Tag: Startup

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

“You can call me IoT Man.”

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

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

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

The Spark That Ignited It All

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

But I took them seriously.

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

I wasn’t building the future I dreamed about.

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

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

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

Why the Name “IoT Man” Chose Me

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

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

Others started to notice.

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

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

And honestly?

It warmed my heart every single time.

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

Why It’s More Than Just a Nickname

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

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

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

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

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

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

The name “IoT Man” represents that spirit.

The Responsibility That Comes With It

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

And that’s not something I take lightly.

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

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

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

Legacy Over Popularity

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

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

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

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

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

Final Reflection: A Name, A Mission

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

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

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

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

Because that name is no longer just about me.

It belongs to the mission.

And the mission still burns bright.

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

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

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

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

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

Let me tell you why.

The Power to Influence Minds — Not Control, But Guide

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

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

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

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

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

The Leader Who Built Others to Lead

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

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

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

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

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

Living with Limitations, Thriving Despite Them

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

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

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

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

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

The Struggle Between Hope and Realism

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

Have I ever been Magneto? I ask myself.

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

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

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

The Legacy of a Teacher

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

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

Isn’t that what every teacher lives for?

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

Why Not Someone Else?

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

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

Charles Xavier did.

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

A Fictional Character with a Real-World Impact

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

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

Maybe even in me.

Final Thoughts from the Cerebro Room

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

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

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

To amplify the unheard and guide the uncertain.

That’s the Professor X I admire.

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

Not because he’s the most powerful.

But because he made others powerful.

Transform Your Day: The Power of Early Morning Habits

Every morning at 5:30 a.m., without fail, my eyes flutter open—not to an alarm, but to an internal clock that has been fine-tuned through decades of habit, discipline, and a desire to live each day intentionally.

“Let’s go. Time to wake the soul before the world does.”

That’s the first self-reminder that echoes in my mind.

As a 63-year-old who has gone through the different chapters of life—academia, government service, the corporate world, and now the startup scene with FAVORIOT—I’ve come to learn that how I start my morning sets the tone for everything that follows. You don’t command a smart city, build an IoT platform, or inspire others without conquering the first hour of your day.

5.30 AM: The Awakening

I rise from my bed with quiet intention. The world outside is still cloaked in darkness, and it’s in that serenity that I find my strength. The first thing I do is perform wudhu’ (ablution). It’s a spiritual reset button. A symbolic and literal cleansing — not just of the body, but of the mind and soul.

Then, I perform the Subuh prayers. These early morning prayers are more than just a ritual for me. They’re my grounding force.

“Ya Allah, guide me today to inspire, write, build, and serve.”

Some mornings, I sit in reflection a bit longer, especially when I feel the weight of a decision coming. Running a startup like FAVORIOT and juggling multiple commitments as an adjunct professor and speaker means my days can get chaotic. But those few moments after Subuh are sacred. They keep me anchored.

6.00 AM – 7.00 AM: My Creative Hour

The house is quiet. No distractions. No emails. No phone calls. Just me and my thoughts.

This is when I do something that surprises many people — I write.

Yes, every day, I try to write for at least an hour — whether it’s a blog article on mazlanabbas.com, an update on IoT for the FAVORIOT community, or even just scribbles for future social media posts.

Don’t get me wrong — there are days when I sit in front of the laptop and…

“Nothing. Not a single idea. Writer’s block? Again?”

On days like these, I don’t force it. Instead, I use Jetpack’s Prompts from WordPress. They’re like sparks that ignite the dormant corners of my mind. Sometimes, a simple question like, “What is one lesson you’ve learned the hard way?” leads me to unearth a memory from my early days at MIMOS or CELCOM or a lesson learned from building FAVORIOT with limited resources.

These prompts aren’t just writing cues. They’re invitations to reflect, connect, and document a life of learning and leadership.

6.45 AM: Engaging with My Digital Circle

Once the writing juices slow, I turn to my social media platforms, especially Facebook.

This might sound like the opposite of focus, but for me, it’s strategic. Over the years, I’ve built a strong and engaged community — professionals, students, fellow entrepreneurs, and tech enthusiasts. These aren’t just followers. They’re part of my extended family.

I check comments, reply to messages, and share new thoughts. Sometimes, I post a new blog entry, and sometimes, I respond to an interesting article someone tagged me in.

“Should I post this now? Or will it do better later?”

Sometimes, I overthink it. But more often than not, I remind myself — just share. Be real. Be consistent. It’s not about chasing likes. It’s about building trust and leaving digital footprints that matter.

Social media, for me, isn’t entertainment. It’s a way to educate, inspire, and connect. And it’s the perfect way to warm up before I switch into business mode.

7.00 AM Onwards: Preparing for the Day’s Battles

By this time, my mind is vigilant. I feel like I’ve already accomplished something — prayed, reflected, created, engaged.

Now it’s time to get ready for the workday.

Depending on the day, I might be:

  • Reviewing IoT platform updates with the tech team at FAVORIOT
  • Preparing slides for a keynote at an IoT or Smart Cities conference
  • Conducting an online training session via FAVORIOT Academy
  • Planning strategic calls with our global partners from the FAVORIOT Partner Network

Before I leave the house, I double-check my notebook (yes, I still use a physical one)—a habit from my CELCOM and MIMOS days. I jot down key priorities for the day—three things max.

“Mazlan, don’t try to do everything. Just do these three things really well.”

And with that, I’m ready.

Why My Morning Rituals Matter

Over the years, I’ve learned that rituals are more powerful than motivation. Motivation comes and goes, but habits—especially morning habits—are what carry us through uncertainty.

There was a time when my days were filled with back-to-back meetings, long commutes, and firefighting urgent issues. But even back then, I protected my mornings. That first hour is mine — no matter where I am.

It’s the hour when I’m not CEO Mazlan, Professor Mazlan, or even the guy people tag in IoT discussions. I’m just me—a man with thoughts, reflections, faith, and words to share.

My Advice to You?

Build your morning around what truly matters.

  • Maybe it’s prayer.
  • Maybe it’s writing.
  • Maybe it’s exercise, journaling, or reading.
  • Maybe it’s just sitting in silence with your coffee.

But own that hour. Make it yours. Protect it like your most valuable asset — because it is.

You don’t need a 15-step productivity routine. Just a small, consistent rhythm that aligns with your purpose.

For me? Subuh. Writing. Connecting.

That’s more than enough.

“Let’s begin the day. The world awaits. But I’ve already won the morning.”

What Makes a Person Truly Unique?

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

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

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

1. The Journey You Choose (or Endure)

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

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

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

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

2. How You React to Failure

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

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

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

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

3. Your Obsession

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

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

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

That’s the heartbeat of uniqueness.

4. The Way You Communicate

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

Why?

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

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

5. The Values You Don’t Compromise

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

“Is this aligned with what I believe?”

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

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

6. What You Do When No One’s Watching

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

“But no one reads your articles.”

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

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

And still—you show up.

7. How You Inspire Others

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

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

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

8. Your Curiosity and Lifelong Learning

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

“Why are you still experimenting?”

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

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

9. Your Ability to Connect Across Generations

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

Yes, and I love it.

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

10. How You Turn Passion Into Impact

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

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

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

A Personal Formula

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

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

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

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

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

“Mazlan, what makes you unique?”

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

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

What’s Something Most People Don’t Understand?

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

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

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

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

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

That’s what most people don’t understand.

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

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

Belief is underrated. And persistence—even more so.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

So here’s what I want you to remember:

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

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

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

And that’s enough.

Now, back to work. The journey continues.

The Secret Skill That Helped Me Build FAVORIOT

I have often been asked about my entrepreneurial journey—how I transitioned from corporate life to building FAVORIOT from scratch. People assume that technical knowledge and business acumen are the key ingredients, but there’s something else—something that I rarely talk about but has been my secret weapon all along.

What’s this secret skill?

Adaptability.

It’s not flashy, and people don’t usually admire adaptability in the same way they admire confidence or leadership. But let me tell you, adaptability is the difference between thriving and fading into obscurity.

The Shift from Corporate to Startup Life

When I left the structured corporate job environment to venture into entrepreneurship, I was stepping into unknown territory. For years, I had worked in environments where resources were plentiful, teams were in place, and projects had budgets and timelines that made sense.

Now, I had none of that.

I had to build everything from scratch. There was no IT team to help me set up emails, no HR to handle hiring, and no marketing department to promote the company.

I became all of those things overnight.

I had to learn to wear multiple hats and switch between them at a moment’s notice. One day, I was designing IoT solutions; the next, I negotiated with clients or handled company registration paperwork.

That’s when I realized—my ability to adapt was my biggest strength.

Learning to Navigate the Startup Chaos

Unlike corporate life, where things follow a set rhythm, startup life is unpredictable. Some days, I feel on top of the world because we closed a big deal. Other days, I wonder if FAVORIOT can survive another month.

This is where adaptability became crucial.

I had to quickly analyze problems, adjust my approach, and keep moving forward. Here are some of the ways adaptability helped me:

1. Pivoting When Necessary

I initially thought that smart city solutions would be FAVORIOT’s main market. But after months of trying to gain traction, I realized that local councils weren’t ready for IoT adoption at scale.

Should I have waited for the market to be ready?

No. I adapted.

I shifted my focus to IoT training and education—something universities and professionals were eager to explore. This move helped us generate revenue and positioned FAVORIOT as an authority in the IoT space.

If I had been rigid, FAVORIOT might not have survived.

2. Embracing Digital Marketing

Before starting FAVORIOT, I had never focused on social media marketing or personal branding. But as a startup founder, I quickly realized that visibility is everything.

I began writing blog posts, creating LinkedIn content, and engaging with the IoT community online. I even started making educational TikTok videos—something I would have never imagined doing in my corporate days.

Was it uncomfortable at first? Absolutely.

But again, adaptability helped me push through that discomfort and build a strong online presence that drives business to FAVORIOT.

3. Listening and Adjusting

I thought I knew what the market wanted, given my decades of experience in the industry. But the reality was different.

Many times, my assumptions were proven wrong.

Instead of resisting, I adapted by listening more—talking to customers, understanding their real problems, and refining our solutions. This ability to adjust based on feedback greatly impacted how we positioned our products and services.

4. Surviving Financial Uncertainty

Running a startup means facing financial ups and downs. There were months when revenue was strong and months when it felt like we were running on fumes.

In a corporate job, salaries are stable. In a startup, nothing is guaranteed.

I had to constantly adapt our financial strategy—cutting unnecessary costs, finding alternative revenue streams, and making tough decisions to keep the company afloat.

Adaptability is a Survival Skill

Looking back, I realize that adaptability is not just a skill; it’s a survival mechanism. In entrepreneurship, things will go wrong, plans will fail, and markets will shift.

But those who adapt don’t just survive—they thrive.

Many people get stuck because they expect success to come in a straight line. They refuse to change course even when things aren’t working, which is why so many businesses fail.

I have always believed in my vision for FAVORIOT but have never been too proud to adjust my approach when needed. That’s the secret skill that has kept me going.

Final Thoughts

People often ask me what skills are necessary to succeed in entrepreneurship. They expect me to say technical expertise, business knowledge, or leadership. But the truth is, adaptability is the real superpower.

The ability to embrace change, learn new things, and shift strategies when needed can make or break a startup.

If you’re on your own entrepreneurial journey, ask yourself—how adaptable are you?

In the world of business, it’s not the strongest who survive but those who can adapt the fastest.

The Hard Truth About IoT Startups: Lessons from My Failures

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

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

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

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

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

The First Failure: Overestimating Market Readiness

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

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

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

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

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

The Second Failure: Underestimating the Sales Process

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Third Failure: Learning Through Building Partnerships

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

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

That’s when I started building strategic partnerships.

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

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

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

What I Learned from These Failures

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

Here are the key lessons I took away:

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

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

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

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

Where We Are Today

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

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

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

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

The Brutal Reality of Building a Startup: Lessons They Never Taught Me

Oh, I was naive when I first embarked on this startup journey.

I still remember my optimism when we first started building our product. Everything seemed so clear in my mind. You develop a great product, set the pricing, launch it, and boom—customers will come pouring in. That was the textbook version of entrepreneurship, which we often hear in business courses and training programs.

But reality? Oh boy, reality had other plans for me.

The First Wake-Up Call: A Consumer App That Nobody Knew Existed

One of our earliest ventures was developing a mobile app for consumers. We were convinced that if the app solved a problem and had great features, people would naturally download and use it.

We built the app, polished the user experience, ensured it looked sleek, and confidently launched it. Now, all we had to do was sit back and watch the downloads roll in.

Except… nothing happened.

The download numbers barely moved. We thought maybe people just hadn’t heard about it yet. So we started creating social media content—posters, videos, articles, anything to spread the word. We poured time, effort, and energy into marketing.

And still, the numbers trickled in at an agonizingly slow pace.

I remember checking the app analytics daily, hoping to see a download spike. Maybe today will be the day we go viral. But day after day, reality set in—people weren’t discovering our app. The noise of the digital world was too loud, and we were just another tiny voice trying to be heard.

Marketing a consumer app wasn’t just about putting up a few ads or making several social media posts. It required massive effort, an actual marketing budget, partnerships, influencers, and an entire strategy to break through the clutter.

Eventually, after months of trying, we made the painful decision to scrap the product. The lesson?

A great product means nothing if nobody knows about it.

Entering Enterprise Sales: A Whole New Set of Challenges

After that experience, we pivoted towards enterprise sales, thinking this might be different. If we could demonstrate tangible business value, surely companies would see the benefits and sign up.

But once again, reality was waiting with another lesson.

Unlike consumer apps, enterprise sales meant endless pitching, presenting, and convincing stakeholders. It wasn’t just about impressing one person—we had to convince entire teams, procurement departments, and decision-makers with agendas, budgets, and timelines.

Some clients were polite, nodding along and saying they were interested. Then they disappeared.

Some asked for proposals but took months—sometimes years—to give honest feedback.

Some liked the product, but their procurement process was a bureaucratic nightmare.

And then some would ask for trials, dragging us through weeks of testing and onboarding, only to do nothing with it afterward.

I still remember sending hundreds of quotations, hoping for even a fraction of them to convert into actual purchase orders. It was exhausting.

When we did manage to close deals, there was another harsh reality—getting paid. Some clients paid promptly, but many took their sweet time. Some stretched payments for months, and in the meantime, our cash flow suffered.

And let’s not forget those who squeezed us for the lowest possible price, negotiating so aggressively that by the time we signed the deal, there was barely any profit left.

Every stage was a battle—from selling to closing, to delivering, to getting paid.

The Reality They Never Taught in Business School

Looking back, I laugh at how naive I was in those early days.

None of this was covered in any entrepreneurship course or training program, and nobody warned me about the sheer emotional and financial toll of running a startup.

I had to learn it the hard way:

  • Customers don’t just appear—you must fight for every single one.
  • Enterprise sales require patience, persistence, and a thick skin.
  • Getting paid is its own separate challenge. Cash flow can kill a business faster than a lack of customers.
  • Many people will show interest, but only a tiny percentage will commit.
  • The market doesn’t care how hard you worked—only the value you deliver and how well you convince them.

Despite all of this, despite the struggles and setbacks, I wouldn’t trade this journey for anything. Every lesson, rejection, and challenge has made me a stronger entrepreneur.

Would I have started my startup knowing all this from the beginning?

Probably.

But I would have been a lot more prepared for the battle ahead.

How’s that for capturing your journey? It’s raw, honest, and full of the hard truths no textbook teaches! Let me know if you want any refinements.

Why I See Myself as an Eagle: Vision, Resilience, and Soaring Above Challenges

If I had to compare myself to an animal, I would say I am like an eagle—soaring high, always looking ahead, and never losing sight of my vision.

I’ve always admired the eagle’s sharp focus, resilience, and ability to fly above storms. It doesn’t get distracted by the noise below; it rides the wind, using even strong currents to propel itself higher. That’s how I see my journey—whether in IoT, entrepreneurship, or writing.

But let me take a step back.

“Mazlan, why not a lion? Aren’t lions supposed to be the king of the jungle?”

That thought did cross my mind. The lion is strong, fearless, and commands respect. But a lion operates within a pack, a pride. It leads, yes, but it is also bound by its territory. I’ve always felt more like an eagle—independent, strategic, and always searching for new horizons.

The Eagle’s Vision

Eagles can spot a rabbit from miles away. I strive for that kind of clarity in everything I do—whether it’s running FAVORIOT, mentoring startups, or sharing my thoughts on IoT and smart cities. The ability to anticipate trends, recognize opportunities, and act swiftly is critical in the fast-moving tech world.

I remember when IoT was still a buzzword in Malaysia. Many doubted its potential. But I saw what was coming. I knew IoT would transform industries, and I wanted to be at the forefront. Like an eagle scouting the landscape, I positioned myself early—writing, speaking, and building an ecosystem before many even realized its impact.

Rising Above the Storm

One of my favorite things about eagles is how they react to storms. Instead of seeking shelter, they spread their wings and let the wind lift them higher.

Entrepreneurship is full of storms—failed pitches, slow adoption, and financial struggles. There were days when I questioned if building FAVORIOT was the right decision. “Maybe I should have stayed in a corporate job, enjoyed stability.” But then, I’d remind myself—eagles don’t retreat. They rise. They adapt. They push forward.

When COVID-19 hit, many businesses struggled. We could have paused and waited for things to settle. Instead, we pivoted—offering online IoT training, expanding our platform’s capabilities, and forging new partnerships. We didn’t just survive; we found new ways to thrive.

Independence & Leadership

Unlike birds that fly in flocks, eagles often soar alone. They don’t wait for permission; they take the lead.

That’s something I relate to deeply. I’ve had to make difficult decisions throughout my career—leaving a stable job, starting a company, challenging industry norms. I’ve never been one to follow the crowd. If I see a better way, I take it, even if it means flying solo for a while.

The Lesson of the Eagle

Eagles don’t just fly; they inspire. Through my work, my writing, and my mentorship, I hope to inspire others to see beyond immediate obstacles, think long-term, and rise above challenges.

So, if I were an animal, I’d be an eagle—sharp, relentless, and always looking for the next great opportunity in the vast sky of possibilities.

And if you had to choose, which animal are you?