Category: Uncategorized

5 Lessons I Learned About Writing (The Hard Way)

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When I started writing, I was excited but clueless.

I followed every advice I could find, thinking it would fast-track my growth.

Some of it helped, but a lot of it wasted my time.

Looking back, I realise many of my mistakes could’ve been avoided.

Here are five simple lessons I learned through trial and error.

1. Write Often, But Fix Your Mistakes

When I was new to writing, I kept hearing, “Just write as much as you can. It doesn’t matter if it’s bad.” So, I wrote and wrote, but I wasn’t getting better.

Why? Because I wasn’t learning from my mistakes.

One day, I took a step back and reread my older pieces. I cringed.

That’s when I realised that writing isn’t just about pouring out words — it’s about learning how to improve them.

Now, every time I write, I also edit and reflect. Mistakes are okay, but fixing them is what makes you improve.

2. Read What Interests You, Not Just to Impress Others

People kept telling me to read a lot to improve my writing.

So, I went overboard. I read anything and everything, but often, I wasn’t paying attention.

I skimmed articles, left a quick “great piece!” comment, and moved on. I thought that’s how you built connections.

But over time, I realised I was fooling myself.

Reading like that didn’t help me write better or connect with anyone.

Now, I only read what genuinely interests me. When I find something good, I take my time to understand it.

This way, I learn and respect the effort the writer put into their work.

3. Comment Like You Mean It

I used to think leaving lots of comments on people’s articles would get me noticed.

So, I’d quickly type things like, “Nice work!” or “Great read!” and move on.

It felt like I was doing something productive, but those comments were shallow.

Writers can tell when your comment is just filler.

They stop engaging with you because you didn’t read their work.

Now, I only comment when I have something meaningful to say.

If I like a piece, I’ll share what stood out or what I learned from it. A good comment goes a long way in building authentic connections.

4. Don’t Play the Follow-for-Follow Game

At first, I thought the secret to growing my audience was simple: follow everyone, and they’ll follow you back.

My follower count grew for a while, but it didn’t feel right.

Most of these “followers” weren’t interested in my writing, and I wasn’t interested in their work either. It felt empty.

Now, I follow people whose work I enjoy or can learn from.

Sure, my growth is slower, but it’s real.

The people who follow me now actually read and engage with my work, and that’s far more rewarding.

5. Write When You Have Something to Say

One piece of advice I used to follow was, “Just keep writing no matter what.” So, I wrote even when I had no ideas, energy, or passion for what I was doing.

The results? My writing felt forced, and I wasn’t proud of it.

Then I realised something: Writing isn’t just about putting words on a page.

It’s about having something to share, an idea, a story, or a lesson.

Now, I write when inspired or strongly about a topic. Writing this way makes the process enjoyable, and the results are much better.

Final Thoughts

Writing is a journey; like any journey, it’s easy to get lost if you follow the wrong map.

I made plenty of mistakes, but each one taught me something valuable.

If you’re starting, take your time to find what works for you.

Write, learn, and connect with people authentically.

It’s not about shortcuts — building something meaningful, one step at a time.

FAVORIOT Global Partner Paths

ABOUT FAVORIOT

A Framework for Strategic Collaboration

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The FAVORIOT Global Partner Paths are a carefully designed framework for organisations aiming to work closely with FAVORIOT in leveraging its IoT ecosystem.

These structured paths provide businesses with the tools, resources, and programs they need to align their offerings with FAVORIOT’s platform and achieve mutual growth.

By tailoring each path to specific business needs and objectives, FAVORIOT ensures that its partners can access the most relevant benefits, maximise their contributions, and thrive in the IoT industry.

What Are FAVORIOT Global Partner Paths?

FAVORIOT Global Partner Paths are tailored engagement models developed to cater to diverse industries and business focuses.

Each path guides partners in integrating their products, services, or expertise with FAVORIOT’s IoT platform to unlock new opportunities and deliver enhanced value to their customers.

These paths are designed to simplify the collaboration process while ensuring that every partner receives targeted support based on their specific needs.

How FAVORIOT Global Partner Paths Work

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The paths are divided into five key categories, each addressing a unique type of partnership or business focus. This categorisation allows partners to select the most suitable path to meet their operational goals, whether they are developing software, manufacturing hardware, offering services, providing training, or expanding the platform’s reach through distribution.

  1. Software Path

Purpose: For organisations creating software that operates on or integrates with the FAVORIOT platform.

Examples:

• SaaS providers

• Application developers

• Businesses building IoT applications using FAVORIOT APIs

Key Benefits:

• Technical resources and integration tools

• Co-marketing opportunities to showcase software solutions

• Support for scaling applications within the FAVORIOT ecosystem

2. Hardware Path

Purpose: For businesses producing hardware devices compatible with the FAVORIOT platform.

Examples:

• IoT sensors

• Edge devices

• Gateways

Key Benefits:

• Resources for validating hardware compatibility

• Tools for seamless device integration with FAVORIOT solutions

• Device management support through the FAVORIOT platform

3. Services Path

Purpose: For companies delivering consulting, managed services, or reselling FAVORIOT solutions to end users.

Examples:

• System integrators

• IoT solution providers

• Managed service firms helping clients adopt FAVORIOT technology

Key Benefits:

• Comprehensive support for IoT project implementation

• Tools for optimising client solutions

• Opportunities for joint marketing and co-branded initiatives

4. Training Path

Purpose: For organisations offering training programs related to FAVORIOT’s IoT platform and solutions.

Examples:

• Training academies

• Universities and educational institutions

• Professional development organisations

Key Benefits:

• Access to exclusive training materials and certification programs

• Collaboration with FAVORIOT Academy to deliver IoT expertise

• Opportunities to build recognition as a certified IoT training provider

5. Distribution Path

Purpose: For partners focusing on recruiting, onboarding, and supporting organisations adopting FAVORIOT’s IoT solutions.

Examples:

• Regional distributors

• Partners creating a local ecosystem of FAVORIOT adopters

Key Benefits:

• Partner enablement tools and onboarding resources

• Programs to expand FAVORIOT’s market reach

Core Elements of the FAVORIOT Global Partner Program

The success of the FAVORIOT Global Partner Paths is anchored on several critical components:

• Specialised Programs: Focused initiatives to enable partners, certify their expertise, and support market expansion.

• Extensive Resources: Technical documentation, partner-exclusive tools, and detailed use-case templates to accelerate IoT adoption.

• Value-Driven Benefits: Co-branding opportunities, joint marketing campaigns to drive adoption and growth.

Key Advantages of FAVORIOT Global Partner Paths

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1. Customised Support: Each path is tailored to address specific business requirements, ensuring partners receive the most relevant resources and benefits.

2. Growth Opportunities: By working with FAVORIOT, partners can scale their IoT solutions effectively, expanding their offerings and market presence.

3. Efficient Collaboration: Structured paths simplify the onboarding and integration process, enabling faster time-to-market for IoT innovations.

4. Ecosystem Strengthening: Through these collaborations, FAVORIOT and its partners jointly contribute to building a robust global IoT ecosystem.

Driving Mutual Growth Through Collaboration

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The FAVORIOT Global Partner Paths are more than just engagement models – they represent a strategic approach to building successful partnerships.

By offering a clear and structured framework, these paths empower organisations to align with FAVORIOT’s vision, extend their market reach, and enhance their IoT capabilities.

This collaborative approach not only fosters innovation but also strengthens the global IoT landscape, enabling businesses and customers to unlock the true potential of connected technologies.

The Frustration of Watching My Medium Earnings Plummet

WRITER’S DILEMMA

I discovered this ONE big issue.

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I logged into my Medium account last month, expecting to see the usual earnings notification that would put a smile on my face.

Writing has always been more about passion than profit, but seeing my words turn into something tangible – a deposit in my bank account – was undeniably satisfying.

But this time, the number staring back at me was shockingly low so low that it didn’t even hit USD 10.

That meant no payout for the month.

My earnings would roll over into the next cycle. A wave of frustration hit me, and I asked myself, “What went wrong?”

The Drop in Numbers: What Happened?

It wasn’t long before I pinpointed the stark difference between my previous months of success and this dismal performance.

Photo by Walls.io on Unsplash

I had been actively engaging in a Facebook group tailored for Medium writers for a few months.

The concept was simple: reciprocal engagement. You read my article, I’ll read yours. You clap for my work, I’ll return the favour. It was a well-oiled machine of give-and-take.

And, for a while, it worked.

My stats soared – views, reads, claps, and comments flooded in.

My writing was reaching more people, and the monthly payouts reflected that. But deep down, something didn’t sit right with me.

Why I Stopped Reciprocal Engagement

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The truth is, I hated it.

I hated the transactional nature of it all.

Writing is deeply personal for me. It is a way to share my thoughts, experiences, and ideas with others who genuinely connect with them.

But this system of engagement felt like cheating the process.

Why should I clap for articles I had no interest in reading? Why should I leave comments that weren’t authentic to play along?

Eventually, the dissonance became too much.

I stepped back from the group and chose to focus on reading and writing based on my interests and instincts.

No more forced claps. No more insincere comments.

I felt liberated, but it came at a cost.

The moment I stopped participating in reciprocal engagement, the numbers on my Medium dashboard plummeted.

Views dried up. Reads were scarce. Claps and comments? A rare sight.

And, of course, the earnings followed suit.

Wrestling with the Frustration

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Seeing my earnings nosedive was disheartening.

It wasn’t just about the money – it was the validation that came with it.

When your writing generates income, it feels like a stamp of approval, a sign that your work matters.

Watching that income drop feels like rejection, even if you know its real reason.

I couldn’t help but wonder: Was my writing not good enough? Did I depend too much on these artificial boosts?

My rational side knew the answers, but the emotional side still stung.

Returning to Authenticity

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Despite the frustration, I’m standing by my decision.

Writing has to feel real. It has to come from a place of honesty, not obligation.

I’ve decided to stick to my natural rhythm – writing when inspiration strikes and engaging with articles that interest me.

Will my earnings recover? I don’t know.

But I’d rather have a smaller, more genuine audience than inflate my stats through insincere tactics.

I want readers who connect with my stories, not readers who feel obligated to clap because I clapped for theirs.

Looking Ahead

Photo by Matt Howard on Unsplash

This month feels like a fresh start.

I’m curious to see what happens when I leave behind the shortcuts and focus solely on authentic engagement.

Will the numbers bounce back, or will they stay low?

Either way, I’m ready to embrace the journey – writing isn’t just about the destination or the paycheck at the end of the month.

It’s about staying true to yourself and your voice.

Let’s see where this path takes me.

The Silent Struggles of Researchers

THE INSIDE STORY

My Journey Through the Unknown

Credit image from Unsplash

I leaned back in my chair, staring at the slide deck I’d just presented.

It was a topic I had always been passionate about — the challenges faced by researchers as they navigate the often uncharted territory of their work.

But the more I thought about it, the more I realised how much of my own journey was reflected in the slides.

Viewing Research Through Different Layers

I’ve always seen research as a multi-layered process, much like the layers in a network system.

Each layer — from the application to the physical — represents a different challenge.

Some researchers operate at the surface, working on problems that are more visible and easier to connect with real-world applications.

Others, like myself, often find ourselves delving deeper into the less-explored, less-visible aspects of a problem.

“Why do you spend so much time on this layer?” a colleague once asked me. “Does anyone even notice?”

I smiled. “Maybe not right now,” I replied, “but it’s the foundation for everything above it. Without this, the entire structure could crumble.”

That’s the thing about deep research — it’s often thankless in the short term. But I’ve always believed in its long-term value.

The Valley of Appreciation

One of the biggest challenges I’ve faced — and seen others face — is what I call the “Valley of Appreciation.”

It’s that gap between starting your research and seeing its impact.

The journey through this valley is long and often lonely.

I recall a project I worked on years ago.

It was complex, technical, and far removed from the flashy innovations that grabbed headlines.

I poured months into it, only to be met with silence when I presented my findings.

“Why do we do this?” I asked myself late one night, staring at my notes. “Does anyone care?”

But deep down, I knew the answer.

Research isn’t about instant recognition.

It’s about planting seeds, some of which may take years to bear fruit.

That understanding didn’t make the journey easier, but it gave me a sense of purpose.

Breadth vs Depth: The Eternal Dilemma

Another challenge that often keeps researchers awake at night is deciding whether to focus on breadth or depth.

Should we explore a wide range of topics, scratching the surface of many issues?

Or should we dive deep into a single area, risking irrelevance if that area doesn’t pan out?

I’ve wrestled with this question countless times.

In one particularly heated discussion, a team member argued, “We need to stay broad, Mazlan. The more we cover, the more funding opportunities we’ll get.”

“But depth is where breakthroughs happen,” I countered. “Without it, we’re just scratching the surface.”

That conversation ended without a clear resolution, as such discussions often do. But it reminded me of the importance of balance.

While breadth can offer versatility, depth is where true innovation lies.

The Explorer’s Risk

Being a researcher often feels like being a cave explorer.

You venture into the unknown, armed with little more than your knowledge, instincts, and a flickering light of curiosity.

Each step forward is a gamble — you might uncover something groundbreaking, or you might hit a dead end.

I remember a particularly risky project early in my career.

The technology was nascent, the funding was limited, and the expectations were sky-high. Many advised me against it.

“It’s a career risk, Mazlan,” a mentor warned. “What if it doesn’t work out?”

I hesitated but ultimately decided to proceed.

“If we don’t take risks,” I told myself, “we’ll never move forward.”

The project didn’t yield the results I’d hoped for, but it taught me lessons I’ve carried ever since.

In research, even failures can pave the way for future success.

Do We Reward the Explorers?

This brings me to a question that has haunted me throughout my career:

Do we adequately reward researchers who take these risks?

Society celebrates the visible results of research — groundbreaking products, influential papers — but what about the countless hours spent in labs, the sleepless nights, the failed experiments?

I once attended an awards ceremony where a colleague was being recognised for their work.

During their speech, they acknowledged the researchers who had laid the groundwork for their success, many of whom remained unknown.

“They’re the real heroes,” I thought. “But how often do we remember them?”

This realisation has driven me to advocate for better recognition of researchers, especially those who work in the shadows, tackling foundational problems that may not see the light of day for years.

The Need for Platforms

One lesson I’ve learned is that researchers can’t succeed in isolation.

To go deeper into their work, they need platforms — both literal and metaphorical — that support and amplify their efforts.

These platforms could be funding, collaboration opportunities, or simply a culture that values and understands the importance of research.

During my time in leadership roles, I’ve made it a point to provide such platforms.

I’ve encouraged cross-disciplinary collaborations, championed risky projects, and pushed for policies that recognise the contributions of researchers at all levels.

But there’s still much work to be done.

As I often tell my teams, “We need to create an ecosystem where researchers feel supported, not just when they succeed but also when they fail. Because failure is often the first step toward success.”

Moving Forward

As I closed my laptop after revisiting the presentation, I felt a renewed sense of purpose.

The challenges faced by researchers are real and daunting, but they are also surmountable. B

y understanding these challenges and working to address them, we can create an environment where researchers not only survive but thrive.

To my fellow researchers out there, I have this to say: Keep going.

Your work matters, even when it feels like no one notices.

The seeds you plant today may take years to grow, but when they do, they have the power to change the world.

And to those who support researchers — leaders, policymakers, and society at large — remember that innovation doesn’t happen overnight.

It’s the result of countless hours of unseen effort.

Let’s do more to appreciate and reward that effort.

As for me, I’ll continue navigating this journey, both as a researcher (and as an entrepreneur) and as someone who believes deeply in the value of what we do.

Because, in the end, it’s not just about exploring the unknown — it’s about lighting the way for others to follow.

The Challenge of Commercialising R&D in Big Corporations

THE TOUGH LIFE OF BUILDING A PRODUCT

Lessons from My Experience

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I sat in my office, reading an email from a colleague at one of our partner organisations.

It was a familiar story.

Their R&D division had spent years developing a product they were convinced would change the game, only for the product team to shelve it in favour of a faster-to-market solution from an external partner.

As someone who has spent years working in and with R&D organisations, I felt a pang of sympathy.

Yet, I also understood the product team’s perspective.

It’s a tug-of-war I’ve seen too many times — one that often ends with bruised egos and strained relationships.

The Slow Pace of R&D

Let me take you back to my days leading an R&D division.

We prided ourselves on our innovative projects, tackling cutting-edge technology that pushed boundaries.

But there was a catch: innovation takes time.

In an ideal world, we could refine our ideas, test them thoroughly, and ensure they were market-ready before launch.

But the market doesn’t wait.

I remember a heated discussion during one project review. The product team was growing increasingly frustrated with our timeline.

“Dr. Mazlan,” they said, “we can’t wait another 18 months. Our competitors are already rolling out similar solutions. What’s the point of perfection if we’re late to the party?”

I understood their frustration, but I also believed in the importance of doing things right. “If we rush,” I countered, “we risk launching a flawed product that damages the company’s reputation. We need time to get this right.”

Despite my reasoning, the gap between R&D’s timeline and the product team’s urgency grew wider.

And the result?

They brought in an external vendor to deliver a quicker solution.

R&D for Publications, Not Products

Another issue I’ve observed is the focus on publications rather than practical solutions.

Don’t get me wrong — publishing research is important.

It showcases expertise and enhances the organisation’s reputation.

But when the primary goal of an R&D team is to publish papers, the end product often becomes secondary.

I’ve seen brilliant engineers and researchers produce groundbreaking work that earned accolades in journals but had little to no commercial viability.

I once asked a colleague, “Why aren’t we aligning our research with customer needs?”

He smiled and said, “Dr. Mazlan, publications are what we’re measured on. Commercialisation is the product team’s problem.”

That statement hit me hard.

If the R&D division isn’t focused on solving real-world problems, how can we expect their work to translate into products that sell?

Misaligned with Customer Needs

I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve seen products fail because they didn’t address real customer problems.

It’s a classic mistake: assuming we know what customers want without actually engaging with them.

I have known a company that had spent millions developing an IoT device. They were confident it would revolutionise the market.

When I asked how they had validated the concept with customers, their response was telling: “We didn’t. The technology speaks for itself.”

When the product launched, sales were abysmal. It turned out the device was too complex for the target audience, and the features they had spent years perfecting weren’t even priorities for their customers.

Reflecting on that experience, I realised how vital it is to involve customers early and often.

Yet, in many R&D teams, there’s a reluctance to do so.

Perhaps it’s fear of criticism or an overconfidence in their expertise.

Either way, the result is the same: products that miss the mark.

The Strain Between R&D and Product Teams

The friction between R&D and product teams is almost inevitable in such scenarios.

The product team has a clear mandate: deliver solutions that generate revenue.

When R&D timelines don’t align with market demands, the product team often looks elsewhere.

I remember a particularly tense meeting where the product head said, “We appreciate the work R&D is doing, but we can’t afford to wait. Our survival depends on getting something out the door now.”

The R&D team felt betrayed. “We’ve been working on this for years,” one researcher said. “Now you’re telling us it’s not good enough? Why didn’t you involve us earlier if time was such a concern?”

Both sides had valid points, but the damage was done.

The R&D team felt unappreciated, while the product team saw them as out of touch.

Bridging the Gap

Over the years, I’ve come to believe that the solution lies in better integration between R&D and product teams.

Here are a few approaches that have worked in my experience:

  1. Early Collaboration: Bringing product and R&D teams together from the start can help align goals. When both sides understand the market realities and technological possibilities, they can co-create solutions that are both innovative and practical.
  2. Customer-Centric Approach: R&D teams should be encouraged to engage directly with customers. This doesn’t mean abandoning research but rather ensuring it’s grounded in real-world needs.
  3. Flexible Metrics: Instead of measuring R&D solely on publications, companies should include metrics related to commercial impact. This can motivate teams to focus on creating market-ready solutions.
  4. Leveraging External Partnerships: While it’s ideal to commercialise in-house R&D, external partnerships can sometimes be the best option. The key is ensuring these partnerships are seen as complementary rather than competitive.

A New Mindset

One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is that success requires a mindset shift.

R&D teams need to see themselves as partners in the commercialisation process, not just creators of technology.

At the same time, product teams must recognise the value of R&D’s long-term contributions.

As I reflect on my own journey, I’m reminded of a project where we managed to get it right.

By involving the product team and customers early, we developed a solution that was both innovative and market-ready.

It wasn’t perfect, but it met the needs of the market — and that was enough.

I still believe in the power of R&D to drive innovation, but I also know that innovation must be paired with practicality.

It’s not an easy balance to strike, but when it works, the results can be transformative.

As I finished reading the email, I decided to share my thoughts with the sender. “I understand your frustration,” I wrote. “But perhaps this is an opportunity to reimagine how your teams collaborate. It’s not about choosing between R&D and product — it’s about finding a way to make them work together.”

It’s a lesson I’ve learned the hard way, and one I hope others can learn without the same struggles.

The Future of Writing: Can AGI Rival Today’s Writers?

AI REVOLUTION

What if AGI takes over the role of a writer?

Image created by ChatGPT based on this story.

“What if AGI becomes as good as me at writing?” I muttered, half amused and half concerned. The thought lingered, almost taunting me.

Could a machine, no matter how intelligent, truly replicate the art of storytelling?

Writing has always been a deeply personal journey for me.

It’s not just about the words; it’s about weaving experiences, emotions, and lessons into a narrative that connects with readers.

“But what if AGI learns to do that too?” I challenged myself. The question refused to go away.

The Essence of Writing

I often remind myself why I write.

It’s about more than sharing knowledge; it’s about creating connections.

I poured my soul into every word when I wrote about my journey of building FAVORIOT.

Those articles weren’t just facts — my triumphs, frustrations, and dreams in black and white.

“Could AGI ever capture that?” I asked myself aloud.

It could replicate the structure, even the tone, but would it feel the pride I felt when describing our successes?

Would it understand the weight of the sleepless nights behind those stories?

Writing is as much about the process as it is about the product. “Machines don’t have sleepless nights,” I chuckled, though the thought didn’t comfort me.

What Would AGI Need to Learn?

I thought as I sipped my coffee that if AGI wanted to rival human writers, it would have to overcome three major challenges.

“First,” I said, leaning back in my chair, “context and nuance.” Writing isn’t just about stringing words together; it’s about understanding the world in all its complexity.

When I write about IoT, I’m not just describing technology — I’m addressing real-world problems, cultural challenges, and user needs. “Can AGI grasp that kind of complexity?” I wondered.

“Second, empathy,” I continued, almost as if I were explaining it to an invisible audience. Readers connect with stories because they resonate emotionally.

When I write about entrepreneurship, I think about the struggles of young dreamers reading my words.

Would AGI know how to address their hopes and fears, or would it just give generic advice?

“And third,” I paused for effect, “failure.” Every writer knows the pain of scrapping drafts, rewriting paragraphs, and starting over.

Those failures teach us what works and what doesn’t. “Can a machine learn the value of failure? Can it be self-critique like I do?” I mused.

Where AGI Might Excel

I reminded myself that it’s not all doom and gloom. AGI could bring remarkable strengths to the table.

I imagined it working tirelessly, synthesising vast amounts of information in seconds, and crafting perfectly structured articles. “It would be like having a research assistant who never sleeps,” I thought, smiling at the idea.

AGI could adapt its style to suit any audience.

It could shift gears effortlessly, whether writing for IoT experts, poetry lovers, or aspiring entrepreneurs. “Imagine the possibilities,” I said, almost excited now.

But the excitement was tempered by a nagging thought: “Would it feel like cheating to rely on AGI for something so personal?”

Human and Machine: A Collaborative Future

“Maybe we don’t have to compete,” I said, voicing the thought brewing. “Maybe AGI can be a collaborator, not a rival.”

I imagined using AGI to handle the technical aspects of my articles, freeing me to focus on storytelling and emotional resonance.

“It could help me write faster, but the heart of the article would still be mine,” I reasoned.

I’d already seen glimpses of this collaboration.

Tools like Grammarly refine my writing, while AI-driven platforms assist with research and brainstorming. “It’s not replacing me; it’s enhancing me,” I concluded, feeling more optimistic.

The Ethical Dilemma

“But then,” I hesitated, “what happens when AGI starts writing independently?”

If it writes an article that’s indistinguishable from mine, who owns the content? And how do we ensure transparency? “Would readers still value the writer or only care about the content?” I asked, troubled by the implications.

Writing, at its core, is a personal act.

It’s an extension of one’s thoughts, experiences, and beliefs.

If AGI mimics that perfectly, does it diminish the value of human expression? “Or,” I wondered, “does it make human stories even more precious?”

A Hopeful Outlook

I glanced at the clock.

I’d spent over an hour lost in this internal debate, yet I felt no closer to an answer. “Maybe it’s not about finding answers,” I admitted. “Maybe it’s about asking the right questions.”

As I typed these final words, I reminded myself why I write.

It’s not for perfection or applause. It’s for connection.

It’s for the moments when a reader says, “This resonates with me.”

AGI might one-day master writing mechanics, but it will never have my journey—my struggles, triumphs, and voice.

“And that,” I said to myself, a small smile creeping across my face, “is what makes every story I write, including this one, uniquely mine.”

Living with AGI in 2030: How Everything Changed

ARTIFICIAL GENERAL INTELLIGENCE (AGI) REVOLUTION

An imaginary future

Image created by ChatGPT

I never thought I’d see the day. Artificial General Intelligence — or AGI as everyone calls it — is now part of everyday life. Back in the 2020s, it felt like something out of a movie.

You’d hear tech people throw around terms like “superintelligence,” and I’d nod along, not understanding.

But now? I’m living it.

And let me tell you, it’s not what I expected — it’s better.

“AGI? What’s That?”

I still remember the first time I heard about AGI hitting the scene.

It was all over the news: “AGI has arrived!” My first thought? Here we go, another overhyped tech buzzword.

It was just another fancy update to those voice assistants who could barely understand me half the time.

But then, over the next few weeks, things started to change—real change.

Hospitals began announcing breakthroughs, governments were talking about smarter cities, and my neighbours were raving about how AGI was making their lives easier.

Mornings Made Simple

Fast forward to today, and AGI is part of my daily routine.

Every morning, my assistant, let’s call it “Genie,” greets me like a friend who knows me a little too well.

“Good morning, Mazlan! You didn’t sleep well last night — should I push your 9 a.m. meeting to the afternoon?”

I blink at my screen, barely awake. How does it know? Then I glance at my smartwatch, which has been tracking my sleep patterns.

Of course, Genie knows. It’s connected to everything — my watch, calendar, even the temperature of my bedroom.

“Yes, please,” I mumble, still groggy.

Genie’s not just a glorified organiser. It gets me.

If I’m feeling stressed, it suggests a quick meditation.

If I’m on a productivity streak, it lines up tasks so I can breeze through them.

It’s like having a personal assistant, life coach, and best friend rolled into one.

“Wait, My Health Is in Check?”

The biggest game-changer for me has been healthcare.

I’ve always been terrible about going to the doctor.

Who has the time? But now, I don’t need to. Genie monitors everything — heart rate, blood pressure, you name it.

Last year, it flagged something unusual with my heartbeat. “It’s probably nothing,” I thought, but Genie insisted I schedule a virtual check-up.

It turns out it wasn’t anything. The doctor said it could’ve turned into something serious if we hadn’t caught it early.

It’s weird, isn’t it? A piece of tech cared about my health more than I did.

And now, I don’t take it for granted. Knowing Genie’s got my back — even for things I can’t see — makes me feel safer.

My Kids Are Thriving

The way my kids learn now blows my mind. Back in school, it was all about memorising facts and fitting them into one-size-fits-all lessons.

But for my kids? AGI creates lessons tailored to them.

My youngest is obsessed with space. She’s learning everything from the physics of black holes to the history of space exploration—all in exciting ways.

The other day, she asked me, “Dad, did you know a black hole can ‘spaghettify’ a star?”

“Uh, sure,” I said, pretending to know what she was talking about. But inside, I was amazed. She’s learning things I didn’t even know existed at her age and loving it.

Cities That Work for Us

Even the city feels different now.

Remember those awful traffic jams? Gone. AGI manages the flow of self-driving cars so perfectly that I haven’t been stuck in traffic in years.

Buses, trains, even bikes — all move like clockwork.

And energy? Thanks to AGI’s smart grids, my house runs entirely on renewable power. I don’t even think about electricity bills anymore.

Genie ensures everything is efficient.

One day, I asked, “Why haven’t we had a blackout in years?”

Genie replied, “Because every kilowatt of energy is optimised, Mazlan.”

I didn’t fully understand the science, but I got the point: AGI handles things so well that I don’t have to worry about them.

Rediscovering What Matters

Here’s the surprising part: I’ve rediscovered things I’d forgotten about with AGI taking care of so much.

Like playing my guitar, I used to love strumming Bee Gees songs, but life got in the way. Now, I have time to pick it up again.

And it’s not just me.

My neighbour, a retired engineer, has started painting landscapes. Another friend is finally writing the book he’s been talking about for years. It’s like we’ve all been permitted to dream again.

Not Everything’s Perfect

Of course, not everything about AGI is sunshine and rainbows.

Some people are still trying to figure out who controls it. “What if it gets misused?” they ask. It’s a valid question.

I’ve even joined a few local forums to discuss how AGI should be managed.

“Do you think AGI could ever take over?” I asked a tech-savvy friend recently.

“Only if we let it,” he replied. “That’s why we need to stay involved.”

It’s reassuring to know that while AGI is brilliant, the big decisions still rest with us.

Looking Ahead

As I sit here, writing this on my porch, I can’t help but feel grateful. AGI hasn’t just made life easier — it’s reminded us what it means to be human.

We’re no longer drowning in mundane tasks or endless stress. We have real-time time to connect, create, and enjoy life.

Life in 2030 isn’t perfect, but it feels like a step in the right direction.

For the first time in a long time, I’m excited about what’s next. And that is the greatest gift AGI has given us: hope for the future.

The Crucial Role of Inclusiveness in AI

AI ETHICS

Principle of AI — Inclusiveness

Image create using ChatGPT

I was fascinated by AI’s potential. It seemed like the future, with endless possibilities to revolutionize healthcare, education, and legal systems.

But one thought kept nagging at me: Who benefits from this technology? It dawned on me that if AI only serves a select group, it could widen existing social inequalities. If AI is only built for those with the most access, are we moving forward?

My work with the Internet of Things (IoT) and smart cities has already shown me how technology, while promising to enhance urban living, often caters to those with the resources to use it.

That same realization hit me with AI: AI must be inclusive.

It has to serve everyone, especially the vulnerable, or we risk creating deeper societal divisions. This is why AI must align with the principles of our Federal Constitution, which emphasizes equality, justice, and fairness for all.

Building Inclusiveness into AI Development

The first step to creating inclusive AI is ensuring the systems are designed for everyone, not just the privileged few.

I remember discussing this with a colleague. I asked, “What happens when AI systems in healthcare only use data from urban hospitals that serve wealthier patients?”

We both knew the answer.

Those systems wouldn’t be effective in rural areas, where diseases manifest differently and healthcare resources are more limited.

This example stayed with me. Imagine an AI designed to detect skin cancer, I thought. If it’s only trained on images of light-skinned individuals, what happens when it’s used on darker-skinned patients?

The answer is obvious: it could misdiagnose or fail to identify the condition entirely. Such bias has serious consequences—it could lead to poorer healthcare outcomes for large sections of the population.

That’s why AI systems need diverse data. We can ensure that AI serves everyone equally by training models on datasets that include various skin tones, environments, and lifestyles.

I remember thinking, This is more than just good design — it’s about justice. AI has to reflect the diversity of the people it’s meant to serve, or we’re not living up to our national values of fairness and equality.

Addressing the Needs of Vulnerable Groups

Then, there’s the issue of how AI tools can meet the specific needs of vulnerable populations.

AI should be for more than just those who live in developed, well-connected areas or who can afford the latest technology. It must serve everyone, especially those in need.

One day, I was thinking about the legal system and how difficult it is for many people to get proper legal representation.

I thought, “What if an AI could provide essential legal advice to those who can’t afford a lawyer?” This idea felt like a breakthrough. AI could help people understand their legal rights, assist in drafting contracts, or even generate legal documents.

But then another thought came to mind: What about people who struggle with reading? Or those without reliable internet access?

For AI to be inclusive, it must account for these users.

I imagined an AI legal assistant offering voice guidance for people with lower literacy levels or an AI working offline to reach remote areas. It became clear to me that AI could be the key to equal access to justice—but only if it’s designed to include everyone.

This aligns perfectly with our national principles of fairness and equality.

Ensuring Diversity Among AI Developers

As much as inclusiveness is about the technology itself, it’s also about who is building it. A diverse team of developers brings different perspectives, helping identify and address biases early on.

Are the people building this AI as diverse as those it serves?

Education is a perfect example of how a lack of diversity in AI development can lead to unintended consequences.

I once discussed AI-powered systems for grading student essays. I wondered, “What if the AI is biased towards a specific cultural or linguistic group?“

Imagine a system that unintentionally favors students from urban areas who are more familiar with specific cultural references. Students from rural or minority backgrounds could be unfairly marked down simply because the AI doesn’t understand their context.

That’s where a diverse team of developers comes in.

They would bring a broader range of experiences and insights, helping to design AI systems that are fairer and more inclusive.

I pictured a scenario where developers from various backgrounds are involved in creating an AI-powered educational tool. A diverse team would recognize that not all students have the same internet access, so they design the system to work offline or in low-bandwidth environments.

That’s how AI can truly level the playing field for students, I thought. It’s about giving every student an equal chance, no matter where they come from.

Moving Forward with Inclusive AI

As I reflect on the future of AI, one thing becomes clear to me: Inclusiveness is not a choice; it’s a necessity.

If we’re not careful, AI could widen the gaps we want it to close.

That’s why we need to ensure that AI development techniques are inclusive, tools are designed to meet the needs of vulnerable groups, and that teams behind these systems are as diverse as the society they serve.

In my work with IoT and smart cities, I’ve always aimed to make technology accessible to as many people as possible.

The same approach must be taken with AI.

By focusing on inclusiveness, we can ensure AI systems benefit everyone, which aligns with our Federal Constitution and National Principles. This isn’t just about technology; it’s about creating a fairer, more just world.

In the end, I realized that inclusiveness in AI isn’t a luxury—it’s essential.

If we don’t take inclusiveness seriously, we risk creating technology that serves only the privileged and leaves the rest behind.

And that’s not the future I want to build.

About Favoriot — Part 20: How the Law of Attraction Brought The Startup to Life

FAVORIOT’S JOURNEY

Law of Attraction

Sitting in my quiet office one evening, I glanced at the stack of notebooks on my desk.

Each was a piece of my journey that led to the creation of FAVORIOT. I leaned back in my chair and thought about how it all began.

How did this dream, once a fleeting idea, become a company now empowering the IoT world?

I realised it wasn’t just the hard work or expertise but the belief. It was the Law of Attraction.

Planting the Seed of Belief

Years ago, I questioned my purpose before FAVORIOT was even an idea.

I have worked in corporate environments, government agencies, and universities. Each role taught me valuable lessons, but something was missing — a sense of fulfilment, the feeling of building something from scratch.

While reading about entrepreneurs who transformed their dreams into reality one evening, a question struck me.

“What if I could build something that truly impacts the world?” I asked myself aloud.

The thought lingered in my mind. I started visualising it.

I pictured a company that would simplify IoT for businesses, a platform that would bring value to the community, and a name that resonated with our mission.

This was the moment FAVORIOT was born — not in reality, but in my mind.

Turning Visualisation into Reality

The Law of Attraction isn’t magic; it requires action.

I knew that merely dreaming about FAVORIOT wouldn’t bring it to life.

But I also knew that every action begins with a belief.

I began writing down ideas, sketching business models, listing potential collaborators, and jotting down challenges I might face.

“Can I do this?” I often asked myself, doubting my abilities.

But each time doubt crept in, I countered it with positivity. “Yes, you can. You have the knowledge, the experience, and most importantly, the passion.”

I repeated these words to myself every day, like a mantra.

The more I believed in FAVORIOT, the more the universe seemed to conspire to make it happen.

Attracting the Right People and Opportunities

As I started laying the groundwork for FAVORIOT, I noticed something remarkable.

Opportunities began presenting themselves, almost as if they were drawn to my vision. I met people who believed in my idea.

Some became mentors, others collaborators.

“Why do these connections feel so effortless?” I asked myself during one of our early meetings.

The answer was clear: my energy was aligning with my goals.

By focusing on what I wanted to achieve, I attracted individuals and circumstances that supported my mission.

It wasn’t a coincidence; it was clarity.

When your vision is sharp, and your belief is unwavering, the right resources find their way to you.

Overcoming Challenges with Positivity

Building FAVORIOT wasn’t without its challenges.

There were days when nothing seemed to go right — delays in development, scepticism from potential partners, and financial hurdles.

On one particularly tough day, I remember sitting at my desk, staring at a rejection email.

“Maybe this isn’t meant to be,” I muttered, feeling the weight of the journey.

But deep down, I knew I couldn’t give up.

I closed my eyes and revisited my vision.

I imagined FAVORIOT thriving, helping businesses, and making an impact. That mental image reignited my determination.

“This is just a small setback,” I told myself. “The universe is testing your resolve.”

True enough, solutions appeared.

A new client came on board, or a delayed project found momentum.

Each challenge reinforced my belief in the Law of Attraction.

It wasn’t about avoiding problems but maintaining a positive outlook to find solutions.

Celebrating Small Wins

One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is to celebrate every milestone, no matter how small.

The first time FAVORIOT onboarded a customer, I remember smiling to myself.

“This is just the beginning,” I said, excited and grateful.

Each achievement was proof that the vision I had nurtured was taking shape.

Gratitude played a considerable role in this journey.

Every morning, I took a moment to thank God—not just for the successes but also for the challenges.

They shaped me, strengthened my resolve, and brought FAVORIOT closer to its purpose.

Manifesting the Future

Today, as I look at FAVORIOT, I see more than just a company.

I see a dream realised.

I know the power of belief, visualisation, and action.

The Law of Attraction isn’t just about thinking positively; it’s about aligning your thoughts, actions, and energy toward your goals.

It’s about turning abstract ideas into tangible outcomes through focus and persistence.

“Where will FAVORIOT go from here?” I often ask myself.

The answer lies in the same principles that brought us this far.

I continue to visualise our growth, the impact we’ll create, and the lives we’ll touch.

The journey is ongoing, and the Law of Attraction remains my guide.

As I close my notebook for the day, I feel grateful.

FAVORIOT is more than a business; it’s a testament to the power of belief.

If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s this: when you align your thoughts, actions, and energy, the universe listens. And when the universe hears, anything is possible.

About Favoriot — Part-19: The Power of Imagination

Visualising Favoriot’s Bright Future

Imagination is often dismissed as a whimsical exercise, yet it’s the spark that ignites progress.

Reflecting on Favoriot’s journey, I realise how important it is to dream about the future we want to create.

Let me take you on a journey through an imagined future where Favoriot’s influence has transcended borders, industries, and expectations.

The IoT Trade Exhibition of Tomorrow

I picture myself walking into a grand IoT Trade Exhibition — something akin to the CES or the World Smart City Expo, but this time, it feels different.

The atmosphere buzzes with innovation, and as I navigate through the aisles, one thing becomes glaringly apparent: the Favoriot logo is everywhere. Booth after booth, exhibitors proudly display their demos powered by the Favoriot IoT platform.

Startups with groundbreaking hardware solutions, companies showcasing futuristic smart city concepts, and even AI-driven IoT applications — all are connected seamlessly through Favoriot.

It’s not just about data collection anymore; it’s about transforming that data into meaningful actions. Seeing this unfold in real-time, I feel an overwhelming sense of pride.

The exhibitors didn’t just choose Favoriot because it’s a platform; they chose it because it has become a trusted backbone for innovation, a name synonymous with reliability and scalability.

I imagine attendees — business leaders, developers, and students — crowding around these booths, asking how the integration works, marvelling at the ease of deployment, and realising the potential it unlocks for their projects.

I dreamt of this when we first built Favoriot: a world where our platform would be the silent enabler of extraordinary solutions.

Universities as IoT Powerhouses

My next stop in this imagined world is a university. Favoriot has become a standard name here—not just a tool but a part of the curriculum.

In lecture halls, professors discuss real-world IoT case studies, and students dive deep into hands-on learning, exploring the potential of IoT using the Favoriot platform.

I peeked into a lab where students were building their final-year projects. A team was working on a smart agriculture solution, leveraging Favoriot to monitor soil conditions and automate irrigation.

Another group is focused on smart health, creating wearable devices for chronic disease management.

They’re using Favoriot’s analytics features to visualise patient data.

It’s exhilarating to see how a tool we created has become the foundation for nurturing the next generation of IoT innovators.

Universities nationwide and even internationally now teach IoT through Favoriot.

IoT labs are equipped with pre-configured dashboards, APIs, and datasets, making it easy for students to start building.

What was once a platform we envisioned for businesses has become an educational cornerstone. Students graduate not only with degrees but also as skilled Favoriot-certified IoT professionals.

Local Councils and Smart Cities

As I step into a local council’s command centre, I see a vibrant dashboard powered by Favoriot.

The screen displays real-time data from various IoT solutions deployed throughout the city: smart streetlights, waste management sensors, flood detection systems, and air quality monitors.

This isn’t just a piecemeal solution; it’s an integrated system that combines everything under one roof.

The mayor stands by, explaining how this has revolutionised the council’s operations. “Favoriot has helped us move from reactive to proactive,” she says. “We no longer wait for complaints; we solve problems before they arise.”

This is what I imagined when we spoke about smart cities years ago—a city where data drives decision-making, not just to improve efficiency but to genuinely enhance the quality of life for its citizens.

Favoriot isn’t just another vendor in this ecosystem—it’s the platform local councils trust to aggregate and analyse IoT data, bridging the gap between diverse solutions and actionable insights.

IoT Product Houses and System Integrators

IoT product companies no longer struggle to create end-to-end solutions in this envisioned future.

Instead, they focus on what they do best — building world-class hardware or cutting-edge AI applications.

Favoriot fills the gap by providing a ready-made, robust platform to manage data collection and analysis.

Imagine a company specialising in healthcare sensors. Instead of spending years developing its own platform, it uses Favoriot to connect its devices.

This shortens its time-to-market, and its customers benefit from a complete solution that’s both scalable and user-friendly.

The same goes for system integrators, who rely on Favoriot to simplify IoT deployments for their clients.

System integrators have taken this even further by offering managed IoT services.

With Favoriot, they can provide their clients with dashboards, analytics, and customised solutions without the technical headache of building everything from scratch.

It’s a win-win: the integrators expand their business offerings, and Favoriot becomes the go-to platform for IoT scalability.

Expanding Globally with Partners

The most exciting part of this imagined future is Favoriot’s global footprint. We’ve partnered with overseas system integrators and distributors, allowing us to enter new markets quickly.

In Indonesia, a partner uses Favoriot to enable advanced agriculture systems. In Europe, we’re powering smart transportation initiatives. In Africa, Favoriot is the backbone of rural healthcare IoT solutions.

These partnerships aren’t just transactional; they’re built on a shared vision of what IoT can achieve.

By empowering local players in each market, Favoriot has become a global name synonymous with IoT excellence.

A Dream Fulfilled

I close my eyes and imagine standing on a stage at a significant IoT event. The lights dim, and a video showcases real-world success stories of Favoriot-powered solutions.

The impact is palpable, from smart cities to healthcare and agriculture to education.

As I speak, I’m reminded of how far we’ve come — not just as a company but as a community of dreamers and doers.

Favoriot’s success wasn’t just about technology but about believing in the power of imagination.

We imagined a world where IoT could truly transform lives when we started. Today, in this imagined future, that world has come alive.

So, is it wrong to imagine? Absolutely not.

Imagination is where dreams take shape and the seeds of innovation are planted.

As I look at Favoriot’s journey — from a small startup to a global IoT leader — I know that it all started with a simple yet powerful idea: to imagine the impossible and make it real.

Will this vision come true? I believe it will.

Because imagination, when paired with hard work, resilience, and the right team, can achieve wonders.

So, let’s keep imagining, dreaming, and building the future — one step at a time.