? Did it become an industry leader, a force to be reckoned with in the global IoT landscape? Or did it evolve into something unexpected, something I can’t yet imagine?

I hope you nurtured it well. I hope you surrounded yourself with the right people—the kind who believe in the vision as much as you do. Because ideas are nothing without the right execution, and a company is nothing without the right people.

Did you finally see Malaysia fully embrace smart cities, powered by IoT in ways we once dreamed about? Or are we still lagging behind, still dealing with bureaucracy, still convincing people of the importance of innovation? I wonder if you are reading this with a knowing smile, shaking your head at how impatient I was.

What Lessons Did You Learn?

If you could talk to me now, what would you tell me? What mistakes should I avoid in the years ahead? What regrets did you accumulate along the way? I know myself—I will always be driven by ambition, always thinking of what’s next. But did I ever pause enough to appreciate the now?

Did I spend enough time with family? Did I express my gratitude to those who helped me along the way? Did I leave behind a legacy of knowledge, inspiration, and kindness, or did I get too caught up in the chase for success?

I hope you learned to let go of unnecessary worries. Right now, I stress over things that perhaps, in the grand scheme of life, don’t really matter. Did all those small worries fade into irrelevance with time?

Did the World Change the Way You Hoped?

Technology is moving fast—AI, IoT, robotics, quantum computing. At 64, I see the world changing, but at 100, how much more has it evolved? Did humanity finally master AI in a way that benefits all of society, or did we lose ourselves in our creations?

Is technology still something we control, or did it end up controlling us?

And what about space exploration? Have humans finally set foot on Mars? Did Elon Musk’s vision become a reality? Or did the world get too distracted with its own problems to look beyond Earth?

More importantly, did people become kinder? Did society learn from its mistakes? Did we finally find a way to balance progress with humanity, innovation with ethics? Or are we still making the same mistakes, just with more advanced technology?

I hope we got it right.

Are You at Peace?

At 100, what do you think about when you wake up? Do you still carry the same fire in your heart, or have you finally learned the art of contentment? Do you smile more often, laugh more freely, appreciate the simple things more deeply?

I hope you’ve come to terms with the things you couldn’t change, the dreams that didn’t materialize, and the roads you didn’t take. I hope you have no regrets about the things you did pursue, the risks you took, and the people you chose to keep close.

I hope you’ve forgiven yourself for the mistakes of the past and have found joy in the memories that remain.

Final Thoughts

Mazlan, if there’s one thing I want you to remember, even at 100, it’s this—life was never just about achievements, numbers, or titles. It was always about the people you touched, the lessons you shared, and the passion you lived with every day.

So, if you’re reading this with tired eyes but a heart full of stories, then I know you lived well.

And if by some miracle you still have the energy to pick up a pen, write back to me. Tell me what I got right. Tell me what I was wrong about. But most importantly—tell me that you’re happy.

With admiration,

Mazlan (the 64-year-old version of you)

If Money Was No Object, This is Where I’d Go on the Ultimate Tech Shopping Spree!

Where would you go on a shopping spree?

If I had the chance to go on a shopping spree, there’s no doubt where I’d be heading. It wouldn’t be a luxury clothing store, a high-end jewelry shop, or even an expensive car showroom. No, my ultimate shopping spree destination would be somewhere packed with the latest gadgets, smart devices, and cutting-edge tech accessories.

A Tech Enthusiast’s Paradise

Whenever I think about a shopping spree, my mind immediately jumps to tech stores—those magical places where the latest innovations are displayed, waiting to be explored. I have always been fascinated by gadgets, from smartphones to smart home devices, and everything in between. The thrill of unboxing a new device, feeling its sleek design, and setting it up for the first time is an experience like no other.

So, where exactly would I go if I had an unlimited budget to indulge in my passion? Well, let’s break it down.

1. Akihabara, Tokyo: The Mecca of Electronics

If there’s one place in the world that’s heaven for tech lovers, it’s Akihabara in Tokyo. Known as the “Electric Town,” this district is filled with multi-story electronic stores selling everything from smartphones and gaming consoles to rare tech accessories and futuristic gadgets.

I imagine myself walking into Yodobashi Camera, one of the largest electronic stores in Japan. With multiple floors dedicated to different types of gadgets, I could spend hours browsing the latest smartphones, smartwatches, and high-end laptops. The Japanese market often gets exclusive tech releases before the rest of the world, so I’d be on the lookout for something unique—maybe a Japan-exclusive Sony Xperia or a high-tech AI-powered robot assistant for my smart home.

Then, I’d explore the smaller, independent stores in Akihabara that sell niche and experimental gadgets. These are the places where you find rare accessories, quirky IoT devices, and even DIY smart home components. Imagine coming across a device that lets me automate my entire home in a way no standard smart home brand offers yet. That’s the beauty of Akihabara—it’s where the future of consumer electronics is born.

2. Apple Store, Fifth Avenue, New York

As much as I love discovering new brands and unique gadgets, there’s something about Apple products that I can’t resist. Walking into the Apple Store on Fifth Avenue in New York is like stepping into a futuristic world. The glass cube design, the minimalistic yet sophisticated setup—it’s an experience in itself.

Of course, I’d grab the latest iPhone Pro Max, fully spec’d out with the highest storage capacity. But my shopping spree wouldn’t stop there. I’d also get the latest iPad Pro with the Apple Pencil, perfect for jotting down notes and ideas on the go. Then there’s the MacBook Pro with M-series chips, a beast for multitasking, content creation, and managing my IoT-related projects.

And let’s not forget Apple accessories—AirPods Max for high-fidelity music, MagSafe chargers, and maybe even a few extra Apple Watches to match different outfits.

3. Dubai Mall: The Future of Smart Homes

If there’s one place where I’d upgrade my entire smart home setup, it’s Dubai Mall. This mall isn’t just about fashion and luxury; it has one of the most impressive selections of smart home tech. Stores like Virgin Megastore, Sharaf DG, and the official Samsung Experience Store have entire sections dedicated to IoT products.

I’d start with a Samsung Smart Fridge, which has a touchscreen panel that syncs with my smartphone and suggests recipes based on what’s inside. Then, I’d move on to a complete home automation system, upgrading my house with smart lighting, security cameras, and voice-controlled blinds.

Dubai is known for pushing tech to the limits, so I’d also check out smart mirrors that function as fitness coaches, AI-driven home assistants that make real-time recommendations, and maybe even a robot vacuum with built-in home surveillance.

4. Shenzhen, China: The Birthplace of Innovation

If I had to pick one last destination, it would be Shenzhen, China. This city is where the world’s best tech products are born before they hit global markets. I’d visit Huaqiangbei Electronics Market, the world’s largest electronics market, to hunt for prototype devices, future smart gadgets, and accessories that are yet to reach mainstream retail.

Imagine finding a foldable smartphone concept that no one has seen yet, an ultra-fast GaN charger that isn’t available outside China, or a wearable health sensor that detects early signs of illness using AI. That’s the beauty of Shenzhen—if it exists, you’ll find it here first.

The Joy of a Tech Shopping Spree

For me, a shopping spree isn’t about fashion, luxury brands, or expensive watches—it’s about gadgets, technology, and innovation. Whether it’s a flagship smartphone, a next-gen smart home setup, or experimental IoT devices, these are the things that excite me.

If I could, I’d spend days exploring Akihabara’s hidden tech stores, Apple’s latest innovations, Dubai’s futuristic smart home setups, and Shenzhen’s cutting-edge electronics markets. That would be my ultimate shopping spree—a journey through the most advanced and exciting tech hubs in the world.

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How “The Jetsons” Sparked My Lifelong Passion for Technology

“Can you imagine living in a world where cars fly, robots prepare your breakfast, and your boss talks to you through a giant video screen? Wait a minute…that sounds oddly familiar!”

As a young boy in the 1960s, glued to our old family television, watching The Jetsons was more than entertainment—it was my window into the future. Back then, it was nothing short of magical. A futuristic family living in Orbit City, navigating daily life with technologies that, to me, seemed pure fantasy. Fast-forward to today, and I realize how incredibly prophetic this cartoon actually was.

My First Encounter with the Future

“Eh, takkan lah manusia boleh cipta robot yang pandai masak sarapan?” I often asked myself skeptically.

In my childhood, my weekend routine revolved around television shows and comic books. Among the Batman comics and Superman TV series, The Jetsons stood out for a specific reason: it painted the future as something exciting, fun, and incredibly convenient. Unlike many dystopian or overly complicated portrayals of technology, The Jetsons gave me hope and wonder.

I would sit cross-legged in front of our bulky black-and-white TV set, amazed by flying cars, robots like Rosie, and video conversations that seemed impossibly futuristic. I remember vividly telling my mother:

“Mak, suatu hari nanti, orang mesti ada telefon yang boleh nampak muka orang lain!” She just laughed, probably thinking it was an impossible dream. Yet, here we are today, with video calls as common as a glass of water.

Predicting Technologies That Didn’t Yet Exist

“Biar betul? Cartoonists ni boleh ramal masa depan ke?”

What fascinated me most about The Jetsons wasn’t just the sleek aesthetics or the witty dialogues but how eerily accurate their predictions were. The cartoon first aired in 1962—decades before the internet, smartphones, or even personal computers became mainstream. Yet, astonishingly, they showcased technologies that closely mirror today’s innovations:

1. Drones and Autonomous Vehicles

I distinctly remember the excitement of seeing George Jetson commute to work in a flying autonomous vehicle. It seemed impossibly futuristic—no steering wheels, no pilots, just smooth automated flights. Fast-forward to now, and autonomous vehicles and drones are rapidly becoming mainstream. Companies like Tesla, Waymo, and countless drone startups are turning the once-cartoonish concept into reality.

2. Video Conferencing and Teleworking

Who could forget George Jetson’s daily arguments with his boss, Mr. Spacely, via a giant video screen? Even as a child, I wondered how amazing it would be to talk to someone face-to-face from afar. Decades later, platforms like Zoom, Microsoft Teams, and Google Meet have made this our everyday reality.

3. Smartwatches and Wearable Tech

One of my favorite gadgets from the cartoon was the smartwatch. George Jetson regularly spoke into his wristwatch, something I emulated with a toy watch. Today, devices like the Apple Watch enable voice communication and monitor health, provide notifications, and manage daily activities effortlessly. It feels surreal, like I’ve stepped straight into George Jetson’s life.

Robots in Daily Life: From Rosie to Reality

“Wow, imagine having a Rosie at home… I’d never have to clean my room again!”

Perhaps one of the most beloved elements of The Jetsons was Rosie, their family robot. Rosie wasn’t just a tool; she was part of the family, intelligent, helpful, and capable of conversation. Today, we see early glimpses of Rosie through voice assistants like Siri, Alexa, and Google Assistant. Companies like Boston Dynamics and Samsung are pushing boundaries even further, creating humanoid robots capable of performing household chores, providing care, and interacting with humans meaningfully.

I distinctly remember asking my mother, “Mak, one day kita boleh cakap dengan robot macam ni tak?” Again, it seemed impossible, but now, conversational AI is an integral part of our lives.

How The Jetsons Influenced My Career Path

“Mazlan, tengok cartoon je dah nak jadi saintis?” my parents chuckled when I expressed dreams of a technology-driven future.

Looking back, I realize how significantly this cartoon shaped my path. The whimsical portrayal of technology in The Jetsons not only inspired my interest in science fiction but also subtly guided me toward my career in telecommunications, IoT, and smart cities. I pursued electrical engineering and telecommunications and eventually became deeply involved in building smart cities—environments not unlike Orbit City, where IoT devices, smart transportation, and digital assistants simplify life.

When I founded FAVORIOT, a platform designed to empower IoT applications, the spirit of innovation and imagination instilled by The Jetsons was always at the forefront. I saw clearly how dreams from animated fiction could fuel real-world technological advancements.

A Visionary Cartoon That Still Inspires Today

“Tak sangka, cartoon yang aku tonton masa kecil dulu betul-betul jadi kenyataan hari ni.”

Revisiting the show today makes me marvel at its creators’ visionary minds. How did they manage to foresee so accurately? Was it pure creativity or a deeper understanding of technological trajectories?

In my opinion, The Jetsons succeeded because it tapped into universal human desires: convenience, connectivity, and curiosity. These remain consistent through decades, guiding technologists, innovators, and entrepreneurs alike. The show taught us to dream boldly and envision beyond current limitations.

Imagining Tomorrow’s Technologies Today

“Apakah lagi teknologi yang kita belum capai? Apa lagi yang boleh aku wujudkan?”

As a technologist deeply involved in IoT and smart cities, I often reflect on how fiction shapes reality. Today, when developing smart city initiatives or mentoring young innovators, I remind them how important imagination is. Every groundbreaking technology begins as a seemingly impossible idea.

What about the technologies from The Jetsons that we haven’t fully realized yet? The cartoon showed cities elevated above the clouds due to environmental challenges on Earth. Given the increasing urgency of climate change, such imaginative solutions might not remain fictional forever. Maybe vertical, sustainable cities aren’t as far-fetched as we once believed.

Encouraging the Next Generation to Dream Big

“Kalau cartoon pun boleh predict future, kenapa kita tak boleh cipta teknologi baru lagi hebat?”

To inspire today’s youth—just as The Jetsons inspired me—I constantly share this simple message: imagination has no limits. I challenge them to envision solutions for future problems because what is imagined today is tomorrow’s reality. My journey, from a fascinated kid sitting on the living room floor watching George Jetson to an IoT entrepreneur and technologist, is proof of this.

Now, every time I make a video call, glance at my smartwatch, or see news about autonomous vehicles, I smile silently.

It all started with a cartoon.

Who knew? Maybe Hanna-Barbera creators were the real visionaries.

What futuristic cartoon today will become the blueprint for tomorrow’s innovations? Until then, I’ll continue watching, imagining, and building the future inspired by The Jetsons.

The Last Thing I Learned

What is the last thing you learned?

I often wonder, “Mazlan, at your age, can you still learn something genuinely new?” Well, let me assure you—I absolutely can. Life, especially one intertwined with technology, has a delightful way of keeping even the most seasoned among us humble and curious.

The last thing I learned was about storytelling, not just any kind of storytelling, but storytelling through short-form video, specifically on TikTok. Now, you might be thinking, “TikTok? Mazlan, aren’t you a bit seasoned for that? Isn’t TikTok just dancing teenagers and trendy challenges?” Trust me, I had those exact thoughts myself.

Initially, TikTok felt like uncharted territory, almost alien. As someone who spent decades deeply entrenched in the corporate and academic worlds, making concise yet impactful short-form content was not exactly in my DNA. I was used to elaborate presentations, detailed explanations, and nuanced discussions. But one thing entrepreneurship has repeatedly taught me is adaptability—often the hard way.

It all started when I realised Favoriot needed a fresh, younger audience. We needed to explain IoT in simpler, more digestible chunks, without losing the essence. I asked myself, “Mazlan, how can you explain IoT to someone who might never have heard of it before—and do it in less than 60 seconds?”

At first, the process was a comedy of errors. I recorded my first TikTok in my home office, trying to cram every detail about IoT into a minute. The result? An awkward 59 seconds of rushed speech, complicated jargon, and an expression that clearly said, “I have no idea what I’m doing here.” After rewatching it, even I felt overwhelmed and confused.

“Okay, Mazlan, breathe,” I told myself. “This is just another learning curve—remember when you first encountered blogging? You stumbled, learned, and eventually thrived.” So, back to basics. I studied successful TikTok creators—not the viral dancers, but those who managed to educate effectively and authentically.

What stood out was their storytelling approach—short, focused messages packed with value and personal insight. So, I began scripting my content differently, focusing on just one clear, compelling message per video. Each clip became more straightforward, and I found myself developing a rhythm. I was no longer lecturing; instead, it felt like chatting casually with a curious friend.

And guess what? People started to respond. Comments like “Thank you, Dr. Mazlan, I finally understand IoT!” and “Never thought IoT could be so easy to grasp!” began trickling in. It was astonishing, and incredibly motivating.

The greatest lesson, however, wasn’t just about content creation. It was about humility and openness—recognising that regardless of your past achievements or age, stepping out of your comfort zone remains an essential part of growth. Learning TikTok reminded me that humility, adaptability, and persistence are vital companions in life.

Today, I’m regularly creating content on TikTok, and it genuinely brings me joy to simplify complex IoT concepts for wider audiences. Every new follower, every insightful comment reaffirms this lesson:

You’re never too experienced to learn something new, and the greatest innovations often come when we step into the unknown and embrace being beginners again. So, if you ever find yourself hesitating about exploring unfamiliar ground, remind yourself—”If Mazlan can do TikTok, surely you can take on anything!”