Tag: dailyprompt-1845

Life as a CEO: A Small Startup vs. a Big Conglomerate

The journey of a CEO is rarely a straight road. It’s a rollercoaster of challenges, decisions, and balancing acts. But there’s a world of difference between being the CEO of a small startup and leading a massive conglomerate. I’ve been on the startup side, and I’ve also witnessed how corporate giants operate. It’s like comparing running a speedboat to steering a cruise ship.

In this article, I’ll share how their daily lives differ and why their challenges are unique. Let’s start with the morning routines — that’s where everything begins.

The Morning Hustle

The Startup CEO:

5:30 AM — The alarm buzzes, but there’s no such thing as a leisurely morning. My head is already filled with thoughts about the next product release, an upcoming investor pitch, or the latest software update bug that refuses to go away.

I brew coffee while reading emails and scrolling through the latest tech news. There’s no PR team to summarize market trends for me, so I gather my intel. I quickly jot down a to-do list:

  • Prepare the investor deck
  • Follow up with our developer on the IoT dashboard issue
  • Post something on social media to keep our followers engaged

It’s a constant juggle of priorities. No two mornings are the same.

The Conglomerate CEO:

6:00 AM — The morning is calm, well-orchestrated, and efficient. A team has already prepared a briefing report summarizing key developments in the business world.

After a healthy breakfast, I glance through the latest business updates and reports while my assistant texts reminders for the day’s meetings:

  • 9:00 AM — Meeting with the board of directors
  • 11:00 AM — Media interview about the company’s latest sustainability initiative
  • 2:00 PM — Conference call with the regional heads

Unlike a startup CEO, my mornings are predictable, structured, and focused on high-level decision-making. There’s no need to check social media metrics or worry about customer support issues — those are already handled by various departments.

The Office Experience

The Startup CEO:

By 8:00 AM, I’m already in the office — a shared co-working space or a modest office with mismatched furniture. The vibe is casual, even chaotic at times. I greet the small team, and we immediately jump into problem-solving mode.

Every day feels like a battlefield. One moment, I’m reviewing code with the tech team, and the next, I’m on the phone with a potential client, trying to convince them why they should trust our tiny company over bigger competitors.

We work shoulder to shoulder, and no one is exempt from menial tasks. Need to arrange chairs for a meeting? I’ll do it. Startup life is hands-on, personal, and fast-paced. I wear multiple hats—CEO, marketer, fundraiser, and sometimes even janitor.

The Conglomerate CEO:

By 9:00 AM, I walk into a towering glass building with my name on the parking spot. The elevator ride to the top floor feels almost symbolic. My day begins with a briefing from key department heads. Each report is polished and filled with data and recommendations.

The office is sleek and well-organized. The energy is different — it’s calm but intense. Every decision I make here affects thousands of employees and shareholders. I’m not worried about cash flow daily — my focus is on strategy, acquisitions, and global market expansion.

The scale is massive, and my role is to steer the ship, ensuring we stay on course while navigating corporate politics and external pressures.

The Decision-Making Process

The Startup CEO:

Decisions are made quickly, often on the fly. There’s no time for endless meetings or layers of approval. I do it within hours, not weeks when I need to pivot.

But that speed comes with risks. There’s always a chance that a decision might backfire. Should we focus on product development or marketing this month? Should we take on that new project even though we’re already stretched thin? These are tough calls. Every decision feels personal because the company’s survival depends on it.

Sometimes, I make decisions based on instinct, especially when data is limited. It’s scary but also exhilarating.

The Conglomerate CEO:

In contrast, decisions here take time. There’s a process — meetings, discussions, and risk assessments. We have teams to analyze data, provide forecasts, and anticipate outcomes.

It’s less about survival and more about sustainability. I rarely make decisions alone; I rely on advisors, consultants, and senior managers to offer different perspectives. The stakes are higher, but the impact is spread out.

While a startup CEO’s decision could sink the company in weeks, a conglomerate CEO’s wrong move might take years to show its full effect.

Financial Worries

The Startup CEO:

Cash flow is king. Every cent matters. I constantly think about runway, burn rate, and when we’ll need to raise our next round of funding. Sleepless nights are worrying about whether we can pay our team next month.

Fundraising feels like a full-time job. Every meeting with an investor can be a turning point for the company. Rejection is part of the game—I’ve learned not to take it personally, though it’s hard sometimes.

The Conglomerate CEO:

Financial concerns are on a different scale. I’m not worried about payroll; I’m more concerned about quarterly earnings and how they’ll be perceived by investors and analysts.

I spend time with the CFO discussing mergers, acquisitions, and new market opportunities. We deal with billion-dollar decisions, not just survival tactics. The pressure is immense, but it’s more about growth than survival.

Personal Life and Work-Life Balance

The Startup CEO:

What is work-life balance?
My work is my life. There’s no clear boundary between the two. I’m constantly on call, responding to emails at midnight or brainstorming new ideas during dinner.

Weekends? Forget it. If I’m not at a networking event or reading the latest tech trends, I’m troubleshooting problems. It’s exhausting but deeply fulfilling. Every milestone, no matter how small, feels like a victory.

The Conglomerate CEO:

It’s easier to draw a line between work and personal life. I have a strong support system—assistants, advisors, and teams—that allows me to take a step back when needed.

That doesn’t mean there’s no stress. The pressure is constant, and the stakes are higher. But I’ve learned to delegate effectively, something a startup CEO often struggles with.

Vacations are possible, though they come with a phone full of notifications. Still, it’s a different stress — more about reputation and legacy than immediate survival.

Final Thoughts

Being a CEO, whether of a startup or a conglomerate, is a unique experience with challenges and rewards.

A startup CEO is like a gladiator in the arena, fighting daily for survival and growth. Meanwhile, a conglomerate CEO is a general commanding an army, focusing on strategy, long-term vision, and sustainable success.

If you ask me which life is better? Well, it depends on what excites you. Do you love the adrenaline rush of building something from nothing? Or do you prefer the thrill of leading a global giant toward its next significant conquest?

In the end, both paths are challenging. But one thing’s certain — neither is easy and requires resilience, adaptability, and a strong sense of purpose.

And who knows, maybe one day that small startup CEO will be the conglomerate CEO — but they’ll never forget where they started.

The Story Behind Favoriot – Part 12: The Dream of M&A Exit

I had this ultimate dream that many of us have when we start a company: that grand exit.

Why Startups Opt for This Path

The idea of an IPO—the pinnacle where our company becomes publicly listed, and the rewards are far beyond what we’ve ever imagined—can feel like the ultimate destination.

The dream is intoxicating.

But the reality is far more complex. The path to an IPO isn’t a straight highway; it’s a winding trail filled with unexpected challenges, tough decisions, and occasional compromises.

When I started, the vision seemed crystal clear—build something valuable, scale it, and eventually take it public.

Sounds simple, right? Well, that was naïve Mazlan talking.

I remember those early days vividly. The excitement was palpable.

We had endless discussions about Pre-Seed, Seed, Series A funding rounds. The belief was strong: If we just worked hard enough and stayed smart, we’d be among the chosen few to make it to an IPO.

But as time passed, reality caught up with me. That dream, while not impossible, was far from guaranteed.

The Harsh Reality of IPOs

Achieving an IPO isn’t just about having a good idea or even a great product. It’s about building a business with substantial revenue, stable income, and scalable global operations.

And that’s not something you accomplish overnight—or even in a few years.

It requires relentless innovation and flawless execution over a long period, often under the unforgiving scrutiny of investors and competitors.

Even then, the odds remain slim. Many founders, myself included, have faced the tough decision: Do we keep pushing toward the elusive IPO, or do we consider an alternative exit like a merger or acquisition (M&A)?

The Case for M&A: When the Alternative Makes Sense

Selling the company—especially to a larger corporate entity—can seem attractive when scaling becomes overwhelming. But here’s the thing: selling is not just about cashing out.

It’s about finding the right buyer who sees the real value in what you’ve built. Sometimes, that value lies in your technology, team, or even your foothold in a specific market.

When I started exploring M&A options, I quickly learned that companies acquire startups for various reasons. Let’s break it down.

1. Technology Acquisition

One of the most common reasons large corporations acquire startups is to gain access to cutting-edge technology. Developing something innovative in-house takes time, resources, and risk. Bureaucratic layers in big companies make it hard to iterate quickly or pivot when things go wrong.

Acquiring a startup that has already proven its worth is often the fastest route to innovation.

I’ve seen firsthand how some startups became prime targets because they had unique technology that a larger company couldn’t replicate. It’s faster—and often cheaper—for the big players to buy a startup than to build it from scratch.

2. Talent Acquisition or “Acqui-Hiring”

Talent is the lifeblood of innovation. However, finding skilled people with a startup mindset is incredibly difficult in today’s market, and large corporations know this all too well.

Sometimes, the quickest way to bring fresh talent into the organization is to acquire a startup outright.

I’ve seen startups being acquired just for their talent. This process, known as “acqui-hiring,” may not be the dream exit for every founder, but it can be a viable and profitable option. It also allows team members to take on more prominent roles within the acquiring company, often with more resources at their disposal.

3. Market Access

Startups are nimble. We can pivot quickly, explore niche markets, and enter spaces that larger corporations might overlook or deem too risky.

Larger companies often want in once a startup proves that a market is viable. Acquiring the startup becomes their fastest way to capture that market without starting from scratch.

I’ve experienced this scenario personally. Big companies aren’t constantly chasing technology alone; sometimes, they’re after the customer base and market positioning that the startup has painstakingly built.

4. Killing the Competition

Here’s the darker side of M&A.

In highly competitive industries, some companies acquire startups just to shut them down. It sounds counterintuitive, right?

But it happens. A large corporation might see a startup as a potential threat—not because it’s taking market share now, but because it could in the future. By acquiring and dismantling the startup, they eliminate a competitor before it becomes a problem.

Reflecting on Personal Experiences

I was once approached by a large corporation interested in acquiring my startup. They were impressed with our technology and saw it as a perfect fit for their portfolio. I remember sitting down and thinking, “Is this the right move? “Would selling mean giving up control of something I’ve poured my heart and soul into? “

These decisions aren’t easy. You start questioning everything:

  • Am I ready to let go?
  • Will my team thrive in a corporate environment?
  • What happens to my vision once I step away?

Looking back, I realize that exits—whether through an IPO or an acquisition—are just milestones, not the end goal. The real value lies in the experiences, lessons learned, and impact you make.

Advice to Founders Contemplating an Exit

If I had to offer advice to fellow founders considering their exit strategy, it would be this:

  • Don’t rush the decision. Take your time to evaluate all your options.
  • Think beyond the financials. Consider what’s best for your personal and professional growth.
  • Stay true to your vision and values. The right exit will come when the timing is right.

Ultimately, whether you exit through an IPO, an acquisition, or by moving on to your next venture, what matters most is that you’ve built something meaningful. Something that made a difference.

And that’s a legacy no exit strategy can ever take away.

Final Thoughts: Building for the Journey, Not Just the Exit

The dream of a grand exit might be what fuels many of us in the early days, but as the journey unfolds, you realize it’s about much more than that.

It’s about the people you meet, the obstacles you overcome, and the solutions you bring to life. It’s about the lives you touch and the legacy you leave behind.

If you’re building a startup, remember this:

Don’t just build for the exit. Build for the journey.

The exit will take care of itself when the time is right.

More Favoriot Entrepreneurship Stories

  1. The Story Behind Favoriot – Part 11: The Rocky Road of Smart Cities
  2. The Story Behind Favoriot — Part 10: Age Does Not Matter in Business
  3. The Story Behind Favoriot — Part 9: Leaving the Comfort Zone
  4. The Story Behind Favoriot – Part 8: The Frustration of Unanswered Emails and Missed Opportunities
  5. The Story Behind Favoriot – Part 7: The Task of Finding Favoriot’s First 10 Customers
  6. The Story Behind Favoriot – Part 6: Expanding The Business Models
  7. The Story Behind Favoriot – Part 5: Finding the Right Fit
  8. The Story Behind Favoriot – Part 4: How Favoriot Became More Than Just an IoT Platform
  9. The Story Behind Favoriot – Part 3: Why No One Wanted Our IoT Platform—And How We Turned It Around
  10. The Story Behind Favoriot – Part 2: Turning Failures into Milestones
  11. The Story Behind Favoriot – Part I: The Humble Beginnings of Favoriot

Understanding the Difference Between AI Agents and Agentic AI: My Take with Real-World Examples

When I first came across the term Agentic AI, I instinctively brushed it off as just another buzzword. Isn’t this just another AI agent with a fancy name? After all, we’ve been living with AI agents for quite some time—chatbots, virtual assistants, and recommendation engines—all working tirelessly behind the scenes. But the more I read about it, the more I realised that Agentic AI is not just an incremental improvement; it’s a whole new level of intelligence and autonomy.

Let me start by explaining the basics: What is an AI agent, and what makes Agentic AI so different?

AI Agents: The Reliable Taskmasters

Think of an AI agent as your dependable assistant. It performs specific tasks based on well-defined rules and algorithms. It doesn’t think beyond its programmed scope, and it certainly doesn’t surprise you with any independent decisions. In fact, you could say it’s like a diligent clerk who follows instructions to the letter without question. It gets the job done—no more, no less.

Here are a few examples of AI agents that you’ve probably interacted with:

  1. Customer Support Chatbots:
    Imagine you’re on a website trying to reset your password. You type your question into a chat window, and the bot quickly provides a step-by-step guide. You’ll get your answer in seconds if your question falls within its programmed scope. But if you ask something more complex about a unique error message, it politely directs you to a human representative.
    That’s a classic AI agent. Efficient for routine tasks but limited in scope.
  2. E-commerce Product Recommendation Engines:
    You browse for a new smartphone on your favourite online store. The AI behind the scenes tracks your clicks, analyses your preferences, and suggests related products like phone cases or screen protectors. It works based on data patterns, but it doesn’t truly understand why you want a particular product. It just knows how to push related items your way.
  3. Virtual Personal Assistants (to a Limited Extent):
    AI assistants like Siri or Google Assistant can tell you the weather, set reminders, or give directions. But try asking them to solve a complex, multi-step problem, and they’ll quickly hit their limits. They’re programmed to help with specific tasks—not to independently pursue a goal or adapt in real time.

In short, AI agents are practical tools. They’re predictable, reliable, and perfect for repetitive or straightforward tasks. But they cannot go beyond what they’ve been programmed to do.

Agentic AI: The Autonomous Strategist

Now, here’s where things get exciting. Agentic AI is not just about following instructions—it’s about adapting, learning, and making independent decisions based on broader goals.

If an AI agent is a clerk, then Agentic AI is more like an experienced project manager who understands the bigger picture. It doesn’t wait for step-by-step instructions. Instead, it analyses the situation, sets its own goals, and figures out how to achieve them—all while adapting to changing circumstances.

Let me give you some real-world examples to illustrate how Agentic AI stands apart:

  1. Autonomous Financial Analysts:
    Imagine an AI system that monitors the stock market in real time, identifies investment opportunities, and makes decisions without human intervention. Unlike traditional AI agents, which might only send alerts or generate reports, Agentic AI can buy and sell stocks, adjust its strategy based on market trends, and learn from past mistakes.
    This isn’t just automation; it’s a new level of autonomy and adaptability.
  2. Drug Discovery in Pharmaceutical Research:
    In the field of drug discovery, Agentic AI systems can predict how molecules will behave, propose new compounds, and optimise chemical synthesis processes—all without human guidance. These systems reduce the time it takes to develop new drugs from years to months.
    Think about that for a second—AI independently proposing and testing new drugs! That’s Agentic AI in action.
  3. Autonomous Vehicles (Beyond Self-Driving Cars):
    When people hear about autonomous vehicles, most think of self-driving cars. But Agentic AI goes further. Imagine an AI managing an entire fleet of autonomous delivery drones. It not only plans optimal delivery routes but also adapts to changing weather, traffic conditions, and customer demands without a single human intervention.

My Take: Why This Difference Matters

When I first tried to wrap my head around the difference between AI agents and Agentic AI, I struggled. I thought, Does this really matter in the grand scheme of things? Aren’t they both just AI doing what AI does best—helping us?

But the more I thought about it, the more significant this distinction was. AI agents are like tools that extend our abilities. At the same time, Agentic AI represents an entirely new collaborative partner that can take the initiative, learn, and adapt in ways we never thought possible.

Imagine the potential:

  • Businesses could rely on Agentic AI to autonomously manage entire operations, reducing human workload and enabling employees to focus on creative, high-level tasks.
  • In healthcare, Agentic AI can monitor patients, adjust treatments in real-time, and even predict potential complications before they arise.
  • Governments could use Agentic AI to manage smart city infrastructures, balancing energy consumption, traffic flow, and public safety without human intervention.

What Could Go Wrong?

Of course, this kind of autonomy comes with risks. We’re entering uncharted territory. What happens when Agentic AI makes decisions that conflict with human values or priorities? How do we ensure it remains aligned with our goals?

We need to grapple with these questions as we embrace this new wave of AI technology. It’s exciting, but it’s also a bit intimidating. How do we strike the right balance between autonomy and control?

Final Thoughts

Understanding the difference between AI agents and Agentic AI isn’t just an academic exercise—it’s essential for anyone working with technology today. AI agents will continue to play an important role in handling routine tasks, but the future belongs to Agentic AI.

The next time you interact with a chatbot or an AI-powered system, think about where it falls on this spectrum. Is it an AI agent, just following a script? Or is it something more—an independent strategist capable of adapting, learning, and making decisions on its own?

Personally, I can’t wait to see how Agentic AI evolves.

It’s not just about making life easier but redefining what’s possible.

Harnessing the Power of Positive Thinking: Your Blueprint for a Resilient Mindset

In life, it’s easy to get caught up in negativity, especially when things don’t go your way.

You’ve probably faced days when problems felt overwhelming and solutions seemed out of reach.

But what if you could change how you respond to those challenges?

By shifting your mindset and adopting positive thinking, you’ll not only navigate difficulties more effectively but also improve your overall well-being.

Let’s break down how you can cultivate this powerful mindset in your everyday life.

1. Understanding Why Mindset Matters

Think of your mindset as the lens through which you view the world. If that lens is clouded with negativity, everything appears difficult and discouraging. On the flip side, when you approach life with a positive mindset, obstacles become opportunities, and failures turn into valuable lessons.

Positive thinking isn’t about ignoring reality or pretending that everything is perfect. It’s about controlling your response to what happens around you. Instead of focusing on problems, you’ll start seeing solutions. Science supports this idea too—research shows that positive thinking reduces stress, improves mental health, and helps build stronger relationships.

2. Spotting Negative Thought Patterns

You can’t change what you don’t notice. Pay close attention to your inner dialogue. How often do you catch yourself thinking things like:

• “I’ll never succeed at this.”

• “Why does this always happen to me?”

• “I’m just not good enough.”

These negative thought patterns don’t just lower your confidence; they also limit your potential. But here’s the good news—you can rewire your mind by replacing these thoughts with empowering alternatives.

Action Tip: The next time a negative thought pops up, challenge it. Ask yourself: “Is this thought helping me? How can I reframe it?”

For instance, change “I’ll never succeed” into “I’m learning and getting better every day.”

3. Daily Habits to Cultivate Positivity

Adopting a positive mindset takes practice, but small daily habits can make a big difference. Here’s how you can get started:

Start Your Day with Gratitude

Every morning, write down three things you’re grateful for. It could be as simple as a good night’s sleep or a supportive friend. This simple act shifts your focus from what’s lacking to what’s already abundant in your life.

Surround Yourself with Positivity

You are the sum of the people you spend the most time with. If your circle is full of negative energy, it’s time to rethink who you let into your space. Seek out people who uplift you, inspire you, and share your enthusiasm for growth.

Limit Negative Inputs

The news, social media, or even toxic conversations can drain your energy. While staying informed is essential, be mindful of how much negativity you consume. Take breaks and protect your mental space.

Learn from Setbacks

Failures are inevitable, but how you react to them makes all the difference. Instead of dwelling on what went wrong, focus on what you can learn. Each failure is a step closer to success.

Practice Positive Self-Talk

Your inner dialogue can be your biggest supporter or harshest critic. Treat yourself with the same kindness and encouragement you would offer a close friend. Speak words that build you up rather than tear you down.

4. Self-Talk: Your Inner Coach

Imagine you’re about to give an important presentation, but anxiety creeps in. Your inner voice starts whispering: “What if I mess this up? Everyone will think I’m a failure.”

Now, pause for a second. What if you could switch that voice into an encouraging coach instead? “I’ve prepared for this. I’m ready. I’ve got this.”

Talking to yourself isn’t strange—it’s a powerful tool for realigning your thoughts. When self-doubt creeps in, speak to yourself out loud as you would advise a friend. You’ll be surprised how much clarity it brings.

5. Positivity as a Leadership Tool

If you’re in a leadership role—whether at work, in your family, or within your community—your mindset directly impacts those around you. Your energy is contagious. When you stay calm, focused, and optimistic during tough times, others will follow your lead.

As a leader, it’s essential to model the mindset you want others to adopt. It’s not just about solving problems; it’s about showing resilience and inspiring those around you to keep pushing forward.

6. The Ripple Effect of Positive Thinking

Positivity doesn’t just benefit you—it creates a ripple effect that spreads to those around you. Your friends, family, and colleagues will notice the shift. They’ll feed off your energy and feel more encouraged to approach life with the same optimism.

When you choose positivity, you’re not just improving your own life; you’re making the world around you a little brighter too.

7. A Daily Commitment to Growth

Positive thinking isn’t a one-time fix; it’s a lifelong practice. Some days will be easier than others, and that’s okay. What matters is your commitment to getting back on track when negativity creeps in.

Remind yourself: “I have the power to choose how I respond to this.”

Embrace the Power Within You

Your thoughts are more powerful than you realise. They shape your reality and dictate your actions. By adopting positive thinking, you open yourself up to endless possibilities. Start small—replace one negative thought today. Add a daily gratitude practice. Surround yourself with uplifting influences.

With time, you’ll notice the shift—not just in your mindset but in every area of your life. You’ll become more resilient, more confident, and more equipped to handle whatever comes your way.

The power of positive thinking is within your reach. The only question is: Are you ready to harness it?

Let me know if you want this expanded with more personal anecdotes or examples!

Types of Analytics

Today, we’ll discuss types of analytics and their importance in turning raw data into actionable insights.

This diagram shows four types of analytics, ranked by their difficulty level and the value they provide. Let’s go through them step by step.

Based on the eBook — IoT Notes by Mazlan Abbas

1. Descriptive Analytics: What Happened?

At the base of the analytics hierarchy is descriptive analytics. This is the simplest form of analytics and helps us understand what happened by interpreting historical data.

  • Purpose: To summarise past events and identify patterns.
  • Example: A smart thermostat that shows last week’s energy usage patterns.
  • Methods: Charts, graphs, and dashboards that clearly show past performance.

This type of analytics is great for reviewing the past, but it doesn’t tell us why something happened or what will happen next.

2. Diagnostic Analytics: Why Did It Happen?

Moving up, we have diagnostic analytics, which looks at why something happened. It’s more complex than descriptive analytics because it requires diving deeper into the data.

  • Purpose: To discover relationships and identify the causes behind past events.
  • Example: Analysing why a specific day’s energy usage was higher than average by correlating data with external factors like weather.
  • Methods: Data discovery, drill-down techniques, and correlation analysis.

This stage helps us make sense of the past by understanding the root causes of trends and anomalies.

3. Predictive Analytics: What Will Happen?

Next is predictive analytics, which focuses on forecasting future outcomes. This is where analytics becomes proactive rather than reactive.

  • Purpose: To predict what might happen based on current and historical data.
  • Example: A smart thermostat forecasting energy usage for the upcoming week based on weather patterns and past behaviour.
  • Methods: Statistical modelling and simulations.

By identifying trends and patterns, predictive analytics helps us make informed predictions.

4. Prescriptive Analytics: How Can We Make It Happen?

At the top is prescriptive analytics, the most advanced type. This involves predicting outcomes and recommending actions to achieve desired results.

  • Purpose: To decide the best course of action based on predictions.
  • Example: A smart thermostat automatically adjusting settings to save energy while maintaining comfort.
  • Methods: Machine learning and AI to analyse probabilities and make decisions.

Prescriptive analytics provides the highest value by enabling automated and data-driven decisions.

IoT and Analytics

This diagram also highlights how analytics works in an IoT platform:

  1. Sensors: Collect data from various sources like temperature, humidity, or movement.
  2. IoT Platform: Acts as a central hub to process and store the data.
  3. Analytics Engine: Applies these four types of analytics to generate insights and drive decisions.

Final Thoughts

Each type of analytics builds on the previous one, moving from simple data interpretation to actionable decisions. The value increases as we move up the hierarchy, as does the complexity.

Question to consider: Which type of analytics is most valuable in your industry, and how can you implement it effectively? Let’s discuss it!

[Note: Download IoT Notes by Mazlan Abbas ]