Category: Thought Leadership

My Mission: Democratizing IoT Education for the Future of Our Nation

I remember one time, a lecturer from a rural university sent me a short message:

“Dr., we don’t even have equipment in our lab. But the students really want to learn IoT. How do we even begin?”

I sat in silence.

In a world increasingly driven by technology, how can we still allow our students — passionate and eager — to learn about the Internet of Things (IoT) through only PowerPoint slides and theories on paper?

While major corporations talk about the Fourth Industrial Revolution, Industry 4.0, Artificial Intelligence, and digital transformation — our students are still struggling with the basics. They want to learn. They want to succeed. But who will help them?

Why I Chose This Path

I didn’t come from a wealthy family. I, too, experienced how difficult it is to learn technology without access to proper tools. But I was fortunate — I had the opportunity to experience the world of academia, the corporate world, a government agency, and now the startup world.

“Mazlan, wouldn’t it be easier to just focus on corporate sales? That’s more profitable.”

I hear this often. But my heart is heavy.

Because I believe if we don’t equip our educators and students with real-world knowledge and skills, we’ll continue producing graduates who only know theory, but lack hands-on experience.

I want to change that.

I want to democratize IoT education.

What Does ‘Democratize’ Mean to Me?

To me, the meaning is clear:

✅ Every educational institution, regardless of location or ranking, must have access to a fully equipped IoT lab.

✅ Every lecturer and technical instructor must be properly trained to teach IoT confidently and effectively.

✅ Every student, whether in polytechnics, community colleges, or top-tier universities, must experience building real-world IoT projects.

This is the mission I carry with my team at FAVORIOT.

FAVORIOT – The People’s Platform for IoT Education

We built a homegrown IoT platform that is not only user-friendly and secure, but also purposefully designed for education.

We don’t just sell technology.

We go to the ground.

We train lecturers, provide them with IoT certification courses, and supply complete modules that they can immediately use in their syllabus.

We help students with their final year projects — whether in engineering, smart agriculture, smart logistics, or environmental monitoring.

We collaborate with researchers who need real-time data for their R&D, whether for Master’s or PhD theses.

And we do all this with a spirit of sharing knowledge, not just pushing products.

Silently Cried When I Received This Photo…

One day, I received a photo from a polytechnic in Sabah.

It showed students sitting in front of computers. On their screens, the FAVORIOT dashboard displayed temperature data from an IoT project they had built themselves using low-cost sensors and WiFi.

But that wasn’t what made me emotional.

The lecturer told me — previously, students only learned theory. They had never even touched a sensor. But now, not only did they build a functioning system, they also confidently presented their results to an industry panel.

That — to me — is more valuable than any revenue.

The Challenges Are Real… But the Mission Is Bigger

Sometimes I ask myself:

“Is this effort big enough to change the educational landscape of our country?”

“Do people really see how important it is to build IoT foundations at the student level?”

Many are more fascinated by AI, blockchain, or other advanced tech. But I know — without IoT, where would AI get real-world data? Without understanding sensors and connectivity, how would we build smart solutions?

IoT is the root system of digital transformation. And education is the fertile soil in which we must plant that seed.

My Dream: Every Institution with Its Own IoT Lab

Imagine one day…

🔧 Every polytechnic and community college has a fully operational IoT lab, complete with real-time dashboards and training modules.

🎓 Every engineering or ICT student graduates with a fully built and presented IoT project.

👨‍🏫 Every lecturer receives official certification as an IoT trainer and can confidently teach the subject.

📊 Every university integrates industry-ready IoT content into their syllabus, using a locally developed platform – FAVORIOT.

And finally… 🇲🇾 Malaysia becomes a regional hub for IoT talent, respected for nurturing the next generation with real-world skills, not just theory.

Final Words – I Will Not Stop

I know this isn’t a one-day mission.

I know it will take time, effort, and patience.

But I also know — if we don’t start now, we’ll keep falling behind.

To all educators, lecturers, students, and researchers out there…

I extend my hand.

Let us build an IoT education ecosystem together.

For our youth.

For our nation’s future.

And for a smarter, fairer world.

“Mazlan, why keep going even when not many notice your efforts?”

Because I was once a student who could only dream of learning real technology.

And I don’t want the next generation to only dream — I want them to build their dreams into reality.

The Birth of “IoT Man”: Why the Name Means More Than Just a Title

“You can call me IoT Man.”

That was the casual yet defining moment when I embraced the name—not just as a label but as a symbol of everything I’ve poured into it.

But before that nickname ever stuck, before anyone even recognized my face or my voice in the realm of smart cities and connected devices, I was just a curious kampung boy who loved science fiction, obsessed with The Jetsons, and dreamt of a future where machines talked to each other.

I didn’t know it then, but that fantasy would eventually become my destiny.

The Spark That Ignited It All

In the 70s, I grew up with dusty comics, DC superheroes, and futuristic cartoons that seemed out of reach. I was always asking questions: “How does that work?”, “What if buildings could talk?”, “Why can’t my bicycle tell me when its tire is flat?” You know… typical “crazy kid” questions no one took seriously.

But I took them seriously.

Years later, that same boy became an engineer, researcher, and executive, hopping across universities, government agencies, and corporate towers. I had the titles and the recognition—and yet, I felt something was missing.

I wasn’t building the future I dreamed about.

Until I stumbled upon three letters that changed everything: IoT.

To me, the Internet of Things wasn’t just a buzzword. It was the missing puzzle piece. It was like someone finally handed me the blueprint of the world I used to imagine as a child.

I dove headfirst into it. It became an obsession. No, scratch that — it became a mission.

Why the Name “IoT Man” Chose Me

People often ask me, “Did you give yourself that name?” No, I didn’t. It started as a whisper on social media.

I was posting daily. Articles, LinkedIn updates, tweets, TikToks — all about IoT. I shared failures, ideas, insights, and case studies. Some people rolled their eyes. “Dia ni tak habis-habis cerita pasal IoT.”

Others started to notice.

One day, someone tagged me in a post and wrote, “Here comes the IoT Man again.” At first, I chuckled. “Macam superhero pulak.”

But then it stuck. People started calling me that — students, entrepreneurs, CEOs, even strangers at conferences. I would introduce myself, and they’d say, “Oh! You’re the IoT Man!”

And honestly?

It warmed my heart every single time.

Because it meant they saw me, they saw what I stood for, and they recognized the fire I carried.

Why It’s More Than Just a Nickname

You see, “IoT Man” isn’t just a personal brand.

It’s a reminder that in a world flooded with noise, consistency still matters. If you keep showing up, keeping writing, and keeping sharing, people will notice.

It’s a tribute to every sleepless night I spent building FAVORIOT from scratch with a small team and big dreams, to every time I was told, “Malaysia’s not ready for IoT,” or “Smart Cities won’t work here.”

It’s a badge earned through trials, through countless rejections, postponed projects, budget cuts, technical failures, and platform bugs, and through restarting when others gave up.

“But what if this doesn’t work?” I often asked myself during those quiet, lonely moments.

“Then I’ll try again tomorrow,” I’d reply.

The name “IoT Man” represents that spirit.

The Responsibility That Comes With It

Being known as the “IoT Man” also means people expect answers, solutions, and inspiration.

And that’s not something I take lightly.

That’s why I started sharing knowledge for free through podcasts like Jom Pakai IoT, articles, TikTok videos, and books. I also train others, mentor startups, and advise universities.

Because I’m not just building a company. I’m building a movement.

A movement to make IoT accessible. To make Malaysia a global hub of smart innovations. To show the kampung boy in every corner of the country that yes, you can shape the future too.

Legacy Over Popularity

I don’t want to be remembered just as a CEO or engineer.

I want to be remembered as the guy who sparked a generation.

The one who didn’t just talk about the future — but built it.

The one who lifted others along the way, who simplified the complex, who wore the “IoT Man” cape not for show but to carry the hopes of students, makers, entrepreneurs, and dreamers.

Because at the end of the day, all I ever wanted was to make a difference.

Final Reflection: A Name, A Mission

Sometimes, I look in the mirror and ask myself, “Are you still worthy of that name?”

Some days, I feel I’ve done enough, and most days, I feel like I’m just getting started.

So, if you see me online or bump into me at a café or tech event, don’t hesitate to say hi. Just say, “Hey, IoT Man!”

I’ll smile. And I’ll know that the journey — every twist, every fall, every leap — has been worth it.

Because that name is no longer just about me.

It belongs to the mission.

And the mission still burns bright.

— Mazlan Abbas, your friendly neighborhood IoT Man. Let’s transform the world together!

If I Could Be a Character from a Book or Film, I Would Be Professor Charles Xavier — Here’s Why

“Mazlan, of all the characters in the literary and cinematic universe, why would you choose someone in a wheelchair?”

That’s the first question that popped into my head. And honestly, it’s the kind of self-interrogation I often indulge in when I stumble upon a simple question with unexpectedly deep layers.

Yes. If I could be a character from a book or film, I would be Professor Charles Xavier — the founder of the X-Men, the brilliant mind behind the Cerebro machine, and the one who saw potential in those whom the world feared. Not Iron Man with his billions. Not Batman with his vengeance. Not even the charming Sherlock Holmes. But Charles Xavier, the bald telepath who sat in a wheelchair and built a school that became a sanctuary.

Let me tell you why.

The Power to Influence Minds — Not Control, But Guide

Professor X didn’t just read minds. He empathized. He understood. And he used his powers not to dominate but to educate and elevate others.

Isn’t that what I’ve been doing all my life?

When I was lecturing in universities, building IoT platforms, or even writing these articles, I was not here to force ideas. I’m here to plant seeds. Maybe even open doors that others didn’t realize existed. Much like Charles Xavier did for hiding, scared, or rejected mutants.

He never wanted them to suppress their uniqueness — he wanted them to harness it.

I thought this sounded a bit like how I feel when someone discovers the magic of IoT for the first time.

The Leader Who Built Others to Lead

Something about Charles Xavier’s leadership style has always resonated with me. He wasn’t the one on the front lines throwing punches. He was the strategist, the mentor, and the visionary who built an environment where others could thrive.

When I started FAVORIOT, I didn’t want to build a business myself. I wanted to build a platform—literally and metaphorically—a place where startups, students, and developers could create, innovate, and solve real-world problems using IoT.

That dream wasn’t just about tech. It was about empowerment.

Like the Xavier Institute for Gifted Youngsters, FAVORIOT became a space for hidden talents to shine. Not everyone sees themselves as a hero, but with the proper guidance, they could become one.

Yes, Xavier didn’t fight every battle but enabled others to win wars.

Living with Limitations, Thriving Despite Them

Let’s talk about the wheelchair. It’s not a weakness. It’s a symbol. Of resilience. Of a man who, despite his physical limitations, carried the weight of the world’s rejected children on his shoulders.

“Would you really choose a character who’s paralyzed?”

Yes. Because strength isn’t in the limbs — it’s in the will.

I’ve also faced moments where I felt limited. Whether by corporate bureaucracy, academic red tape, or just plain disbelief from others who didn’t see the future I saw, there were many days when it felt like I was rolling uphill. But I kept moving forward.

I learned to surround myself with others who believed in the mission — just like Xavier did.

The Struggle Between Hope and Realism

What makes Xavier compelling is his constant moral dilemma. He believes in peaceful coexistence between mutants and humans. But he also knows that the world isn’t always ready to change. His long-time friend-turned-nemesis, Magneto, is a living reminder of what happens when hope turns into cynicism.

Have I ever been Magneto? I ask myself.

Maybe. In the moments when I felt the system failed us—when smart city projects were abandoned halfway or when innovation was stifled by bureaucracy—I felt rage, but I always pulled myself back.

Because I still believe in dialogue over domination and in partnerships over power plays.

Xavier always believed people could change. And so do I.

The Legacy of a Teacher

If there’s one thing that makes Xavier immortal, it’s not his telepathy. It’s his students. Cyclops. Jean Grey. Storm. Wolverine. Nightcrawler. Every one of them carried a piece of him, not just in their tactics, but in their principles.

I remember my students, too—the ones who now work in top tech firms, the ones who built startups, and the ones who still message me to say, “Dr. Mazlan, your IoT class changed my life.”

Isn’t that what every teacher lives for?

A legacy not built with bricks or code but with minds inspired and hearts ignited.

Why Not Someone Else?

I could’ve picked Tony Stark — he’s got the gadgets and flair. Or maybe Bruce Wayne — the detective with a moral code. Or even Gandalf, with his wisdom and beard.

But they didn’t build people. They didn’t create platforms that empowered others to grow beyond their shadows.

Charles Xavier did.

And that’s what I want to be remembered for.

A Fictional Character with a Real-World Impact

Do you know what’s funny? Charles Xavier might be fictional, but his spirit lives in every mentor, every teacher, every visionary who sees beyond the surface.

He lives in school principals who believe in troubled students, leaders who nurture instead of command, engineers who share knowledge freely, and writers who plant thoughts like time bombs in the reader’s mind.

Maybe even in me.

Final Thoughts from the Cerebro Room

If I had Cerebro, I wouldn’t use it to invade minds. I’d use it to listen.

I want to find the girl in Penang who wants to solve traffic with smart sensors but doesn’t know where to start.

I want to find the boy in Johor who thinks coding is challenging but could build the next big IoT solution with a little nudge.

To amplify the unheard and guide the uncertain.

That’s the Professor X I admire.

That’s the character I’d choose to be.

Not because he’s the most powerful.

But because he made others powerful.

What Makes a Person Truly Unique?

As someone who has spent decades navigating the academic world, corporate boardrooms, government agencies, and startup trenches, I’ve come to realise that what makes a person truly unique is not just one defining trait but a combination of mindset, experience, and passion.

It’s the signature blend of your past, values, and vision for the future.

Let me break it down through my own lens—through personal stories, reflections, and the questions I’ve asked myself.

1. The Journey You Choose (or Endure)

“Why did I move from academia to government, then to corporate, and finally to building my startup?”

Many thought I was indecisive. But I saw it differently. Each step gave me a new superpower.

  • In academia, I learned how to think deeply and teach simply.
  • In government, I saw how policy can impact innovation nationally.
  • In corporate, I experienced the pace of execution and the demand for ROI.
  • In startup life, I learned humility, agility, and how to survive with little but dream big.

Not everyone chooses this “multiverse” path, but embracing it made me unique. I carried lessons from each world into the next.

2. How You React to Failure

“Mazlan, you left a comfortable job to start something uncertain?”

Yes—and I failed more times than I can count. But here’s the thing: I never let failure define me. Instead, I documented, reflected, and shared.

Every rejection, every “no,” became fuel for the next attempt.

What’s unique is not that you fail but how you rise from it—with clarity, grace, and a story others can learn from.

3. Your Obsession

“You’re still talking about IoT after all these years?”

Absolutely. I eat, sleep, and breathe IoT—not because it’s trendy but because I believe it can change lives. Even now, I run FAVORIOT to democratise IoT and make it accessible for students, startups, and governments.

Obsession—when combined with purpose—is what sets someone apart. It’s the thing you can’t shut off. You read about it, dream about it, and keep pushing the boundaries.

That’s the heartbeat of uniqueness.

4. The Way You Communicate

I once blogged about gadgets. Then, I pivoted to writing about technology, leadership, and storytelling. Today, I use WordPress, LinkedIn, podcasts, and even TikTok to reach different audiences.

Why?

I realised that what makes my voice unique isn’t just my technical knowledge but how I simplify it, narrate it, and humanise it.

People don’t remember jargon. They remember stories, analogies, and emotions. If you can make someone say, “Now I get it,” you’ve done something special.

5. The Values You Don’t Compromise

I’ve had opportunities that promised more fame, money, or power throughout my career. But I always asked myself:

“Is this aligned with what I believe?”

I don’t play politics. I don’t sell out. I don’t cut corners. I treat my team like family, and I lead with empathy.

In a world of copy-paste personalities, your principles become your fingerprint.

6. What You Do When No One’s Watching

In my quiet moments, I read articles from new writers, reply to comments, and refine my writing. I write even when no one reads because consistency builds credibility.

“But no one reads your articles.”

I kept writing anyway. Until one day—people did.

Your uniqueness is often born in the shadows, when no one claps, shares, or notices.

And still—you show up.

7. How You Inspire Others

I don’t just want to build a business. I want to develop people.

That’s why I mentor students, share my lessons, and give talks—even to small audiences. That’s why I created FAVORIOT Academy—to train the next generation of IoT professionals.

You become unique by climbing the ladder and extending your hand to those below you.

8. Your Curiosity and Lifelong Learning

Even today, I explore new platforms, write new articles, and learn from people much younger than me.

“Why are you still experimenting?”

Curiosity is a fire that never retires. The moment you stop learning, you become static. I choose to evolve—even at 64.

Uniqueness comes from the courage to keep updating yourself and stay relevant not by age but by adaptability.

9. Your Ability to Connect Across Generations

I often speak to university students, young engineers, and even teenagers on TikTok. Some are surprised—“Dr. Mazlan, you’re on TikTok?”

Yes, and I love it.

If you can speak every generation’s language, whether through blog posts or memes, you become a bridge. That connection—not just knowledge—is what makes someone unforgettable.

10. How You Turn Passion Into Impact

I don’t work on IoT just to build cool gadgets. I do it to solve real problems, from smart agriculture to healthcare, education, and even energy management.

Passion becomes power when you channel it into something greater than yourself.

When your work serves others, your uniqueness becomes your legacy.

A Personal Formula

If you ask me to define what makes a person unique, I’d say:

Uniqueness = (Journey + Failure + Obsession + Voice + Values + Discipline + Impact + Curiosity + Communication + Empathy) x Authenticity

You don’t need to be the smartest or the loudest in the room.
You just need to be the most you.

So, find your intersection.
Share your scars.
Own your quirks.
Speak your truth.

The world doesn’t need another replica.
It needs your story—told your way.

“Mazlan, what makes you unique?”

I’d say it’s because I’m still learning, experimenting, and daring to dream… even after all these years.

What Would I Want Named After Me? I Never Asked for a Title, But They Gave Me One Anyway

“Do you want something named after you, Dr. Mazlan?”

That question caught me off guard.

Not because it was unexpected — people love giving names to legacies, buildings, awards, even algorithms. But because deep inside, I never asked for any of it.

You see, I’m just a man who fell in love with technology. Not for fame. Not for glory. But because I truly believed it could make lives better.

Yet, along the way… names started sticking.

From “Dial-a-Coke” to Global Conferences

Let me rewind to the early 2000s.

I worked in the telecommunications industry back then—CELCOM Axiata, to be specific. This was long before the word “IoT” entered mainstream vocabulary. Yet even then, we were already experimenting with early machine-to-machine (M2M) communication forms.

One of our most exciting innovations at the time was a Coke vending machine that could be triggered by SMS.

“Wait… you mean you can buy a drink just by texting a number?”

Yes, precisely that. The concept was called “Dial-a-Coke.” You send a text, and it deducts the amount from your mobile credit. Voila, a cold can drop out of the machine.

Was it revolutionary? For that time — absolutely.

But to me, it wasn’t about being revolutionary. It was about solving problems in simple ways using connectivity. That mindset never left me.

IoT: A Journey of Passion, Not Titles

Fast-forward to 2013. That’s when I began immersing myself even more seriously into IoT—this time not just as a technologist but also as a speaker, writer, researcher, and eventually, entrepreneur.

Everywhere I went, I would talk about IoT.

At conferences. In classrooms. On stage. Off stage. At coffee shops. In boardrooms.

The energy never ran out. In fact, it grew stronger every time I saw someone’s eyes light up with an “Aha!” when they understood what IoT could do for their lives or business.

Radio interviews followed, then television. Podcasts. Newspapers. Magazines. Even my children rolled their eyes when I’d go into another “IoT monologue” during dinner.

Then came the birth of FAVORIOT — a company built to democratise IoT for developers, enterprises, and even students.

It wasn’t just business. It was my passion translated into a platform.

And Then, They Started Calling Me…

One day after a seminar, someone walked up to me and said,

“Dr. Mazlan, you’re like the Father of IoT in Malaysia.”

I laughed. A little awkwardly, I must admit.

Because if anyone deserves that title globally, it’s Kevin Ashton — the man who coined the term the “Internet of Things. I’ve always credited him for that.

But the person insisted,

“You’ve been advocating this in Malaysia longer than anyone I know. You make people understand IoT in a simple, practical way. That’s a gift.”

And slowly… it started spreading.

Father of IoT Malaysia.

Was it official? No.
Was it universally agreed? Probably not.
Was it something I asked for? Never.

But I accepted it—not for the ego—but for what it represents: a shared belief that maybe, just maybe, I had helped lay some of the digital foundations in this country’s IoT journey.

TikTok, Branding, and a Name That Stuck

In 2022, I did something unexpected — I joined TikTok.

Yup, at the age when most people would be watching TikTok videos, I started making them.

My handle? @iotman2030.

Why 2030? People often ask.

Simple. Because I wanted the technology I championed to be relevant by then.

“What if you just used @iotman2022 or 2023?”

Well, that would age too quickly, wouldn’t it? Who wants to be known by a handle that feels like it expired with last year’s tech trends?

Since then, “IoT Man” has become another name people have started calling me. Some jokingly, some with admiration, but it stuck.

I never corrected anyone. Because, in a way, it perfectly captured who I was and what I stood for.

So, If I Could Name Something After Me…

Honestly? I wouldn’t.

I believe names should be earned by impact, not intent.

But if someone else names something after me—maybe a scholarship, an award, or a lab—I just hope it’s for the right reasons.

That it inspires young minds to build the next generation of connected solutions.
That it reminds people how persistence, curiosity, and belief can shape an entire career.
That it stands for passion without ego.

And maybe it helps a few dreamers realize that technology isn’t just about wires and sensors. It’s about people.

A Legacy Beyond the Name

I never started this journey wanting to be known as anything.

Not the Father of IoT.
Not IoT Man.
Not even Dr. Mazlan the Technologist.

But I did want to make a difference.

And if making a difference earns me a name, then so be it.

Let it not be a pedestal but a platform.
Let it not be a brand but a bridge.

Because names will fade, but impact — that lingers.

So, if you ever hear someone call me Father of IoT Malaysia or IoT Man, just know —
It’s not about me.
It’s about the mission.

And that mission? Still going strong.

Even in 2030.

Everyone Wants the Spotlight. Few Are Willing to Wait for It

What’s Something Most People Don’t Understand?

Most people don’t understand how long it takes to build something meaningful.

Even after all these years, people still think things happen overnight.
They see the highlight reels. They see the LinkedIn success stories. They see the awards, the recognition, the partnerships. And they say— “Wow, you’re lucky.”

But they don’t see what happens behind the scenes.

When I co-founded FAVORIOT, I wasn’t stepping into a shiny, ready-made startup with capital pouring in and clients lining up at the door. No, it was the opposite. I entered a tiny room with big dreams, minimal funding, and zero guarantees.

I had to reset my ego.
After holding senior positions at MIMOS and CELCOM, I was now doing everything—research, customer support, marketing, writing blog posts, uploading YouTube videos, conducting training, chasing potential clients, and even troubleshooting hardware late at night. I was a CEO, but I was also the janitor.

That’s what most people don’t understand.

They think success is linear.
They think you just launch a product and are suddenly on a TED stage.
They don’t see the years of trial and error, the failed pitches, the near-burnouts, and the countless self-doubts.

I still remember attending an international Smart Cities conference years ago. Delegates were surprised when I told them we were a small team from Malaysia, building our own IoT platform. Some of them didn’t even believe it. They asked, “But how did you build it? Don’t you need a huge team? Venture capital?” I smiled and said, “No. We built it because we believed we could.”

Belief is underrated. And persistence—even more so.

People underestimate how long you must persist when nothing seems to work.

I wrote blog after blog when no one was reading.
I spoke at conferences when no one knew my name.
I kept talking about IoT and Smart Cities when the market didn’t understand IoT.

Even on Medium, when I started writing actively in 2023, I wasn’t writing for an audience. I was writing because I had something to say, something to teach, something to reflect on.

Some articles flopped. Others resonated deeply. But most people only see the few that succeeded—they don’t see the hundred others that didn’t.

They don’t understand the patience it takes to outlast the silence.

Let’s talk about time.
People think one or two years is enough time to build a company, an audience, or a movement.

But FAVORIOT has been around since 2017.
We didn’t become known overnight.
We had to win trust, prove our value, build case studies, make mistakes, recover from them, and try again. Again. And again.

It’s like planting a seed. You don’t dig it up every week to check if it’s growing. You water it, give it sunlight, and trust that one day it will break through the soil. But that trust? That takes faith. That’s the part most people struggle with.

“Why isn’t it growing yet?”
“Why is no one noticing me?”
“Maybe I’m not good enough.”

Believe me—I’ve had those thoughts, too.
I’ve looked at competitors with massive followings and felt small.
I doubted whether I was too old to do this startup thing.
I’ve wondered if people even cared about what I was trying to build.

But each time, I returned to the same answer:
Because I care.

I care about helping people learn about IoT.
I care about giving Malaysians a home-grown IoT platform.
I care about empowering universities, cities, and entrepreneurs with technology that works.

I realized that most people don’t need motivation. They need understanding.
Understanding that the journey will be extended.
It’s okay to feel invisible at first.
That mastery takes years.
Most “overnight successes” are 10 years in the making.

So here’s what I want you to remember:

  • You don’t need everyone to understand your journey.
  • You just need to understand it yourself.
  • And you need to commit to showing up, even when no one’s clapping.

Because one day, someone will ask you, “How did you do it?”
And you’ll smile, knowing they won’t really understand until they walk the same path.

But maybe, just maybe, they’ll listen a little closer.
And perhaps that will inspire them to start their own long, messy, beautiful journey.

And that’s enough.

Now, back to work. The journey continues.

The Power of Saying “No” to Protect Your Goals

I used to struggle with saying “no.” Opportunities, invitations, and requests would pile up, and I was constantly stretched thin. Every time I turned down something, it felt like I was missing out on an experience, a potential collaboration, or a chance to prove myself.

But over time, I learned something crucial—saying “yes” to everything meant saying “no” to my own priorities. That realization changed everything.

The Illusion of Opportunity

It’s easy to believe that more opportunities equal more success. Early in my career, I had this mindset. I accepted every speaking engagement, every meeting, every project—thinking that the more I did, the faster I’d reach my goals.

But something felt off. My time was constantly divided, and I wasn’t making meaningful progress on what truly mattered. My passion for IoT, my vision for FAVORIOT, and even my writing—everything was diluted because I wasn’t focused.

Was I really advancing, or was I just keeping busy?

It was a tricky question, but I knew I had to answer it honestly. And the answer was clear: I was busy, but I wasn’t productive.

The Turning Point: Learning to Say “No”

One of my mentors once told me, “Every time you say yes to something, you are saying no to something else.” That hit me hard.

I looked at my commitments and realized how many were distractions in disguise. They seemed valuable, but were they truly aligned with my long-term goals? Most of them weren’t.

That’s when I started consciously trying to say “no.”

  • No to meetings without a clear purpose.
  • No to projects that didn’t align with my expertise or vision.
  • No to social events that drained my energy.
  • No to collaborations that felt forced.

At first, it felt uncomfortable. Would people think I was rude? Would I miss out on something valuable? But then something surprising happened—I felt relieved.

For the first time in a long while, I had the mental clarity to focus on what truly mattered.

The Freedom of a Focused “Yes”

Saying “no” isn’t about shutting doors—it’s about opening the right ones. When I started protecting my time, my work improved. I had more energy to dedicate to building FAVORIOT. I could write with a deeper focus. I had space to think creatively, to strategize, to innovate.

Instead of chasing every opportunity, I started choosing the right opportunities. And that made all the difference.

When I said “yes” to something, it was a focused yes that truly aligned with my goals.

  • Yes to speaking engagements that positioned me as a thought leader in IoT.
  • Yes to partnerships that had long-term potential.
  • Yes to writing consistently and sharing insights with my audience.
  • Yes to mentoring people who truly valued my guidance.

By filtering my commitments, I became more valuable, not less. People respected my time more. My work had a more significant impact. And most importantly, I felt fulfilled.

The Discipline of Saying “No”

Saying “no” is a skill that requires practice. It’s easy to slip back into the habit of overcommitting. But I remind myself of a simple rule:

If it doesn’t move me closer to my goals, it’s not a priority.

Now, before I agree to anything, I ask myself:

  • Does this align with my long-term vision?
  • Will this add significant value to my mission?
  • Am I doing this out of obligation or genuine interest?

If the answer is “no,” then my response is clear.

The Cost of Saying “Yes” Too Often

Many people fear saying “no” because they don’t want to disappoint others. But the real danger is saying “yes” too often and disappointing yourself.

Saying “yes” to unnecessary things leads to:

  • Burnout – Overcommitting drains your energy.
  • Lack of progress – You stay busy but don’t move forward.
  • Resentment – You start feeling frustrated because your time is no longer yours.

I’ve been there. I’ve learned that protecting my time isn’t selfish—it’s necessary.

The Impact on My Life

Since adopting this mindset, I’ve achieved things I never thought possible. FAVORIOT has grown, my writing has reached thousands, and I’ve had the chance to collaborate with impactful people.

Not because I did everything—but because I did the right things.

Saying “no” is one of the most powerful tools for success. It allows you to protect your goals, stay focused, and make meaningful progress.

So, how often do I say “no” to things that interfere with my goals?

As often as necessary.

The Hard Truth About IoT Startups: Lessons from My Failures

I Failed at Building an IoT Business Before Succeeding. Here’s What I Learned.

“This is it. This idea will work. I can see it changing the world.”

That was my mindset years ago when I first stepped into the world of IoT entrepreneurship. I was confident—too confident, perhaps. With decades of experience in the industry, I thought I had the perfect combination of knowledge, network, and credibility to launch a successful IoT business.

I believed that if I built the right solution, the market would naturally embrace it. After all, IoT was the buzzword at every tech conference, and businesses were talking about the potential of connected devices.

But reality? It had a very different lesson in store for me.

The First Failure: Overestimating Market Readiness

I started FAVORIOT with the assumption that businesses and government agencies were fully prepared to adopt IoT solutions. The Smart City vision was gaining traction, and industry leaders were excited about automation, data-driven decision-making, and real-time monitoring.

So, with high hopes, I built my first IoT solution. I expected clients to immediately recognize its value. But when I went out to pitch my idea, I was met with hesitation, skepticism, and endless bureaucratic challenges.

“Why aren’t they jumping at this? Can’t they see how valuable this technology is?”

The problem wasn’t the technology—it was the mindset. Many organizations were still unsure about IoT. They didn’t fully understand how it worked, they feared implementation risks, and most importantly, they didn’t have dedicated budgets for IoT initiatives. To them, IoT was still an experimental concept, not a necessity.

This was my first painful realization: Just because something is revolutionary doesn’t mean people are ready for it. I had to find a way to bridge the gap between technological potential and real-world adoption.

The Second Failure: Underestimating the Sales Process

“If the product is good, it will sell itself.”

That was a dangerous assumption. I thought that once people saw my IoT solution in action, they would be convinced. After all, logic and data should win, right? But I quickly realized that people don’t just buy technology—they buy trust, relationships, and clear return on investment.

I spent months refining my IoT platform, making sure it was technically superior. But I wasn’t spending nearly enough time understanding the actual pain points of my potential customers. I was offering a futuristic solution to people who weren’t even sure they had a problem that needed solving.

When I approached businesses, they weren’t asking, “How advanced is your platform?” They were asking, “How will this help us save money?”

That’s when it hit me. I was speaking the wrong language.

I had to shift my focus from selling technology to selling solutions. Instead of talking about sensors, APIs, and cloud computing, I had to show how IoT could reduce operational costs, improve efficiency, and generate new revenue streams.

Once I made this adjustment, I noticed a change. Conversations became easier, and decision-makers started seeing the value. It wasn’t just about technology anymore—it was about business outcomes.

The Third Failure: Learning Through Building Partnerships

At first, I thought I needed to build everything on my own. But as I encountered more roadblocks, I realized something crucial: IoT is not a one-man show. It requires an ecosystem.

When I started reaching out to potential partners, I discovered that the IoT adoption challenge wasn’t just mine alone—others were facing similar struggles. System integrators, software developers, and even hardware manufacturers were all trying to navigate the complexities of IoT implementation.

That’s when I started building strategic partnerships.

Instead of trying to convince companies to adopt IoT on my own, I worked with system integrators who already had trusted relationships with businesses. They understood their clients’ operational challenges far better than I did, and they could position our IoT solutions as part of a broader digital transformation strategy.

I also realized that collaborating with universities and research institutions could help us educate the next generation of IoT professionals. Through partnerships, we could develop case studies, provide training programs, and increase awareness about real-world IoT applications.

This was a game-changer. By leveraging partnerships, we accelerated adoption and expanded our market reach much faster than I ever could have done alone.

What I Learned from These Failures

Looking back, these failures were painful, but they were necessary. They forced me to adapt, rethink my strategy, and ultimately build a stronger business.

Here are the key lessons I took away:

1. Timing matters. Just because a technology is exciting doesn’t mean the market is ready for it.

2. Selling is about solving problems, not just promoting features. Speak the language of business impact, not just technology.

3. You can’t build an IoT business alone. Success comes from building partnerships and working within an ecosystem.

4. Resilience is everything. If I had given up after my first failure, I wouldn’t be here today.

Where We Are Today

Today, FAVORIOT is working with partners across multiple countries. We’ve built an IoT platform that helps businesses adopt smart solutions in a practical, scalable way. We’ve collaborated with system integrators, universities, and corporations to drive IoT adoption.

But none of this would have happened if I hadn’t learned from my early failures.

Would I go back and change my struggles? Absolutely not.

Because those failures weren’t the end of my journey—they were the foundation of my success.

If Only I Had More Time: A Reflection on What Truly Matters

What do you wish you could do more every day?

If you had asked me this question a decade ago, my answer might have been different. Back then, I was juggling corporate responsibilities, managing large teams, and ensuring projects met tight deadlines. My days were structured around meetings, strategic planning, and execution. But now, as an entrepreneur, educator, and writer, my perspective has shifted. I have greater control over my schedule, yet I still find myself wishing for more time to do certain things.

There are many things I wish I could do more of daily—writing, learning, exercising, and engaging in deep, meaningful conversations. But if I had to choose one thing above all, it would be reflection.

The Power of Reflection

We live in a world that values action over contemplation. The modern hustle culture glorifies productivity, but it often neglects the power of stepping back and thinking deeply about what we are doing and why we are doing it.

I wish I had more time to sit down, free from distractions, and truly reflect on my experiences—both personal and professional. In my younger years, I rarely did this. There was always another project, another deadline, another goal to achieve. But as I get older, I realize that reflection is not a luxury; it’s a necessity.

Every day, I experience moments—some small, some significant—that shape my perspective. A conversation with a friend, an article I read, an interaction with a student, or even a simple observation from my daily commute—each of these holds potential lessons. But unless I take the time to reflect, these moments slip away unnoticed.

Writing as a Form of Reflection

One way I practice reflection is through writing. In fact, many of my articles stem from moments of deep introspection. When I write, I am not just sharing information; I am engaging in a dialogue with myself. I ask myself questions, challenge my assumptions, and explore new perspectives.

There have been times when I sat down to write about a specific topic, only to realize mid-way that my own thoughts were evolving. It’s fascinating how writing forces me to articulate what I truly believe. It’s one thing to have ideas floating in my mind, but another to put them into words. Writing makes my thoughts tangible, allowing me to refine and improve them.

I wish I had more time to write without constraints—to explore ideas without worrying about deadlines or audience expectations. I want to write purely for the sake of self-discovery.

Learning and Expanding Horizons

Another thing I wish I could do more every day is learning. I have always been curious about new technologies, especially in IoT and AI. But beyond my professional interests, I am fascinated by history, philosophy, and human psychology.

There’s so much knowledge available today—books, podcasts, online courses—but the challenge is finding the time to consume it meaningfully. I don’t just want to skim articles or watch short videos; I want to deeply engage with the material, take notes, and apply what I learn.

One of my biggest realizations is that learning should not just be about acquiring information; it should be about understanding connections. How does AI impact ethics? How does history shape modern technological policies? How can IoT be used to solve societal problems? These are the kinds of questions that excite me.

I often tell myself, If only I had an extra two hours a day just to read and think…

Meaningful Conversations

With the rise of social media, communication has become easier but often more superficial. While I engage with many people online, I miss deep, face-to-face conversations—conversations where ideas flow naturally, where there’s no rush, and where both parties are truly present.

I wish I could have more of these conversations every day—whether with friends, colleagues, or even strangers. Some of my best insights have come from unexpected discussions. It’s amazing how much we can learn when we listen without judgment.

I sometimes wonder, What if we all spent more time having thoughtful conversations instead of quick exchanges? How different would our relationships be? How much more would we understand one another?

Physical and Mental Well-being

Exercise is another area I wish I could dedicate more time to daily. I try to stay active, but some days, work takes over. Yet, every time I go for a walk or a workout, I feel more energized and focused.

Similarly, mental well-being is just as important. Meditation, mindfulness, and simply taking breaks throughout the day help in reducing stress. But in our busy schedules, these often get neglected.

I remind myself constantly: Taking care of my health is not a distraction from work; it’s an investment in my long-term productivity and happiness.

The Balance Between Doing and Being

At the core of all these desires—reflection, writing, learning, deep conversations, and well-being—is a fundamental question: How do we balance “doing” with “being”?

The world pushes us to always be doing something, achieving something, proving something. But sometimes, the most valuable thing we can do is simply be—to pause, to breathe, and to appreciate the present moment.

I wish I could do more of that every day.

Perhaps the real challenge is not finding more time but making a conscious choice to prioritize what truly matters.

One Word That Describes Me: “Resilient”

What is one word that describes you?

If I had to pick just one word to describe myself, it would be resilient.

I’ve been through multiple career shifts—from academia to government, then corporate, and finally, the startup world. Each transition felt like stepping into an entirely different universe, each with its own set of rules, challenges, and expectations. But if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that resilience is the key to survival and success.

But what does resilience mean to me? It’s not just about bouncing back from failure. It’s about adapting, learning, and continuously pushing forward, even when the odds seem stacked against me.

From Academia to the Corporate World: A Shock to the System

I began my career in academia, a structured environment where research and knowledge-sharing were the primary goals. Then, I moved to a government agency, where things operated at a much slower pace—decisions took time, approvals required layers of bureaucracy, and innovation was often stifled by rigid processes.

When I transitioned into the corporate world, the change was drastic. Suddenly, everything was about speed, competition, and bottom-line results. There was no time for lengthy deliberations or endless research; decisions had to be made fast, and results were expected yesterday.

I remember my first high-stakes meeting at a telecom company. The senior executives bombarded me with questions I hadn’t even anticipated. My carefully prepared slides suddenly seemed irrelevant. I walked out of that room feeling like I had just survived a storm.

But I didn’t let that moment define me. I went back, studied the corporate culture, understood their expectations, and became stronger. The next time I was in that boardroom, I wasn’t just prepared—I was leading the conversation.

Venturing into the Startup World: The Ultimate Test of Resilience

After years in corporate leadership roles, I did something many thought was crazy—I started Favoriot.

Starting a company from scratch is one of the hardest things I’ve ever done. Unlike in corporate life, where resources are abundant and structures are in place, a startup means wearing multiple hats, making difficult decisions with limited data, and facing constant rejection.

There were days when I questioned myself.

“Did I make a mistake? Should I have stayed in my comfortable corporate job?”

When I first pitched Favoriot’s IoT platform, many people didn’t get it.

“Why would anyone need an IoT middleware platform?”

Investors were hesitant. Clients weren’t convinced. But I believed in the vision. I knew IoT was going to be a game-changer, and I refused to let early setbacks define our success.

Slowly, things started to change. More companies saw the value of IoT. Universities began adopting Favoriot for research. Government agencies started paying attention. We expanded beyond Malaysia and secured partnerships in multiple countries.

But that growth only came because of resilience—the ability to push forward when others would have given up.

Facing Criticism and Doubt: Another Form of Resilience

The more you put yourself out there, the more criticism you face.

I’ve shared my thoughts on IoT, smart cities, and entrepreneurship at conferences, in articles, and across social media. Not everyone agrees with my views. Some think IoT is overhyped. Others believe smart cities will never succeed. I’ve had my fair share of skeptics.

Early in my career, criticism used to affect me deeply. I’d replay negative comments in my head and wonder if I was on the wrong path.

But over time, I realized something: criticism is proof that you’re doing something that matters. If no one is questioning your ideas, it means you’re not pushing boundaries.

Instead of fearing criticism, I started embracing it. I use it as fuel to refine my ideas, strengthen my arguments, and prove doubters wrong—not through words, but through action.

Balancing Passion and Patience: The Silent Strength of Resilience

One of the hardest lessons in resilience is understanding that success doesn’t happen overnight.

When I first started blogging about IoT, I had almost no readers. My Blog articles barely got any traction. I could have given up.

“Maybe people just aren’t interested in what I have to say?”

But I kept writing. I kept sharing insights. Slowly, my audience grew. Today, I have thousands of followers who engage with my content, and my articles have reached people across the world.

Resilience isn’t just about pushing forward when things get tough—it’s about staying patient and consistent even when results aren’t immediate.

Why Resilience Defines Me

If I had chosen words like “intelligent,” “visionary,” or “driven,” they wouldn’t have captured the essence of my journey.

Intelligence helps, but it’s not enough. Vision is crucial, but without resilience, it remains just a dream. Drive is important, but if you can’t handle setbacks, you’ll burn out quickly.

Resilience, on the other hand, is what has kept me going through every challenge, every failure, and every moment of doubt.

So if you were to ask me again, “What’s the one word that describes you?”

I’d say, without hesitation: Resilient.