Mazlan Abbas

The Early Stumbles and Mess-Ups That Shape Us

Startup Stories

Mistakes that you can avoid, too!

The early stumbles and mess-ups that all founders encountered

Alright, let’s dive in and chat about this whirlwind adventure of diving headfirst into the IoT scene with my squad at MIMOS. You know, being under the wing of MOSTI really gave us that, “Yeah, we can totally revolutionize wireless tech,” kind of vibe. We were all about pushing the boundaries with the 6LoWPAN standards — like, who even knew what that was back then?

But let me tell you, jumping ship to the telecom sector was like swapping a comfy bean bag for a stiff office chair.

Launching our IoT platform under Favoriot in 2017?

Man, we were on cloud nine, picturing this tech-hungry market just waiting for a slice of IoT magic.

Turns out, it wasn’t all confetti and fanfare.

Now, let’s talk facepalm moments — seven of them, to be exact.

First off, we thought the talent pool was Olympic-sized, but when we dipped our toes in, it was more like a kiddie pool. Getting folks to jump on our platform was like trying to start a campfire in a downpour.

Then, we peered into the halls of academia, hoping to find IoT wizards in the making. Spoiler alert: IoT education was basically a chapter they skipped. Back to the drawing board, right?

And oh, our brilliant idea to use YouTube as a training ground for Favoriot?

Big oops there.

People craved real-deal courses, not just snack-sized tutorials.

Client onboarding was another story. Imagine trying to explain rocket science to your grandma — that was us with IoT to our clients. They needed that guiding star, and we were still fumbling with the telescope.

Budgeting was another beast. Picture a snail race — that was the pace of decision-making in these orgs. No one wanted to sign the check without knowing the full menu.

The lack of a project catalyst was like waiting for paint to dry. But then, good ol’ 2020 hit, and suddenly digital transformation wasn’t just a buzzword anymore. Thanks, Covid?

And those training opportunities we breezed past? If only we’d hit pause on coding and marketing and actually looked around. Hindsight, huh?

Wrapping this up, those facepalms?

Gold mines, each one. They schooled us big time.

Now, we’re riding the IoT wave like pros, all thanks to those early stumbles that turned into our roadmap.

So, here’s to the mess-ups that shape us — cheers to the lessons learned and the wins scored on this wild IoT ride.

Dubai Diaries: A Tale of Two Cities

My Travelogue

Lost in Time: Unraveling the Mysteries of Old and New Dubai

Let me tell you about my trip to Dubai …

It was like jumping straight into a sci-fi movie, but with a twist of history that just blew my mind.

Imagine standing under the shadow of the Burj Khalifa, feeling like an ant next to this towering giant.

It’s not just a building; it’s a statement, showing off what humans can achieve.

And then there’s the luxury — I felt like royalty stepping into the Burj Al Arab, even if just for a peek, and the Dubai Mall was like shopping in a small city!

But Dubai isn’t just about the glitz and glam.

I got to dive into some really cool, futuristic stuff too.

Visiting the Palm Jumeirah was like seeing a world map redrawn by humans.

And the Dubai Frame?

It’s this crazy picture frame that lets you see the old and new Dubai in one shot, literally framing the city’s transformation.

Now, the nightlife there is something else. Every night felt like a weekend, with endless bars and clubs buzzing with people from all over the globe. It’s this melting pot of cultures, and I loved the vibe — so welcoming and vibrant.

But here’s the thing: Dubai isn’t just this futuristic city; it’s got its soul in the old streets too. Wandering through the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, I felt like I’d time-traveled. The wind towers, the cobbled streets, and those cozy art galleries gave me a glimpse into a Dubai that once was, long before the skyscrapers.

The souks were a whole adventure on their own. Bartering in the Gold Souk and sniffing through the Spice Souk, I got a taste of the old-world charm. And the food! Oh, the food in the old city was just heartwarming — authentic Emirati dishes that made my taste buds dance.

Riding an abra on Dubai Creek was the cherry on top.

It’s like this simple, wooden boat cut through all the modernity and just floated me back in time.

So peaceful, yet so full of life.

So, yeah, Dubai is this incredible blend of then and now.

One minute I’m gawking at the tallest building in the world, and the next,

I’m sipping tea in a centuries-old alleyway.

It’s a place that shows you where humanity has been and where it’s going, all in one day.

And that, my friend, is why my trip to Dubai was absolutely unforgettable.

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Every Corner of Petra Seems Like a Movie Set

My Travelogue

A trip to ancient times

Petra – It’s like stepping back in time!

It’s this mind-blowingly beautiful place in Jordan that you’ve probably seen in pictures but trust me, they don’t do it justice.

Being there, in the flesh, walking through those ancient paths, was like stepping back in time.

First up, the historical vibes at Petra are just unreal.

It was the capital of the Nabataean Kingdom back in the day, and wandering around, you can really feel the weight of centuries on your shoulders.

It’s not just some old ruins; it’s a place where you can touch, feel, and experience history.

Then there’s the architecture – oh boy, the architecture! The Treasury, Al-Khazneh, is this massive, intricately carved facade right out of a sandstone cliff.

Standing in front of it, I was just awestruck, thinking about how they managed to create something so detailed and grand with the tools they had back then.

And it’s not just about the buildings and tombs; the whole setting of Petra is dramatic.

You walk through this narrow gorge called the Siq to get there, and it’s like the world outside just disappears.

The cliffs tower over you, and then suddenly, you’re in this open space, and there’s the Treasury, just like in the movies.

Speaking of movies, yeah, Petra’s been in a bunch, like “Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade.”

Walking around, I half expected Indy to come racing around a corner, being chased by bad guys.

The cinematic fame is well-deserved because every corner of Petra feels like a movie set.

But it’s not just a place for tourists and movie buffs.

Scholars and historians flock to Petra too, trying to unravel its secrets and understand more about the people who lived there.

It’s a live classroom for anyone interested in history, architecture, or archaeology.

For me, though, beyond all the history and architecture and movie fame, it was just the sheer, raw beauty of the place that struck me.

The colors of the rock, the vastness of the landscape, the quiet – it’s a place that stays with you long after you’ve left.

If I had to sum it up, I’d say Petra is more than just a travel destination; it’s an experience, a journey back in time, and an absolute feast for the senses.

You’ve got to see it to believe it.

Check out my other travel stories:

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Hobbiton – A Must-Visit Place for LOTR Fans

My Travelogue

It was a memorable trip to the mystical land!

Let me tell you about my epic trip to Hobbiton, right in the stunning Waikato region of New Zealand!

It’s like stepping straight into Middle-earth, and for a huge “Lord of the Rings” and “The Hobbit” fan like me, it was an absolute dream come true.

First off, wandering around those iconic Hobbit holes felt surreal.

I was half-expecting Frodo or Sam to pop out and invite me in for a cup of tea!

And the Green Dragon Inn? Absolutely magical. I grabbed a drink there and just soaked in the vibes, feeling like a real hobbit for a moment.

The scenery was out of this world – those lush, rolling hills and well-tended gardens were just like I imagined the Shire would be.

And the attention to detail? Mind-blowing. You can tell there’s so much love and care put into maintaining the place.

I also went on this guided tour, and the guide was so knowledgeable and passionate.

I learned heaps about how the movies were made, where specific scenes were shot, and all the little behind-the-scenes secrets that made me appreciate the films even more.

And guess what? They’ve got these unique accommodations nearby, so of course, I had to stay and extend the magic a bit longer.

Waking up to that serene, beautiful landscape was just what I needed.

For me, visiting Hobbiton was like connecting with a piece of cinematic history, a nod to the stories and characters I’ve adored for years.

Plus, it’s a photographer’s paradise. I took so many photos, I practically filled up my camera’s memory card!

They also host events there, and now I’m dreaming of maybe having a big celebration or something in Hobbiton one day. Imagine that!

All in all, my trip was unforgettable.

Whether you’re a die-hard Tolkien fan or just someone who loves exploring cool, picturesque places, Hobbiton is a must-visit.

Seriously, it’s every bit as magical as it sounds.

Check out my other travel stories:

https://mazlanabbas.com/every-corner-of-petra-seems-like-a-movie-set-4fc3efeee1ea https://mazlanabbas.com/every-corner-of-petra-seems-like-a-movie-set-4fc3efeee1ea https://mazlanabbas.com/every-corner-of-petra-seems-like-a-movie-set-4fc3efeee1ea

Poem: Journeys of the Heart

Travel Poem

In lands afar, across the sea and sky,

I ventured forth, my spirit riding high.

Each distant shore, with stories all its own,

In every face, a new world was shown.

From cobblestone streets bathed in history’s light,

To towering peaks under the stars at night,

Each journey taken, a brushstroke on the soul,

Painting a picture that makes one whole.

Amongst ancient ruins, under foreign suns,

I walked where empires’ tales were spun.

In bustling markets, scents and sounds entwine,

A symphony of life, uniquely divine.

Meeting eyes that spoke of untold tales,

In every smile, a friendship that prevails.

Language barriers, merely a thin veil,

Through genuine gestures, understanding would sail.

From the hush of deserts, vast and wide,

To verdant jungles, where mysteries reside,

Each landscape whispered secrets of its past,

In every moment, memories to last.

Learning cultures, rich and profound,

In every custom, common ground was found.

Dances, rituals, the pulse of life,

Amidst all differences, harmony was rife.

Breaking bread, in warmth and hospitality,

Shared human essence, transcending reality.

Seeing reflections of self in foreign eyes,

Realizing we share the same blue skies.

From icy fjords where silent waters speak,

To mountain villages, where peaks meet the meek,

Every sunset shared, a bond so deep,

In the tapestry of memory, woven to keep.

Through travels wide, understanding grew,

The beauty of diversity, ever true.

For every departure, an arrival within,

In the journey of life, we all kin.

So here’s to the roads, the seas, the skies,

To the endless horizons where our future lies.

May we carry the lessons from lands we roam,

And cherish them deeply, in the heart we call home.

Poem: Chapters of the Heart – A Lifelong Love

A Poem of Love

In the halls of youth where our journeys began,

Among the echoes of laughter, a timeless tale ran.

From the first shared glance in a crowded room,

We nurtured a love that would endlessly bloom.

Through the scribbled notes and stolen looks,

We wrote our story, not found in books.

With every passing day, our bond grew strong,

In a world of our own, where we belonged.

From the rush of youth to the calm of age,

Our love was the constant, through every stage.

Through triumphs and trials, joy and despair,

Our hearts remained one, an inseparable pair.

In the golden years, with our hair turned gray,

We reminisced about that first day.

The spark that ignited, so bright and warm,

Survived every storm, every reform.

With hands intertwined, we walked the path,

Guided by love, no aftermath.

From the bloom of youth to the autumn of life,

We stood together, husband and wife.

Our children grew, with wings to soar,

Leaving echoes of laughter, memories galore.

And then came the day, a new chapter to start,

Grandchildren arrived, joy of our heart.

In their eyes, we saw our past,

A love so profound, built to last.

Through their laughter, our legacy lived,

A testament to the love we always give.

Now here we sit, under the twilight sky,

Watching the stars, time passing by.

From the schoolyard days to the golden years,

Our journey was filled with shared cheers.

For in every wrinkle, every line,

Lies a memory, distinctly thine.

And as we gaze into the sunset, bright,

We know our love will endure the night.

So here’s to us, from start to end,

Lover, soulmate, and best friend.

From the moment we met, to our last breath,

Our love remains, beyond life, beyond death.

Breakfast with Keropok Lekor

Malaysian traditional dish

This morning was a bit special, you know. I decided to kick off my day with something uniquely Malaysian – keropok lekor.

For those who might not know, it’s this amazing traditional snack from Terengganu.

It’s fish sausage, but not your average kind, made from fish paste mixed up with sago or tapioca flour.

They season it just right with salt and sugar before shaping it into these long, enticing rolls or even slicing it up, and then they deep-fry it till it’s perfectly golden brown.

So there I was, sitting at my kitchen table with this plate of keropok lekor in front of me.

I had mine fried because I absolutely love that crispy texture on the outside, but it still keeps that slightly chewy goodness on the inside.

And you can’t have keropok lekor without its trusty sidekick – the dipping sauce.

It’s this tangy, spicy, sweet concoction made from chili, vinegar, and sugar that just elevates the whole experience.

Eating it, I swear, you get this burst of flavors that’s just so satisfying, especially with the contrast of the crunchy outside and the chewy inside.

It’s not your typical breakfast, I’ll give you that, but man, it was a delightful change from the usual.

Plus, starting your day with something so flavorful really sets a positive tone for the rest of the day.

And even though it’s traditionally a snack, I think keropok lekor can make any meal a bit more special.

Definitely a breakfast to remember! 😊

Poem: Undimmed by the Sun

Rising from Shadows

In the heart of night, where shadows loom and falter,

A soul whispers to the stars, unyielding, never to alter.

From the depths of despair, where silence reigns supreme,

Emerges a spirit, emboldened, chasing a dream.

Through the tapestry of failures, a resilient thread is spun,

A narrative of courage, undimmed by the sun.

Each setback, a lesson; each fall, a rise anew,

A journey of becoming, a path only a few pursue.

Amidst the tempests of doubt, a steadfast ship sails,

Guided by a heart that believes, where reason pales.

The waves of adversity, fierce and unkind,

Forge a will of steel, a resilient mind.

From the ashes of defeat, a phoenix takes flight,

Soaring above the clouds, a beacon of light.

In the crucible of hardship, character is made,

A testament to perseverance, that never shall fade.

Braving the storms, undeterred by the night,

Embracing the struggles, with all might.

In every scar, a story of victory is told,

A testament to bravery, bold and bold.

The summit beckons, with promises of new views,

A realm of possibilities, where dreams ensue.

Rising from the failures, a spirit reborn,

In the heart of hardship, a legend is born.

So march forth, intrepid soul, with hope as your guide,

Through the valleys of despair, with strides wide.

For in the end, it’s not the triumphs that we recall,

But the brave journey through hardships, standing tall.

Internet of Things (IoT) — Book Review by Mazlan Abbas

Excellent IoT book for business professionals

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Where do I start with “Building the Internet of Things” by Maciej Kranz?

This book landed in my hands at a time when IoT was more of a buzzword to me than a clear-cut concept.

It was like finding a treasure map that promised to guide me through the maze of the Internet of Things.

Right off the bat, Kranz dives into the meat of IoT, not just skimming the surface with technical jargon that would fly over the heads of mere mortals like myself.

He’s talking business, strategy, and implementation, and my inner voice is like, “Finally, someone who gets it!”

The book isn’t just a handbook; it’s a narrative that spins around the potential of IoT in a language that speaks directly to business decision-makers.

You know, the ones who nod along in meetings but are secretly wondering how IoT fits into their quarterly plans.

Kranz has this way of breaking it down, making you realize the vast opportunities IoT brings to the table.

And there I was, thinking, “This is it. This is the blueprint to revolutionize our business.”

Kranz doesn’t stop at just selling you the dream.

He walks you through crafting a tangible IoT strategy that aligns with your company’s goals.

It’s not about jumping on the bandwagon; it’s about steering your ship with precision in the IoT sea.

The book made me pause and reflect, “Is my organization ready to embrace this? How can we not just participate but lead in this new frontier?”

The use-cases sprinkled throughout the book are like mini lightbulb moments. T

hey’re not just hypothetical scenarios but real-world applications that show the ripple effect of IoT.

It’s as if Kranz is saying, “See, this isn’t just theory. It’s happening, and here’s how you can be a part of it.”

And let’s talk about the security aspect.

In an era where data breaches are more common than I’d like to admit, Kranz doesn’t shy away from the nitty-gritty of securing your IoT infrastructure.

It’s reassuring, to say the least.

My inner skeptic was like, “Ah, finally someone who’s not glossing over the potential pitfalls.”

Reading this book felt like having a mentor guiding me through the IoT landscape.

It’s not just about understanding IoT but about leveraging it to drive tangible business outcomes.

“Building the Internet of Things” isn’t just a read; it’s an action plan that prompts you to get up and start integrating IoT into your strategy now, not tomorrow.

To anyone hovering on the edges of IoT, wondering how to dive in, or even the seasoned professional looking to deepen their understanding, this book is a beacon.

It’s like Kranz is right there, cheering you on, saying, “You’ve got this. Here’s how you can turn disruption into profit.”

In conclusion, “Building the Internet of Things” is not just another book on my shelf. It’s a playbook that I find myself returning to, each time uncovering new insights.

It has shaped my approach to IoT in business, and I can’t help but think,

“What would I have done without this gem?”

If you’re in IoT or considering it, do yourself a favor and give this book a read. Trust me, your future self will thank you.

Get this book “Building the Internet of Things” from Amazon (Note: Affiliate link)

Book reviewed by Mazlan Abbas.

What Slows Down the Smart Cities Implementations in Malaysia?

The Smart City Winning Formula

If we think budget is the main issue… think again…

[Note: Click here to have FREE access to this member-only story]

Smart Cities….

Just saying it out loud has this futuristic vibe, doesn’t it?

Makes me picture this utopia where everything’s interconnected, efficient, and, well, smart.

I’ve been down this rabbit hole more times than I can count, dreaming up the endless possibilities.

But then, reality checks in, and boy, does it bring you back down to Earth with a thud.

Let’s chat about why it feels like we’re stuck in the mud when it comes to getting Smart City projects off the ground in some local councils or municipalities.

It’s like everyone’s excited to talk about the potential, but when it comes to action, it’s a whole different story.

The first roadblock?

Budget. Or rather, the lack of it. It’s the age-old problem, isn’t it? No money, no progress.

But who’s going to solve this puzzle?

It seems like a merry-go-round of pointing fingers and shrugging shoulders when it comes to planning and execution.

And let me tell you, it’s causing quite a bit of frustration among industry players and solution providers. They’re all dressed up with nowhere to go, so to speak.

After stewing over this for a while, a lightbulb moment happened. Maybe we’re approaching this all wrong.

Instead of getting hung up on the budget issue first, what if we focus on getting the right talent and expertise on board?

It’s like, solve this piece of the puzzle, and the rest will start falling into place.

Because, let’s be real, you need people who know their stuff to navigate through the complex web of Smart City projects.

Now, let’s take a step back and really look at what we’re up against.

Smart Cities aren’t just about slapping some tech onto old infrastructure. We’re talking smart traffic lights, environmental monitoring, river monitoring, waste management, smart parking… the list goes on.

These projects are complex and need a dedicated team to handle them.

Think about it.

Can the existing IT team, who previously were just managing the network and computers, suddenly morph into jack-of-all-trades handling these advanced projects?

It’s a bit of a stretch, isn’t it?

I mean, if massive corporations with their fancy Smart Building solutions need a specialized IT team, how can we expect a small municipal IT team to manage an entire city’s worth of smart solutions?

It’s pretty clear that the current setup in the councils isn’t cut out for this monumental task.

What we need is a revolution in the organizational structure, a specialized team whose sole focus is on making Smart Cities a reality, from planning and procurement to implementation, operations, and maintenance.

But here’s the kicker — how many local councils in Malaysia, or anywhere for that matter, have a dedicated Smart Cities Department?

If we’re still scratching our heads on that one, it’s high time for a change.

We need to rethink our approach and start building the foundations for these departments.

So, where does that leave us? Well, I’d like to end on a hopeful note.

The road to Smart Cities might be bumpy, filled with budget woes, and a bit of a logistical nightmare, but it’s not insurmountable.

With the right talent steering the ship, a clear focus, and a bit of restructuring, we can get there.

It’s about building smarter, not just dreaming about it.

Let’s start the conversation, rally the right people, and make those Smart City dreams a reality.

Author: Mazlan Abbas

The Early Stumbles and Mess-Ups That Shape Us

Startup Stories

Mistakes that you can avoid, too!

So, here’s to the mess-ups that shape us — cheers to the lessons learned and the wins scored on this wild IoT ride.

Dubai Diaries: A Tale of Two Cities

My Travelogue

Lost in Time: Unraveling the Mysteries of Old and New Dubai

And that, my friend, is why my trip to Dubai was absolutely unforgettable.

Check my other adventure stories:

Every Corner of Petra Seems Like a Movie Set

My Travelogue

A trip to ancient times

Check out my other travel stories:

Hobbiton – A Must-Visit Place for LOTR Fans

My Travelogue

It was a memorable trip to the mystical land!

Check out my other travel stories:

Poem: Journeys of the Heart

Travel Poem

Poem: Chapters of the Heart – A Lifelong Love

A Poem of Love

Breakfast with Keropok Lekor

Malaysian traditional dish

Poem: Undimmed by the Sun

Rising from Shadows

Internet of Things (IoT) — Book Review by Mazlan Abbas

Internet of Things (IoT) — Book Review by Mazlan Abbas

Excellent IoT book for business professionals

Get this book “Building the Internet of Things” from Amazon (Note: Affiliate link)

What Slows Down the Smart Cities Implementations in Malaysia?

The Smart City Winning Formula

If we think budget is the main issue… think again…

Because, at the end of the day, we’re all in this together, aiming for a future that’s a bit brighter, a bit smarter, and a whole lot more connected.

Startup Stories

Mistakes that you can avoid, too!

So, here’s to the mess-ups that shape us — cheers to the lessons learned and the wins scored on this wild IoT ride.

Share this:

My Travelogue

Lost in Time: Unraveling the Mysteries of Old and New Dubai

And that, my friend, is why my trip to Dubai was absolutely unforgettable.

Check my other adventure stories:

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My Travelogue

A trip to ancient times

Check out my other travel stories:

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My Travelogue

It was a memorable trip to the mystical land!

Check out my other travel stories:

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Travel Poem

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A Poem of Love

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Malaysian traditional dish

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Rising from Shadows

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Internet of Things (IoT) — Book Review by Mazlan Abbas

Excellent IoT book for business professionals

Get this book “Building the Internet of Things” from Amazon (Note: Affiliate link)

Share this:

The Smart City Winning Formula

If we think budget is the main issue… think again…

Because, at the end of the day, we’re all in this together, aiming for a future that’s a bit brighter, a bit smarter, and a whole lot more connected.

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