Tag: IoT

An Open Letter to All Mayors in Malaysia

Dear Mayors of Malaysia,

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

✅ A phased approach to implementation.

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

✅ A governance structure for managing cross-department initiatives.

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

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

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

Malaysia needs a centralized Smart City IoT platform that:

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

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

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

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

3. Solve Traffic Congestion with Smart Mobility Solutions

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

5. Embrace Green and Sustainable Solutions

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

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

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

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

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

6. Improve Citizen Engagement Through Digital Governance

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

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

🌐 Smart City Citizen Portals to access city services seamlessly.

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

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

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

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

Every city needs a Smart City PMO to:

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

🔄 Coordinate between different city departments and agencies.

🤝 Facilitate partnerships with private sector players and universities.

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

The Future of Malaysia’s Cities

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

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

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

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

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

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

Are you ready to build the city of tomorrow?

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

Sincerely,

Dr. Mazlan Abbas

CEO & Co-Founder,

FAVORIOT Sdn Bhd

A Letter to My 100-Year-Old Self

Dear Mazlan,

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

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

Did You Finally Slow Down?

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

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

I sincerely hope not.

Did FAVORIOT Become the Legacy You Dreamed Of?

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

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

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

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

What Lessons Did You Learn?

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

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

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

Did the World Change the Way You Hoped?

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

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

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

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

I hope we got it right.

Are You at Peace?

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

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

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

Final Thoughts

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

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

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

With admiration,

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

What Experiences in Life Helped Me Grow the Most?

I often ask myself—what were the turning points in my life that shaped who I am today? Were they the moments of success, or the times I stumbled and fell?

Life is a constant journey of growth, and the experiences that shape us the most aren’t always the easiest. In my case, several key moments in my life helped me evolve—not just as a professional in the tech industry but as a person. These experiences range from my childhood curiosity about science fiction to my transition from academia to entrepreneurship. Every phase brought new lessons, unexpected challenges, and growth that I could never have predicted.

1. Childhood Curiosity: The Seed of Exploration

I grew up fascinated by science fiction. The Jetsons, Land of the Giants, DC Comics—these weren’t just entertainment for me. They were glimpses into the future I wanted to be part of. I was obsessed with technology before I even understood what it really meant. My love for science fiction wasn’t just about flying cars and futuristic cities; it was about the endless possibilities that technology could offer.

This curiosity led me to engineering. I wanted to understand how things worked, how technology evolved, and how it could shape the world. Looking back, my childhood fascination with futuristic gadgets planted the seed of exploration in me. It taught me the value of imagination—a crucial skill that would later help me innovate in the IoT industry.

2. My First Job: The Reality Check

Like most fresh graduates, I entered my first job with excitement and idealism. I was eager to prove myself. My first major role was in CELCOM Axiata, a leading telecom company. I thought I knew a lot. I thought my academic knowledge would be enough. But within the first few months, I realized something—university had only given me theories, not the reality of working in a corporate environment.

I had to deal with deadlines, decision-making under pressure, and—most importantly—people. I had to learn how to navigate office politics, how to communicate my ideas effectively, and how to handle failure. This experience was humbling. It was a reality check that forced me to become adaptable, resilient, and willing to learn from mistakes. It was during this phase that I realized—growth comes when you’re uncomfortable.

3. Moving into the Government Sector: A Shift in Perspective

After years in the corporate world, I transitioned into MIMOS Berhad, a government research agency. If working in a telco was fast-paced and business-driven, MIMOS was the opposite—it was about long-term innovation, research, and policies. I suddenly found myself in a world of bureaucracy, funding approvals, and national development plans.

At first, it frustrated me. Why was everything so slow? Why did decision-making take so long? But then I understood—the stakes were different. In the corporate world, time was money. In the government sector, time was strategy. Every project had to align with national goals and long-term sustainability.

This experience taught me patience and strategic thinking. I learned to see the bigger picture. It also gave me insights into how governments operate—a lesson that would later prove invaluable when working on smart city projects.

4. Academia: The Teacher Becomes the Student

Becoming an Adjunct Professor was an entirely different challenge. I was used to being an industry leader, but now, I had to teach and mentor students. How do I translate real-world experience into something a classroom full of young minds can absorb?

Academia forced me to simplify complex concepts, to make technology accessible. It also reminded me of the importance of curiosity. Students asked questions that I never thought about. They challenged my assumptions. They pushed me to rethink what I thought I knew.

Teaching wasn’t just about giving knowledge—it was about learning from fresh perspectives. This role helped me refine my ability to communicate complex ideas in a way that made sense to people outside the industry. This skill became crucial when I started writing and giving keynote speeches.

5. The Entrepreneurial Leap: Starting FAVORIOT

Nothing in my life tested my resilience more than starting my own company, FAVORIOT. I had spent years working in large organizations with stable salaries and structured environments. But when I stepped into the world of entrepreneurship, I realized something—no one tells you how hard it really is.

Starting FAVORIOT meant wearing multiple hats—CEO, marketer, salesperson, product manager, and sometimes even customer support. It meant dealing with financial uncertainty, pitching to investors, and convincing clients to trust a new brand.

The biggest lesson? Failure is part of the journey.

There were months when we struggled to get traction. There were moments when I questioned my decision—Did I make a mistake leaving my stable career? Will this ever work? But every setback forced me to adapt, to innovate, and to push forward.

Entrepreneurship taught me that growth isn’t about avoiding failure—it’s about learning how to get back up, over and over again.

6. Public Speaking and Writing: The Unexpected Growth

I never considered myself a writer or a speaker. Yet, as I built my brand, I found myself on global stages, delivering keynote speeches on IoT, smart cities, and entrepreneurship. I started writing articles, sharing my experiences, and engaging with audiences online.

At first, it was uncomfortable. What if no one reads my articles? What if my talks aren’t engaging? But I soon realized that sharing knowledge is one of the best ways to grow. Writing helped me refine my thoughts. Speaking helped me build confidence. And both helped me connect with people from around the world.

I learned that growth often happens when you step outside your comfort zone and do things you never imagined yourself doing.

7. The Personal Lessons: Family and Balance

Through all these professional experiences, the biggest lessons came from my personal life. Balancing work, family, and personal aspirations is never easy. There were times when I was too focused on my career, neglecting the people who mattered most.

It took me years to realize that success means nothing if you don’t have people to share it with. Learning to prioritize family, to make time for moments that truly matter—that was one of the hardest but most important lessons of all.

Final Thoughts: Growth Never Stops

Looking back, the experiences that helped me grow the most weren’t the easy ones. They were the challenges, the failures, and the uncomfortable transitions. They were the moments that pushed me to adapt, to question myself, and to keep moving forward even when I felt like giving up.

Growth is not about reaching a final destination. It’s a continuous journey. And if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s this—the best way to grow is to keep challenging yourself, keep learning, and never stop exploring new possibilities.

Get Your FREE IoT eBook Now – Limited Time Offer!

Want to start an IoT project but don’t know where to begin?

I get it. IoT is exciting yet overwhelming—so many components, protocols, architectures, and business models. You’ve probably asked yourself:

“Where do I even start?”
“Which IoT platform should I use?”
“How do I build a scalable solution?”

That’s precisely why I wrote “IoT Notes”—a simple, structured, and no-nonsense guide to help you kickstart your IoT journey without confusion.

Why This eBook is Essential for IoT Beginners & Professionals

The Internet of Things is not the future—it’s NOW. Businesses, industries, and even everyday life are being revolutionized by IoT. If you don’t learn about it today, you risk falling behind.

📖 “IoT Notes” covers everything you need to understand, plan, and implement IoT solutions:

✔ What is IoT? (Explained simply, without the tech jargon)
✔ How IoT helps fight COVID-19 (Real-world case studies)
✔ IoT & the Fourth Industrial Revolution – Why now is the best time to get involved
✔ How IoT impacts businesses – Key success factors and challenges
✔ 7 IoT Business Models – How to monetize IoT solutions
✔ Comparing IoT protocols – MQTT vs HTTP, LPWAN, and network choices
✔ IoT architecture & system integration – How everything connects
✔ Top 10 skills to become an IoT Engineer
✔ Favoriot IoT Platform – How to get started for free!
✔ And much more! (Subscribers get free future updates!)

📥 Download “IoT Notes” for FREE – Limited Time Only!

Yes, you read that right. It’s FREE! But if you find it valuable, you can choose to support future content with a small contribution.

🔗 Click here to grab your free copy now!

IoT is shaping the world—don’t get left behind. Download the eBook now and take your first step into the IoT revolution! 🚀

See you inside!

Dr. Mazlan Abbas
IoT Evangelist | Favoriot Co-Founder

Favoriot and PT Lima Dua Satu Indonesia Join Forces to Boost Indonesia’s 100 Smart Cities Movement

FAVORIOT NEWS

FAVORIOT GLOBAL PARTNER

Jakarta, Indonesia — Favoriot, a prominent IoT platform provider, has signed a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with PT Lima Dua Satu Indonesia on October 7, 2024, to support Indonesia’s ambitious 100 Smart Cities Movement.

This collaboration underscores their commitment to driving technological innovation and sustainable urban development in Indonesia.

Aligning with the 100 Smart Cities Movement

Indonesia’s 100 Smart Cities Movement, initiated in 2017, aims to transform 100 cities into smart, sustainable urban centres by 2045. The initiative addresses key urban challenges such as traffic congestion, inefficient waste management, and limited access to public services by integrating advanced technologies.

Favoriot’s partnership with PT Lima Dua Satu Indonesia directly supports this vision by introducing scalable IoT solutions tailored to the unique needs of Indonesian cities.

Dr. Mazlan Abbas, CEO of Favoriot, expressed optimism about the partnership’s impact: “This collaboration with PT Lima Dua Satu Indonesia represents a shared vision of leveraging IoT to solve urban challenges. Together, we aim to empower city administrators with real-time data and insights to make informed decisions that improve citizens’ quality of life.”

IoT Solutions for Urban Transformation

Through this partnership, Favoriot’s robust IoT platform will be deployed to address core areas identified in the smart city framework:

  • Traffic Management: IoT sensors and analytics tools will monitor traffic patterns, helping city officials manage congestion and plan better transportation networks.
  • Waste Management: Smart waste bins with IoT sensors will optimise waste collection routes, reducing costs and environmental impact.
  • Energy Efficiency: IoT-enabled energy monitoring systems will support smart grid implementations, ensuring efficient use of energy resources.
  • Public Safety: IoT devices such as smart cameras and motion sensors will enhance security and emergency response systems.

PT Lima Dua Satu Indonesia’s local expertise will facilitate the seamless implementation of these solutions, ensuring they align with each city’s specific requirements.

Supporting Smart City Initiatives in Jatinangor

The collaboration also aims to complement smart city initiatives like the development of Jatinangor in Sumedang Regency.

Favoriot’s IoT platform can support these initiatives by:

  • Enhancing Connectivity: Providing IoT solutions to integrate data from different urban systems for better decision-making.
  • Improving Resource Management: Offering tools to optimise the use of energy, water, and waste management in growing urban areas like Jatinangor.
  • Encouraging Collaborative Efforts: Bridging government and private sector cooperation to accelerate the realisation of smart city goals.

With PT Lima Dua Satu Indonesia’s local knowledge and Favoriot’s technological expertise, this partnership can strengthen the foundation of smart city projects in smaller yet strategic areas like Jatinangor, further contributing to the nationwide 100 Smart Cities Movement.

Supporting Indonesia’s Digital Transformation Goals

The MOU aligns with the broader goals of “Making Indonesia 4.0,” a national roadmap that prioritises digital transformation as a key driver of economic growth.

The partnership also aims to build a skilled workforce capable of managing and innovating within the IoT ecosystem by providing training programs and workshops.

This collaborative effort will foster a vibrant digital economy while addressing urbanisation challenges.

Accelerating Smart City Adoption

One of the critical success factors for the 100 Smart Cities Movement is the integration of advanced technologies to create citizen-centric solutions. Favoriot’s IoT platform, combined with PT Lima Dua Satu Indonesia’s local insights, will:

  • Empower city governments with data-driven tools for decision-making.
  • Enable seamless collaboration between public and private stakeholders.
  • Deliver innovative applications that enhance urban living standards.

By focusing on practical and scalable IoT applications, this partnership can accelerate the adoption of smart city initiatives and inspire confidence in the feasibility of achieving Indonesia’s goal of 100 smart cities by 2045.

Looking Ahead

As Indonesia pushes forward with its smart city agenda, collaborations like this MOU are pivotal in transforming urban areas into sustainable and digitally connected communities.

Favoriot and PT Lima Dua Satu Indonesia’s joint efforts are poised to set a benchmark for how IoT can address real-world challenges, making the dream of 100 smart cities a reality.

Why is IoT Growing Now?

IOT NOTES

Lecture Notes

Based on eBook — IoT Notes by Mazlan Abbas

Today, let’s explore why the Internet of Things (IoT) is experiencing a surge in awareness and adoption in recent years. The diagram provides five apparent factors driving this growth, so let’s walk through each step.

1. Hardware Advancements

The first driver of IoT adoption is the rapid development of hardware. Devices are now:

  • Cheaper: The cost of sensors, processors, and connectivity modules has dropped significantly.
  • More Powerful: Today’s smartphones, for instance, are as powerful as the computers that send astronauts to the moon.
  • Smaller: Miniaturisation has made it easier to embed technology into all sorts of devices, from wearable health trackers to smart home appliances.

These advancements make IoT devices accessible to more people and industries.

2. Network Expansion

IoT depends on connectivity, and networks have become more pervasive and diverse:

  • We now have Wi-Fi, 4G/5G, LoRa, NFC, and even satellite networks connecting devices across the globe.
  • This widespread coverage ensures that IoT devices can communicate, no matter where they are located.

Imagine this: You can monitor a sensor in a remote farm or track a shipping container in the middle of the ocean because of this pervasive network infrastructure.

3. Easier and Faster Software Development

Creating IoT solutions has become simpler because:

  • Software tools and platforms are now more user-friendly.
  • Developers can build and deploy solutions quickly with pre-built frameworks, cloud computing, and open-source libraries.

What used to take months or years to program can now be done in days or weeks, speeding up innovation in IoT.

4. Moore’s Law: The Power of Computation

You may have heard of Moore’s Law, which states that the number of transistors on a chip doubles approximately every two years. This leads to:

  • Higher computational power: Devices can handle more complex tasks, such as AI and data processing, on smaller chips.
  • Lower costs over time: IoT solutions can scale quickly with more powerful chips becoming affordable.

This exponential growth in computing power has made IoT a reality.

5. The Network Effect

The network effect explains how IoT becomes more valuable as more connected devices. Here’s why:

  • Everything is connected: Sensors, devices, and systems communicate and generate data.
  • Data generation: The more devices there are, the more data we have. This data can be analysed to gain insights, optimise processes, and improve decision-making.

For example, a smart city network with connected traffic lights, sensors, and cameras can reduce congestion and improve safety by analysing real-time data.

Historical Context

  • The term “IoT” was first coined by Kevin Ashton in 1999.
  • It took years of technological progress for IoT to become mainstream. By 2020, IoT reached a tipping point, integrating with industries worldwide.

Why Now?

The convergence of cheaper hardware, pervasive networks, faster software development, computational power (thanks to Moore’s Law), and the network effect have created the perfect environment for IoT to flourish.

IoT is no longer a futuristic concept — it’s a reality shaping industries like agriculture, healthcare, and manufacturing.

Let’s discuss: Which of these factors do you think has had the biggest impact on IoT adoption? How can we use these advancements to innovate further in our fields?

[Note: Download full IoT Notes eBook]

The Lonely Struggles of a Founder: The Silent Battle No One Sees

Another sleepless night. The clock shows 3:47 AM, but my mind is far from resting. I stare at the ceiling, watching shadows move with the passing headlights outside. My thoughts? A never-ending loop of problems, solutions, ideas, and fears. Will FAVORIOT make it? Are we moving fast enough? What if we fail?

If you’re a founder, you know this feeling too well. The burden of running a startup never leaves. Whether it’s a weekend, a public holiday, or a late-night teh tarik session with friends, the weight of the company is always there. There’s no “off switch.”

People from the outside might admire the entrepreneurial journey, imagining it as glamorous—being your own boss, calling the shots, making a difference. But behind closed doors, it’s a battle of survival.

And the most challenging part? The loneliness.

The Invisible Weight of Leadership

When you’re a founder, everything falls on your shoulders. The revenue, the product roadmap, the team’s morale, customer satisfaction, partnerships, investments—everything. And if things go wrong, there’s no one else to blame.

Employees can leave if things get tough. Investors only care about numbers. Customers just want their problems solved. But the founder? We have no escape. Even if we take a break, our minds never do.

I’ve had nights where I wake up from a nightmare, heart pounding because I dreamt of something going wrong—losing a big deal, a major system failure, running out of funds. And the worst part? Sometimes, these nightmares become reality.

Who do I talk to about this? My team? No, they look up to me for guidance. My spouse? She listens, but she will never truly feel the weight I carry. My friends? Most of them are in corporate jobs with steady paychecks. They don’t understand what it’s like to wake up daily with the responsibility of keeping a company alive.

Sometimes, I sit alone in my office, staring at my laptop screen, but my mind is elsewhere. Not thinking, just… lost. It’s a strange kind of exhaustion that words can’t describe.

The Illusion of Support

Yes, we have networking sessions. We meet other founders over coffee or teh tarik, exchange war stories, and laugh about our struggles. But deep inside, we all know that some things remain unspoken.

The real fears, the moments of doubt, the decisions we make in the dead of night that no one will ever hear about.

Sometimes, I sit in a room full of people, nodding and smiling, but my mind is stuck in a spiral of “What’s next?” Because while others can relax, I cannot. The company’s survival is my responsibility.

Investors don’t want to hear struggles; they want results. Employees need direction, not a leader who doubts. Customers wish to stability, not uncertainty.

So, where do founders turn to?

Breaking the Cycle of Isolation

Over time, I realized that dealing with loneliness as a founder is not about removing the burden but managing it better. Here’s what has helped me stay sane on this lonely journey:

1. Finding a Trusted Inner Circle

Not everyone will understand, but having one or two people who truly understand can make a difference. Whether it’s a mentor, a fellow entrepreneur, or a long-time friend who knows your journey, having someone to share raw, unfiltered thoughts with is crucial.

It was inspiring to meet founders who were a few steps ahead in their journey. They’ve been through what I’m facing now, and their insights are invaluable.

2. Practicing Strategic Detachment

A startup is like a baby—it needs care, attention, and sleepless nights. But over time, I learned to detach my self-worth from the company’s success or failure. It’s hard but necessary.

I remind myself that I am not my startup.

If FAVORIOT fails, it doesn’t mean I am a failure. And if it succeeds, I should not let it consume my identity entirely.

3. Scheduling Mind Breaks

Taking breaks doesn’t mean we don’t care. It means we’re making space for better decision-making. Some of my best ideas have come when I stepped away from my desk.

A short trip, an evening walk, even just sitting at a café without checking emails—these small breaks help reset my mind.

4. Writing as Therapy

I started writing down my thoughts, not for anyone else but myself. It’s like talking to a friend who doesn’t judge. It helps me process emotions, clear my head, and sometimes even discover solutions hidden in my words.

5. Embracing the Unknown

The truth is, no founder has it all figured out. Even the most successful entrepreneurs had moments of doubt. The difference is that they kept going despite the uncertainty.

Instead of fearing the unknown, I try to embrace it. Every problem is a puzzle, every challenge a lesson.

Final Thoughts: You Are Not Alone

To all the founders out there—know you are not alone if you feel lonely. I understand the silent battles you fight, the sleepless nights, the weight on your shoulders.

No easy fix exists, but you can make the journey less heavy. Find people who understand, step away when needed, and remind yourself that you are more than your startup.

And on those nights when your mind won’t stop racing, remember: This struggle is part of the journey. One day, you’ll look back and realize that these lonely, difficult, exhausting moments shaped you into the leader you were meant to be.

For now, take a deep breath.

The battle continues, but you are not alone.

The Story Behind Favoriot – Part 19: How the Law of Attraction Shapes Favoriot’s Future

The Imagination That Built Favoriot

Imagination is often dismissed as a whimsical exercise, yet it’s the spark that ignites progress. The world we live in today was once imagined by someone who dared to think beyond what was possible. Reflecting on Favoriot’s journey, I realize how important it is to dream about the future we want to create.

I believe in the Law of Attraction—the idea that what we think and visualize with intent can manifest into reality. When we first started Favoriot, we imagined a future where our platform would power smart cities, empower students, and become a global name in IoT. Some might have called it wishful thinking. But imagination, when combined with action and persistence, can shape reality.

Let me take you on a journey through an imagined future where Favoriot’s influence has transcended borders, industries, and expectations. This is not just a daydream. It’s a vision we are working tirelessly to turn into reality.

A Vision of Favoriot’s Future

I close my eyes and transport myself into the future. I enter a massive IoT trade exhibition akin to CES or the World Smart City Expo. The atmosphere is electric with innovation. Companies from around the world have gathered to showcase their latest technologies. As I navigate the exhibition hall, one thing becomes 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 AI-driven IoT applications are all seamlessly connected through Favoriot.

But why? Why did they choose Favoriot? It’s not just a platform. It has become the trusted backbone for innovation, synonymous with reliability and scalability. I feel an overwhelming sense of pride in seeing this unfold in real time. This is the world we imagined when we first built Favoriot: a world where our platform is the silent enabler of extraordinary solutions.

The Power of Favoriot in Education

My next stop in this imagined world is a university. Favoriot has become a standard name here—not just a tool but a core 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 peek into a lab where students are working on their final-year projects. A team is developing 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 and using Favoriot’s analytics features to visualize 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 internationally now teach IoT through Favoriot. Their 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 as skilled Favoriot-certified IoT professionals.

This didn’t happen by accident. It was imagined, desired, and, through our efforts, made a reality.

Transforming Cities with IoT

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 collection of disconnected systems—it’s an integrated platform that combines everything under one roof.

The mayor stands beside me, explaining how this has revolutionized 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.”

I imagined this 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 that local councils trust to aggregate and analyze IoT data, bridging the gap between diverse solutions and actionable insights.

Again, this was once a dream, an idea that many doubted. But here it is, functioning as imagined, because we believed in its possibility.

The Future of IoT Businesses

IoT product companies no longer struggle to create end-to-end solutions. Instead, they focus on what they do best—building world-class hardware or cutting-edge AI applications. Favoriot fills the gap by providing a robust platform to manage data collection and analysis.

Imagine a company specializing 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. Some have taken this even further by offering managed IoT services. With Favoriot, they provide their clients with dashboards, analytics, and customized 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 Through the Law of Attraction

The most exciting part of this imagined future is Favoriot’s global footprint. We have partnered with system integrators and distributors across continents, 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.

How did we reach this level? By first believing in it. The Law of Attraction teaches that whatever we focus on grows. We visualized this expansion, worked towards it, and attracted the right people and opportunities to make it happen.

A Dream Becoming Reality

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 tangible, from smart cities to healthcare and agriculture to education.

As I speak, I’m reminded of how far we’ve come—as a company and 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 envisioned 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.

The Story Behind Favoriot – Part 18: The Unspoken Truth About Startup Success

The Illusion of Overnight Success

Starting a business is exhilarating. There’s a rush of energy, an overwhelming sense of purpose, and a firm belief that what you’re building will change the world. When we launched FAVORIOT, that excitement fueled us. We poured countless hours into developing our product, refining its features, and dreaming of when it would hit the market and create a ripple effect.

I imagined a scenario where people would immediately recognize our innovation, show us praise, and, most importantly, place orders. It was a beautiful vision.

But reality had other plans.

The product launch was met with an eerie silence. There was no flood of inquiries, no immediate purchase orders—just a deafening void. It was as if we had shouted into an empty room, expecting applause but hearing only echoes of our voices.

I remember sitting in my office, staring at my phone, waiting for it to ring. Did we make the right decision? Was there even a market for what we had built? These questions haunted me. I had read about this phase before—the quiet period after launch where entrepreneurs either push through or give up.

For me, giving up was never an option.

The Harsh Reality: No One Cares Until You Make Them Care

Early on, the biggest lesson I learned was that having a great product isn’t enough. People needed to know about it. Marketing, which I had once seen as a secondary task, suddenly became our lifeline.

I had to shift my mindset from being just a product developer to becoming a marketer, a salesman, and sometimes even a storyteller. I repeatedly asked myself: How do we make people care?

We started reaching out, setting up demos, and pitching to potential clients. Slowly, the response trickled in. Companies showed interest. They asked for presentations. They nodded in agreement, smiled, and said, “This looks promising.”

But promises don’t pay the bills.

For a while, it felt like we were stuck in an endless loop of meetings that never turned into real business. Then came the first request for a quotation. I remember the excitement. Finally! This is it! I thought. We prepared the quotation, sent it over, and waited.

And waited.

Nothing happened.

I had assumed that a quotation would naturally lead to a purchase order. But in reality, sending a quote was just another step in a much longer process. It wasn’t a commitment—it was merely an indication of interest. And interest, I realized, didn’t always translate to action.

The First Purchase Order: A Moment of Validation

Then, one day, it happened. We received our first purchase order (PO).

I still remember the overwhelming sense of relief. It wasn’t just about the money. It was validation. Someone believed in what we had built enough to pay for it.

That moment changed everything. If one customer believed in us, surely more would follow. And they did—slowly but surely.

But business success isn’t just about making a sale. It’s about ensuring that sale turns into cash in your bank account. And that’s where another harsh reality set in.

Chasing Payments: The Least Glamorous Part of Business

You’d think that the hardest part is over once a client agrees to buy. That’s what I believed—until I had to chase down payments.

Sending invoices, following up, reminding, and sometimes even begging for payment became a routine. It was frustrating. We had delivered the product, and the clients were using it. So why were payments delayed?

I quickly learned that delayed payments are part of the business game. Cash flow is king; sometimes, even if you’re owed money, it doesn’t mean you’ll receive it on time.

The Trap of Empty Promises

In the early days, I was easily swayed by big promises. Potential clients would tell me, “This is exactly what we need! We can roll this out across multiple projects.”

It all sounded so promising. Some even asked for discounts or free Proof of Concept (PoC) trials, dangling the possibility of future large-scale deployments.

I wanted to believe them. But more often than not, those promises led nowhere.

Eventually, I learned a simple rule: No purchase order, no deal.

If someone truly values your product, they’ll invest in it. Otherwise, it’s just talk.

Beware of the Middlemen and Brokers

Another lesson came in the form of self-proclaimed “brokers.” These individuals claimed to have the right connections to land us big contracts. “Just trust us,” they would say. “We’ll make sure you get into the right hands.”

It was tempting. They spoke about million-dollar deals, high-profile clients, and game-changing opportunities. But over time, I realized that real business doesn’t work that way.

Genuine clients don’t need middlemen. They buy because they see value in your offer, not because someone else convinced them to.

Success is More Than Just Selling

Looking back, these experiences shaped me as an entrepreneur. Building a business isn’t just about creating a product—it’s about navigating relationships, earning trust, and filtering out distractions.

It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of what could be. But real success comes when you turn those possibilities into tangible results. And at the end of the day, the only thing that truly matters is this:

Do your customers see value in what you offer? And are they willing to pay for it?

That’s the accurate measure of success.

The Story Behind Favoriot – Part 17: How I Learned to Share Favoriot’s Story Without Overdoing It

The Fine Line Between Inspiration and Bragging

Should I share, or should I stay silent?

This question has haunted me since the early days of Favoriot.

Building a startup isn’t just about technology, funding, or business strategy—it’s also about storytelling. But where do we draw the line between sharing our journey to inspire others and coming across as boastful?

I’ve wrestled with this dilemma more times than I can count. Some people say, “Just let your work speak for itself.” Others insist, “People need to see your progress. They want to learn from your story.”

So, which one is it?

Let’s dive into the delicate balance of sharing our startup journey—without overdoing it.

The Early Days: A Team Fueled by Passion and Uncertainty

When we first started Favoriot, we were a small team with big dreams. We believed IoT had the power to change industries, improve lives, and create new opportunities.

But passion alone wasn’t enough.

We faced countless obstacles, including funding challenges, product-market fit struggles, and the ever-present fear of failure. We worked tirelessly behind the scenes, developing our platform and engaging with potential customers.

Then came the big question:

Should we share our struggles and milestones with the world or keep everything under wraps until we have something massive to announce?

I was torn.

“Maybe we should just stay quiet and let the results speak for themselves,” I thought. “What if we share too much, and it backfires?”

At the same time, I knew that people don’t just buy products—they buy into stories. They connect with a brand that feels human.

That’s when I realized the power of storytelling.

The Power of Storytelling in Startups

I’ve always believed that stories are what bring people together. They make businesses feel real, not just faceless corporations.

I started to ask myself:

“Wouldn’t sharing our small wins show others we’re genuine and making real progress?”

Momentum is everything in a startup. People want to know your journey—not just the polished version, but the raw and real struggles.

A few trusted advisors encouraged me:

“Mazlan, people want to see how a company grows. They want to learn from your experience, the ups and downs. Your story can inspire them.”

That made sense. After all, I’ve been inspired by others who openly shared their startup journeys. So why not do the same?

That was the moment I decided—we would share Favoriot’s story.

But little did I know that decision came with its own challenges.

The Doubts: Criticism and the Fear of Overexposure

The moment we started sharing our journey, the doubts crept in.

What if people thought we were just showing off?

What if our small wins were misinterpreted as arrogance?

I knew that no matter how genuine our intent was, some people would see it differently. Not everyone would cheer for our progress. Some might even root for us to fail.

That fear of inviting negativity was real.

A friend cautioned me, “Mazlan if you keep celebrating every little milestone, people might think you’re just making noise. Be careful.”

That struck a chord. I didn’t want Favoriot to be seen as all talk with no substance.

I had to find the right balance—sharing enough to inspire but not so much that it felt forced or unnecessary.

Finding the Right Balance: Authenticity Over Hype

I came to a realization:

It’s not about choosing between complete silence or constant broadcasting. The key is authenticity.

People can tell when a story is real. They can sense when you share because it’s meaningful, not because you want attention.

So, instead of treating every minor update as a big achievement, we focused on:

  1. Telling the whole story – Not just the victories but the challenges, failures, and lessons learned.
  2. Showing our human side – The sleepless nights, the difficult decisions, and the little moments that keep us going.
  3. Engaging, not boasting – Encouraging discussions rather than just making announcements.

The goal wasn’t to impress but to connect.

Emotion vs. Success Stories: Striking the Right Mix

So, how do we balance sharing emotions with business success?

I realized that while people love to hear about wins, they also appreciate honesty.

It wouldn’t be relatable if all we did was talk about how great we were doing. But if we only focused on struggles, it might seem like we were always in crisis mode.

We had to share both our progress and the hard lessons we were learning along the way.

A startup journey isn’t just about achievements. It’s about persistence, the small breakthroughs that lead to bigger ones, and the human experience behind the business.

Dealing with Criticism: Staying True to Our Mission

No matter how carefully we shared our story, there would always be critics.

Some would call it bragging. Others would question our decisions.

At first, this got to me. I second-guessed whether we should continue sharing at all.

But then I reminded myself:

Not everyone will root for you, and that’s okay.

The key is how you share. If you want to genuinely document your journey and help others, the right people will appreciate it.

It’s not about boasting—it’s about showing what it takes to build something from the ground up.

If someone sees that as bragging, that’s their perspective. But that shouldn’t stop us from telling our story.

Lessons Learned from Sharing the FAVORIOT Journey

Looking back, I’m glad we shared parts of our journey.

It helped us:

✅ Build a community that believes in our mission.
✅ Establish trust with partners and customers.
✅ Inspire other entrepreneurs who are going through the same struggles.

But we also learned to be mindful of how we share.

We don’t need to post every minor update. We don’t need to be overly polished. But we also don’t need to stay silent.

It’s all about balance—giving people a window into our world while staying true to our values.

The Importance of Authenticity in Business

At the end of the day, what matters most is staying authentic.

Favoriot isn’t just a company—we’re a team with a vision.

And that vision isn’t just about technology. It’s about building relationships, creating impact, and helping others understand the potential of IoT.

That’s why we continue sharing our story—not to show off but to invite others to share in our journey.

If there’s one lesson I’ve learned, it’s this:

People don’t connect with success. They connect with the story behind it.

And as long as we stay true to that, we’ll always have something meaningful to share.

Favoriot Entrepreneurship Stories

  1. The Story Behind Favoriot – Part 16: Why Favoriot Must Look Beyond Malaysia for Success
  2. The Story Behind Favoriot – Part 15: From Lecture Halls to Investor Pitches
  3. The Story Behind Favoriot – Part 14: To Exit or Not to Exit?
  4. The Story Behind Favoriot – Part 13: Does Winning Awards Help a Startup Succeed?
  5. The Story Behind Favoriot – Part 12: The Dream of M&A Exit
  6. The Story Behind Favoriot – Part 11: The Rocky Road of Smart Cities
  7. The Story Behind Favoriot — Part 10: Age Does Not Matter in Business
  8. The Story Behind Favoriot — Part 9: Leaving the Comfort Zone
  9. The Story Behind Favoriot – Part 8: The Frustration of Unanswered Emails and Missed Opportunities
  10. The Story Behind Favoriot – Part 7: The Task of Finding Favoriot’s First 10 Customers
  11. The Story Behind Favoriot – Part 6: Expanding The Business Models
  12. The Story Behind Favoriot – Part 5: Finding the Right Fit
  13. The Story Behind Favoriot – Part 4: How Favoriot Became More Than Just an IoT Platform
  14. The Story Behind Favoriot – Part 3: Why No One Wanted Our IoT Platform—And How We Turned It Around
  15. The Story Behind Favoriot – Part 2: Turning Failures into Milestones
  16. The Story Behind Favoriot – Part I: The Humble Beginnings of Favoriot