Tag: Technology

Who Will Lead the AI Race? Alibaba, DeepSeek, or OpenAI?

For years, the AI industry was dominated by Western tech giants like OpenAI, Google, and Microsoft. If you wanted access to the most powerful AI models, you either had to pay a premium or rely on whatever limited open-source alternatives were available. But in the past year, China has emerged as a serious contender, with Alibaba’s Qwen 2.5-Max and DeepSeek’s AI models challenging OpenAI’s dominance.

With three major players now in the spotlight—OpenAI, Alibaba, and DeepSeek—the big question is: Who will have the biggest impact?

Alibaba’s Qwen 2.5-Max: The Biggest Game-Changer?

1. Open-Source Availability: AI for Everyone, Not Just Big Tech

Unlike OpenAI and DeepSeek, which still maintain some level of exclusivity, Alibaba has taken a bold approach—releasing over 100 models from the Qwen 2.5 family as open-source.

This move is significant because:

  • It allows smaller businesses, researchers, and developers to build AI-powered applications without massive budgets
  • It accelerates global AI innovation, reducing reliance on Western AI monopolies
  • It levels the playing field, as anyone can access and customize Qwen’s models

Meanwhile, OpenAI’s GPT-4 and GPT-4o remain closed-source, limiting their accessibility. DeepSeek has released open-source models, but their reach is still largely within China and research communities.

If Alibaba continues to expand its open-source offerings, it could fundamentally shift the AI industry, much like how Linux transformed software development.

2. Performance vs. Cost: Who’s Winning the AI Benchmark Battle?

Performance benchmarks suggest that Qwen 2.5-Max is outperforming both DeepSeek-V3 and OpenAI’s GPT-4 in various AI tasks—from handling complex queries to multilingual processing.

But cost-effectiveness matters just as much as raw power. DeepSeek’s AI models are designed to be highly efficient, making them cheaper to run. This could attract businesses looking for powerful AI solutions without excessive computational costs.

OpenAI remains the leader in brand recognition and market presence, but its pricing model remains a concern for many. If Alibaba or DeepSeek can offer similar capabilities at a lower price point, OpenAI may need to rethink its strategy.

3. Multilingual AI: Qwen 2.5-Max Breaks Language Barriers

Most AI models are English-centric, which limits accessibility for non-English speakers.

  • Qwen 2.5-Max supports 29 languages, making it one of the most globally accessible AI models.
  • DeepSeek’s reach outside China is still uncertain, though it has strong backing domestically.
  • OpenAI’s ChatGPT is still largely optimized for English, with limited performance improvements in non-English languages.

For businesses and governments in Asia, Africa, and Latin America, Alibaba’s multilingual AI could be a game-changer. The more localized an AI model is, the more valuable it becomes for regional markets.

4. Enterprise Adoption: Who’s Getting Integrated Faster?

It’s one thing to build a powerful AI model—it’s another thing to get real businesses to use it.

Alibaba’s Qwen AI models are already being adopted in industries like:

  • Automotive (for AI-powered driving assistants)
  • Banking (for financial analysis and chatbots)
  • Retail (for customer service and product recommendations)

DeepSeek, while innovative, lacks major enterprise partnerships outside research institutions. Meanwhile, OpenAI’s models are widely used in Western markets, but its expansion into Asia and emerging economies remains slower compared to Alibaba.

If Alibaba can secure more industry adoption, it could become the go-to AI provider in non-Western markets.

5. Competitive Pressure on OpenAI: A Wake-Up Call?

For the longest time, OpenAI had no real competition. But with Qwen and DeepSeek gaining traction, the AI race has become a lot more unpredictable.

  • OpenAI is now rushing to release GPT-4.5 or “O3” sooner than expected, likely in response to competition.
  • If OpenAI doesn’t adjust its pricing, accessibility, or model capabilities, it risks losing users to cheaper and more open alternatives.

This is a critical moment for OpenAI—does it continue with a closed, premium AI model, or does it shift towards more affordability and openness?

Final Verdict: Who Will Have the Biggest Impact?

Biggest Short-Term Impact → Alibaba’s Qwen 2.5-Max

Why? Open-source availability, multilingual AI, and real enterprise adoption make it the most widely accessible AI model right now.

Biggest Long-Term Disruptor → DeepSeek

Why? Its cost-effective, research-driven approach makes it a dark horse in this race. If it expands globally, it could seriously challenge OpenAI and Alibaba.

Most Stable Market Leader → OpenAI

Why? It still holds the largest brand recognition, but will need to adapt quickly to remain competitive in a rapidly evolving AI landscape.

What’s Next?

  • Will OpenAI lower its pricing to compete with Alibaba and DeepSeek?
  • Can DeepSeek expand beyond China and into global markets?
  • Will Alibaba continue its open-source strategy, or will it tighten access in the future?

No matter what happens, one thing is clear: The AI market is no longer dominated by just one company. And that’s good news for everyone.

The Story Behind Favoriot – Part 4: How Favoriot Became More Than Just an IoT Platform

I never planned for Favoriot to be more than just an internal tool.

Back when we first started developing the platform, it was purely out of necessity. We weren’t thinking about commercializing it. We just needed a reliable way to manage IoT data, and the existing platforms? They just didn’t cut it. Too rigid, too limited, and definitely not built with our specific needs in mind.

So, we decided to build our own.

I still remember that moment vividly—one of those late-night discussions with my team, fueled by frustration and too much coffee.

“Why are we wasting time forcing a square peg into a round hole?” I said. “Let’s just create something that actually works for us.”

And just like that, Favoriot was born.

At first, it was just for us—a solution to our own headaches. We never imagined it would one day be used by universities, students, or businesses. That wasn’t even on our radar. But then, something kept bothering me.

The Eye-Opener: Why Are We Using Foreign Platforms?

Every time I gave an IoT lecture at a university, I saw the same thing. Students were using foreign platforms like ThingSpeak and Blynk.

At first, I brushed it off. But then, it hit me—why were we relying so much on platforms from outside Malaysia? Didn’t we have something just as good, if not better?

That thought gnawed at me for weeks.

“We have this amazing platform,” I told my team. “Why aren’t we making it available to students and researchers here?”

The more I thought about it, the more sense it made. If we could offer Favoriot as a local alternative, students wouldn’t have to rely on foreign tools. So, I started introducing it in my lectures, offering free access to encourage students to use it in their projects.

I was optimistic. Maybe a little too optimistic.

The Harsh Reality: No One Was Interested

Despite our efforts, students weren’t biting. They continued using ThingSpeak and Blynk. I couldn’t figure it out.

“What are we doing wrong?” I asked myself.

Then it hit me—content.

Those platforms had an overwhelming amount of learning resources. Tutorials, YouTube videos, step-by-step guides. Everything a beginner needed was right at their fingertips.

Favoriot? Not so much.

It wasn’t that students didn’t want to use our platform; they just didn’t know how. Without accessible tutorials, they naturally gravitated toward platforms with a smoother learning curve.

That realization stung.

Taking Matters Into My Own Hands

At first, I thought, Maybe I can get students to create tutorial videos.

Wrong.

Most weren’t comfortable putting themselves out there as content creators. And honestly, I understood. It’s not easy to create educational content, especially when you’re just starting.

So, I made a decision.

“If no one else is going to do it, then I will.”

We started producing our own YouTube tutorials, pushing Favoriot on TikTok, and making the platform more accessible. It wasn’t easy, and it took time, but I knew it was the only way forward.

At first, progress was slow.

I had my doubts.

Is this even worth it? Are we just shouting into the void?

But I held on. If I’ve learned anything from this journey, it’s that persistence pays off.

The Turning Point: From Struggle to Recognition

Bit by bit, Favoriot started gaining traction. More students began using it, and word started to spread. But the real breakthrough? That came when external organizations started noticing us.

Suddenly, Favoriot wasn’t just an educational tool—it was being used in agriculture, industry, smart cities, and security systems.

I remember watching it all unfold, feeling both humbled and proud.

“Alhamdulillah,” I whispered. But deep down, I knew—this was just the beginning.

We didn’t stop there. We worked on differentiating Favoriot, adding unique features that platforms like ThingSpeak and Blynk didn’t offer. We weren’t just another IoT platform anymore. We were a better IoT platform.

What’s Next?

The journey hasn’t been easy. We’ve faced rejection, setbacks, and moments of self-doubt. But every challenge has taught us something valuable.

And this story? It’s far from over.

In Part 5, I’ll dive deeper into the specific challenges we faced, the roadblocks we overcame, and the key moments that shaped Favoriot into what it is today.

The best is yet to come.

More Stories About Entrepreneurship

  1. The Story Behind Favoriot – Part 6: Expanding The Business Models
  2. The Story Behind Favoriot – Part 5: Finding the Right Fit
  3. The Story Behind Favoriot – Part 4: How Favoriot Became More Than Just an IoT Platform
  4. The Story Behind Favoriot – Part 3: Why No One Wanted Our IoT Platform—And How We Turned It Around
  5. The Story Behind Favoriot – Part 2: Turning Failures into Milestones
  6. The Story Behind Favoriot – Part I: The Humble Beginnings of Favoriot
  7. Building My Personal Brand: The Stepping Stone to Favoriot’s Success
  8. From Research Lab Critiques to Startup Pitches: My Slide Story
  9. The Illusion of RFPs in the IoT World: Managing Expectations as a Startup
  10. Favoriot’s Odyssey: Navigating the Rough Waters of Early Revenue

ChatGPT, CoPilot, Gemini, Grok, Perplexity, Claude & DeepSeek: Which One Should You Choose?

Here’s a breakdown of the main features to help you decide which AI tool suits your needs:

1️⃣ ChatGPT (OpenAI)

✅ Versatile and reliable: Perfect for writing tasks, explaining technical concepts, and generating or debugging code.

✅ Supports multiple languages: Works well even in non-English languages, including Malay.

✅ Developer-friendly: Offers a stable API, making it ideal for building applications with AI capabilities.

❌ Paid plans for heavy use: A subscription is required to unlock more advanced features or handle large-scale tasks.

2️⃣ Gemini (Google, formerly Bard)

✅ Live search integration: It’s directly connected to Google Search, making it great for delivering the most up-to-date information.

✅ Fact-focused: Excels at answering general knowledge questions and providing factual details.

❌ Context sensitivity can be inconsistent: Sometimes, struggles to grasp complex or nuanced questions fully.

3️⃣ CoPilot (Microsoft, powered by GPT-4 Turbo)

✅ Productivity-focused: Fully integrated with Microsoft Office tools like Word and Excel, making it a powerful assistant for work-related tasks.

✅ Seamless Windows integration: An excellent choice for Windows users who need AI within their workflow.

❌ Access requirements: You’ll need a Microsoft account; in some cases, access may be restricted to specific users or organisations.

4️⃣ Grok (X, by Elon Musk)

✅ Social media-savvy: Specially designed for users of X (formerly Twitter), offering features to analyse and follow social media trends.

✅ Trend-aware: Focuses on staying current with the latest online conversations.

❌ Still evolving: As a relatively new tool, it lacks the maturity and extensive testing of more established platforms.

5️⃣ DeepSeek AI

✅ Specialist in technical fields: Excellent for research, coding, and solving complex mathematical problems.

✅ Completely free: A budget-friendly option for students, researchers, or anyone exploring technical AI applications.

❌ Limited advanced features: Compared to tools like ChatGPT or Gemini, it doesn’t offer comprehensive capabilities or integrations yet.

6️⃣ Perplexity AI

✅ Great for fact-checking: It can reference the internet in real-time, making it highly effective for quick research or verifying information.

✅ Focused research tool: Handy for researching specific topics and finding credible sources.

❌ Can lack deeper understanding: Tends to compile data rather than analyse or interpret it meaningfully.

7️⃣ Claude (Anthropic)

✅ Contextually intelligent: Known for its ability to generate high-quality text and clearly understand the context in conversations.

✅ Safe and ethical: Less prone to producing harmful, biased, or inaccurate content, making it a reliable option.

❌ Less recognition locally: Not as widely known or used in Malaysia, though its features are robust and competitive.

How to Choose the Right AI for Your Needs

  •  For writing, coding, or creative projects, → Go for ChatGPT or Claude for their depth and versatility.
  •  If you need real-time information or up-to-date research, → Consider Gemini or Perplexity.
  •  To boost productivity at work with office tools, → Use CoPilot, which works seamlessly with Microsoft applications.
  •  Social media enthusiasts → Try Grok, designed to help navigate trends on X (Twitter).
  •  For technical problem-solving or coding on a budget, → Choose DeepSeek AI.

Each tool has unique strengths, so the choice depends on your specific use case and preferences.

Why Building AI and IoT Products Locally Can Save a Country

The appearance of DeepSeek, which shook the world, taught us an important lesson — technology sovereignty.

Have you ever wondered why some countries have more control over their technology and future? It’s not magic.

They’ve invested time and effort in developing their technologies, especially in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT).

These two areas are no longer just fancy buzzwords – they are the backbone of modern nations.

Let me explain why building these technologies locally is essential and could be a real game-changer for any country.

Keeping Our Data Safe

Think about how much data is collected daily – from your smartwatches, smartphones, traffic cameras, and building sensors. All of this data tells a story about us, about our country.

If this data goes to foreign companies, they control it, not us. That’s scary, right?

When we build AI and IoT products locally, we keep our data within our borders. We don’t have to rely on someone else to store or protect it.

This means we reduce the chances of our information falling into the wrong hands. It’s like having your valuables locked in your safe rather than someone else’s.

Protecting Our Security

Imagine if someone could hack into your country’s power grid or water supply.

What happens then? Chaos.

That’s why it’s essential to have secure technologies. When we depend on foreign-made systems, we give our critical infrastructure to them.

Local AI and IoT solutions can protect public transportation, hospitals, and defence systems. It’s like building a strong fortress – we control who gets in and out.

Creating Jobs and Boosting the Economy

Here’s the fun part – when we make our own AI and IoT products, we create jobs.

Think about all the engineers, researchers, factory workers, and even marketers involved in these projects.

Big companies like Google invest billions in countries like Malaysia to help build these technologies locally.

Google’s recent investment is expected to create over 26,000 jobs in Malaysia alone. Imagine what we can do if we take the lead ourselves!

Making Technology That Fits Us

Sometimes imported technology doesn’t work well for us because it wasn’t designed with our needs in mind.

For example, an IoT system designed for a cold country might not work perfectly in Malaysia’s tropical climate, or an AI chatbot might not understand our local languages or culture.

When we create our products, we can ensure they are right for us. We can design innovative farming tools for our crops, smart city systems for our traffic, and AI systems that understand Malay and other local languages.

Staying Strong During Global Tensions

Let’s be honest – the world is full of political tensions. Trade wars and sanctions can disrupt access to foreign technologies. I

f we rely too much on others, what happens when they suddenly pull the plug?

By building our own AI and IoT, we ensure that our systems continue running no matter what happens in the rest of the world. It’s like growing your food instead of relying on someone else’s farm.

Saving Money in the Long Run

When we use foreign technologies, we often have to pay licensing fees or deal with high costs.

Local solutions cut out the middleman, making things cheaper for businesses and citizens.

Plus, the money stays in the country, helping our economy grow further.

Empowering Our People

One of the most inspiring parts of building local technologies is how they empower our people. It gives our youth opportunities to work on cutting-edge projects without having to leave the country.

It also encourages entrepreneurship, where anyone with a good idea can start their own business.

We’ve seen how tech-savvy countries like China and India are building their systems and becoming global leaders.

Why can’t we do the same? We have the talent; we need the vision and support.

Keeping Control Over Our Culture

AI and IoT shape how we live, work, and even think. If these technologies come from other countries, they might not reflect our values and culture.

Building our systems means ensuring they align with what’s important to us as a nation.

For example, we can develop AI systems that promote our local heritage, preserve our languages, and respect our cultural norms.

It’s about staying true to who we are while moving forward.

A Future We Control

Building AI and IoT products locally is about one thing – control. It’s about taking charge of our future rather than leaving it in someone else’s hands. It’s about ensuring that our technology serves us and not vice versa.

Countries like Malaysia are already taking steps in this direction with investments in AI parks and national AI offices. But this is just the beginning. With the right mindset, resources, and determination, we can become leaders in this space.

So, the next time someone asks why local AI and IoT matter, remember – it’s not just about technology.

It’s about independence, security, and building a future we can be proud of.

Why IoT and AI Are the Backbone of a Nation’s Technological Sovereignty

I often wonder what truly defines a nation’s strength in today’s digital world. Is it the size of its economy, its military prowess, or the natural resources it possesses? While all these play a role, I believe that a country’s real power lies in its ability to control and innovate its own technology. At the heart of this technological sovereignty are two game-changing forces: the Internet of Things (IoT) and Artificial Intelligence (AI).

We are entering an era where data is the new oil and intelligence is the new currency. Nations that fail to embrace AI and IoT risk becoming mere consumers rather than leaders in the global tech race. The question is: Will we take charge of our technological destiny, or will we remain dependent on foreign players for our critical infrastructure? Let’s explore why IoT and AI are not just smart devices and automation but also securing our future.

1. The Battle for Data Control and National Security

Technology is no longer just about convenience; it’s about sovereignty. The more we rely on foreign AI models and IoT infrastructures, the more we expose our data, businesses, and government operations to external threats.

Owning Our Data: The First Step to Sovereignty

I’ve always believed that data is a nation’s most valuable resource. Just like oil fueled the Industrial Revolution, data is fueling the digital revolution. But imagine if a country had to depend on foreign companies to extract, refine, and distribute its oil. It would be at the mercy of external forces. The same applies to data.

With AI and IoT, we can take charge of our data. Local data centres, secure cloud computing infrastructures, and homegrown AI models ensure that our national data stays within our borders and is protected from cyber threats and foreign surveillance.

Preventing Foreign Surveillance and Cyber Threats

Cybersecurity threats are real. We risk exposing sensitive information to external parties whenever we use a foreign AI-powered application or cloud-based IoT system. Governments, businesses, and even individuals can become targets of cyber espionage. Malaysia’s Cyber Security Act 2024 is a step in the right direction, ensuring our digital assets remain protected. But laws alone are insufficient—we need the technological infrastructure to support these policies.

Investing in sovereign AI and IoT solutions ensures that our government, military, and critical industries are shielded from external interference.

2. Economic Growth and Global Competitiveness

Technological sovereignty is not just about security—it’s about economic independence. The nations that control their AI and IoT ecosystems will shape the future of global industries.

Job Creation and Economic Empowerment

One of the most inspiring developments in Malaysia has been the influx of tech investments to build local AI and IoT capabilities. Companies like Google and Oracle are pumping billions into Malaysia’s digital economy. Google’s $2 billion investment in a new cloud and AI region will create over 26,500 jobs and contribute $3.2 billion to the country’s GDP by 2030. On the other hand, Oracle is investing $6.5 billion to establish its cloud region in Malaysia.

These aren’t just numbers. They represent real opportunities—high-paying jobs for our youth, local innovation hubs, and a digital economy that doesn’t rely on foreign tech dominance.

Building Our Own Technology Ecosystem

Relying on foreign technologies means giving control of our economic future to external entities. But when we develop our AI-powered IoT systems, we create an ecosystem that is resilient, self-sustaining, and globally competitive.

Take the example of Malaysia’s AI Park—a $1 billion investment by India’s Eros Investments. It’s not just about developing AI models; it’s about setting up an entire industry that will support local entrepreneurs, researchers, and businesses in the AI and IoT space.

3. AI-Driven National Decision-Making

AI isn’t just about robots and automation—it’s about making intelligent decisions at a national level. From predicting economic trends to managing city infrastructures, AI allows governments to plan with precision.

Smart Governance and Public Services

Imagine a government where AI can predict and manage traffic congestion, optimize public transport, and even analyze healthcare trends to prevent disease outbreaks before they happen. With IoT sensors collecting real-time data and AI models processing it, governments can make data-driven, efficient, and responsive policies.

Malaysia’s National AI Office is a significant step in this direction. By creating an AI-first policy framework, we are moving towards an intelligent, proactive, and future-ready governance model.

4. Strategic Autonomy in Emerging Technologies

AI and IoT in Smart Cities and Agriculture

One of the most exciting applications of IoT and AI is in smart cities and agriculture. A self-reliant nation must feed itself, sustain itself, and protect itself. IoT-driven precision farming can help Malaysia ensure food security by monitoring soil quality, automating irrigation, and predicting weather patterns to maximize crop yields.

Smart city projects powered by AI can reduce energy consumption, improve waste management, and even prevent crime through intelligent surveillance systems. The less we depend on foreign companies to build these infrastructures, the more control we have over our cities and resources.

5. Resilience Against Geopolitical Risks

Avoiding Foreign Tech Restrictions

What happens when a country suddenly loses access to a critical technology because of geopolitical tensions? We’ve seen how trade restrictions can cripple industries overnight. Countries that are overly dependent on foreign technologies risk sudden disruptions in essential services and infrastructure.

Take AI chips, for example. The US-China tech war has shown us how a simple export restriction can paralyze entire industries. If Malaysia or any other country wants to future-proof its technological capabilities, it must invest in developing its own AI chips, cloud services, and IoT ecosystems.

A Self-Reliant Digital Economy

A nation’s strength is measured by its ability to stand independently. AI and IoT empower countries to build a self-reliant digital economy not easily shaken by external forces. By controlling our own cloud platforms, AI models, and IoT networks, we reduce our vulnerability to external trade wars and policy shifts.

Final Thoughts: The Road to True Digital Independence

The future belongs to those who control their own technology. AI and IoT are not just tools but the foundation of a nation’s economic, security, and governance infrastructure.

If Malaysia continues on this path—investing in local AI research, securing its IoT infrastructure, and building sovereign digital policies—we will not only compete in the global tech race but also lead it.

We are at a crossroads. Should we take charge of our future or allow others to dictate our technological destiny? The choice is ours.

Top AI Tools for 2025: Boosting Efficiency Across Various Domains

AI tools have become essential to personal and professional workflows, helping automate tasks, enhance creativity, and improve productivity. Here’s a breakdown of some of the most valuable AI tools for 2025 across different categories and why they matter:

[Credit to Pradeep]

1. YouTube Tools

Tools like Steve AI, TubeBuddy, and Eighthify assist content creators with video editing, optimisation, and analytics. These are crucial for streamlining content production and boosting audience engagement on YouTube.

2. Sales Tools

Platforms such as Lavendar, Twain, and Simplified make sales outreach more personalised and efficient. They provide insights and automation to close deals faster and enhance customer relationships.

3. Productivity Tools

Apps like Bardeen AI, ChartGPT, and Scholarly help manage tasks, conduct research, and increase overall efficiency. These tools are essential for individuals juggling multiple responsibilities.

4. Music Tools

AI tools like Amper, Jukedeck, and Boomy enable music creation and editing, making them valuable for artists, content creators, and marketers looking for custom soundtracks.

5. Writing Tools

Jasper AI, Writesonic, and Quillbot simplify content creation with grammar corrections, paraphrasing, and idea generation, making them indispensable for writers and bloggers.

6. Coding Tools

Platforms such as GitHub Copilot, Deepcode, and Replit help developers write and debug code efficiently. These tools save time and improve code quality for software engineers.

7. Chatbot Tools

Tools like Cohere, Yatterplus, and GPTBuddy enable businesses to create intelligent chatbots for improved customer service and engagement.

8. Daily Life Tools

Apps like Notion AI and Taskade simplify task management and daily organisation, helping individuals stay on top of their schedules and projects.

9. Content Creation Tools

Tools like Tome AI and Beautiful AI aid in creating visually appealing presentations and multimedia content, which is crucial for marketing and storytelling.

10. Twitter Tools

Platforms such as Postwise, Tweet Hunter, and TribeScaler are designed to optimise Twitter engagement, making them perfect for influencers and marketers.

11. Image Tools

Tools like StockIMG, MidJourney, and Microsoft Designer offer quick and creative solutions for generating and editing images, perfect for designers and marketers.

12. Chrome Extensions

Extensions, like Compose AI, Voila AI, and FinalScout, add functionalities like email drafting and lead generation, directly improving browser productivity.

Why These Tools Matter

AI tools transform our work by automating repetitive tasks, offering creative assistance, and optimising productivity. Whether you’re a content creator, developer, or entrepreneur, integrating these tools into your workflow can save time, enhance quality, and give you a competitive edge.

These tools showcase how AI continues to bridge the gap between manual effort and technological innovation, making 2025 a promising year for leveraging AI-driven solutions.

DeepSeek vs NVDIA: How China Build Their AI Sovereignty

The recent developments in the global technology landscape highlight a pressing need for countries and organisations to rethink their dependency on external technologies. NVIDIA’s staggering loss of $432 billion in market value in just a single day, driven by the rise of the Chinese AI startup DeepSeek, serves as a cautionary tale. DeepSeek’s disruptive advancements have shaken the foundations of major American tech companies and caused ripples across the global market, wiping out over $2 trillion in value.

But what does this mean for us as a society? These events are not just numbers—they are lessons that underline the importance of building our own technology capabilities.

The Reality of Dependency

When nations or industries heavily rely on external technologies, they place themselves vulnerable. The case of NVIDIA illustrates how a single external factor—a competitor with disruptive innovations—can lead to catastrophic consequences.

DeepSeek’s ability to replicate advanced AI technologies like ChatGPT with just a fraction of the cost and resources is a prime example of what can happen when a new player enters the game.

The dominance of companies like OpenAI, which spends over $100 million to train an AI model, has been disrupted by DeepSeek’s efficient model, built for just $6 million.

This highlights a glaring issue: while reliance on established tech giants may seem convenient, it can be detrimental in the long term if alternatives arise or access is restricted.

The Geopolitical Factor

Geopolitics often plays a significant role in accessing technology. Restrictions, sanctions, and bans are too common in the tech industry as countries compete to maintain dominance.

Relying solely on foreign technology means being at the mercy of these geopolitical dynamics. A single ban can halt progress, cripple industries, and leave entire sectors scrambling for alternatives.

The Lesson from DeepSeek

DeepSeek’s rise is an excellent example of how investing in local talent and resources can lead to groundbreaking achievements. By developing their technology independently, they have challenged global leaders and shown the world that innovation does not require exorbitant budgets.

This should inspire others to invest in homegrown talent and create ecosystems that encourage innovation.

The Role of Governments and Businesses

To avoid over-reliance on external technologies, governments and businesses must:

  1. Invest in R&D: Encourage research and development in cutting-edge technologies, providing grants and incentives to innovators.
  2. Build Talent Pipelines: Develop educational programmes focusing on future technologies like AI, IoT, and robotics.
  3. Collaborate Locally: Foster collaborations between universities, startups, and industries to drive innovation.
  4. Strengthen Infrastructure: Create an ecosystem that supports tech development, from affordable cloud services to secure data centres.

A Call for Technological Sovereignty

Technological sovereignty is not about isolating oneself from global advancements but about ensuring resilience and independence.

By reducing dependency on external technologies, we can safeguard against disruptions caused by bans, restrictions, or competitive threats.

Conclusion

The world is changing rapidly, and the recent events surrounding NVIDIA, DeepSeek, and the broader tech market highlight an essential truth: relying solely on external technologies is a risk we cannot afford to take.

The solution lies in fostering a culture of innovation, investing in local talent, and building resilient ecosystems that can withstand global disruptions.

The future belongs to those who can adapt, innovate, and lead.

It’s time to take control of our technological destiny.

The question is: are we ready?

The Story Behind Favoriot – Part 2: Turning Failures into Milestones

The Journey Before Favoriot

If you’ve been following my journey, you already know that the Favoriot IoT Platform wasn’t our first attempt in the IoT world. Before we arrived at this point, my team and I worked tirelessly on two earlier products: Raqib and Favorsense. Despite our best intentions and efforts, neither venture has gained traction in the market.

The Launch of Raqib

I still vividly remember the day we launched Raqib. I looked at my team and said, “This is going to be a game-changer!” The enthusiasm in the room was electric. But reality had its own plans. We faced unexpected technical challenges, and our marketing efforts fell short. It was a tough pill to swallow, but we kept pushing forward.

Lessons from Favorsense

Then came Favorsense, a product built on a promising idea. This time, I thought, “Surely, we’ve learned from our mistakes.” And while the concept was strong, it struggled to capture user interest. I’d often sit at my desk late at night, reflecting on what went wrong. “Where did we falter? What could we have done differently?” I asked myself over and over again. Two products, two failures—it was a sobering experience.

A Silver Lining

But even amidst these setbacks, there was a silver lining. One element stood firm throughout the ups and downs: the Favoriot IoT Platform. I began to realize its potential. “This could be a tool for anyone wanting to build their own IoT solutions,” I told my team. With renewed determination, we made a bold decision—to pivot. We offered the Favoriot IoT Platform for free, hoping this move would attract a broader audience.

The Challenges of Adoption

However, even that wasn’t the end of our challenges. Offering the platform at no cost didn’t automatically translate into widespread adoption. I often asked, “Why aren’t people using it?” Despite creating tutorials and sharing resources, the uptake remained slow. It was frustrating and disheartening.

Bridging the Gap

But giving up wasn’t an option. I knew we had to dig deeper to address the gap. “We need to guide them more effectively,” I told my team. That’s when the idea of offering IoT courses took shape. These courses weren’t just about teaching theory; they were designed to provide hands-on experience with the Favoriot IoT Platform.

A Breakthrough in Education

And it worked. Today, over 16 universities and polytechnics in Malaysia use the Favoriot IoT Platform for their students’ final-year projects. I still remember the pride I felt when we hit that milestone. “This is a significant achievement for us,” I said to my team, filled with gratitude. Seeing students learning about IoT and applying it to real-world projects has been incredibly fulfilling.

Inspiring the Next Generation

I’m blown away by the students’ creativity whenever I visit these universities. I’ll ask them, “How are you integrating Favoriot into your project?” Their passion and excitement remind me why we started this journey in the first place. These moments make all the struggles worth it.

Expanding Beyond Malaysia

Looking ahead, our vision is to take the Favoriot IoT Platform beyond Malaysia. “The global stage is where we’re heading next,” I shared with my team. We’re already in talks with international institutions, and I’m hopeful that students worldwide will soon have access to our platform.

Innovating for the Future

Of course, the path forward won’t be without its challenges. I often ask myself, “How can we continue to innovate and improve?” In the fast-paced world of technology, standing still is not an option. Every evening, as I reflect on the day’s work, I remind myself, “We’ve come this far because of the lessons we learned from failure.”

Turning Failure into Success

Those early failures with Raqib and Favorsense weren’t the end of our story—they were the beginning of something greater. The Favoriot IoT Platform has become the cornerstone of IoT education in Malaysia, and it’s all thanks to the unwavering dedication of my team. I always make it a point to say, “Thank you,” because this success is as much theirs as it is mine.

The Journey Ahead

This journey is far from over. “This is just the beginning,” I tell my team. We’ll keep pushing boundaries, overcoming challenges, and reaching new heights together. Our story proves that failure isn’t the end—it’s an opportunity to rise stronger.

The Favoriot IoT Platform stands as a testament to perseverance and the belief that with hard work, even the most challenging setbacks can lead to incredible success.

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My Startup Journey

The Story Behind Favoriot – Part I: The Humble Beginnings of Favoriot

When I look back to 2017, I vividly recall the early days of building the Favoriot IoT Platform. We started small, working in a modest room with only a few dedicated staff members. It was a humble beginning, but our vision was anything but small.

The Idea Behind the Platform

The idea for the platform arose from a simple but pressing need—to support our first IoT product, Raqib. At the time, we realised there was a significant gap in the market for an IoT platform that could cater to businesses and developers in a user-friendly and accessible way. But as the idea began to take shape, doubts crept in.

“Can we really compete with giants like AWS and Azure?” I often asked myself. The thought was daunting. Competing against well-established platforms felt like an insurmountable challenge. We knew that many people didn’t know who we were, and there were plenty who doubted the capabilities of a small team attempting something so ambitious. But despite the naysayers, we pressed on. Deep down, we were confident in our technology’s potential and our ability to deliver something meaningful.

A Bold Move: Offering the Platform for Free

By 2019, we decided to take a bold step—offering the Favoriot IoT Platform to the public for free. “Maybe this will be the best way to attract attention and build an early user base,” I thought. It seemed like a logical approach. But the reality didn’t match our expectations. The response was underwhelming, to say the least. Only a handful of people showed interest, and our efforts didn’t yield the results we hoped for.

Finding a New Strategy: Education

Sitting down with the team, I voiced my concerns. “We need to do more. This isn’t enough. We must find a better way to introduce our platform.” The team brainstormed tirelessly, and that’s when the idea of offering IoT courses emerged. It was a lightbulb moment. We realised that one of the best ways to attract users was through education—teaching people about IoT while simultaneously showcasing the capabilities of our platform.

“But what if no one registers for the courses?” The doubt lingered. Investing time and resources into something that might not succeed was nerve-wracking. Still, we decided to take the plunge. We structured the courses so that participants could learn the fundamentals of IoT and get hands-on experience with the Favoriot IoT Platform.

Success Through IoT Education

Alhamdulillah, the effort paid off. The response to the courses was beyond encouraging. Participants appreciated the knowledge they gained and began to explore our platform in more significant numbers. It was a turning point for us. From those early courses, word began to spread, and the Favoriot IoT Platform started gaining traction. The numbers grew steadily; today, I’m proud to say that we have over 9,343 users from 111 countries. Seeing the global reach of something we built from scratch fills me with immense pride.

“I can’t believe we’ve come this far,” I shared with the team during our discussions. “But this is just the beginning. We still have so much more to achieve.”

Expanding to New Horizons

With the foundation now solid, we set our sights on the future. Our next goal is to expand our presence to neighbouring countries. The team and I are confident that the Favoriot IoT Platform can achieve even greater success beyond Malaysia. This journey has taught us that with effort and dedication, even the boldest dreams are within reach.

“Ready for the next phase?” I asked the team one day, knowing full well that the challenges ahead would be just as demanding as the ones we’ve overcome. Their answer was clear and resolute. We are ready to take on the IoT world.

Reflecting on the Journey

Looking back, I see how every step we took was filled with challenges and uncertainties, but it was also marked by resilience and an unrelenting drive to succeed. No matter how small, each decision was crucial in shaping where we are today. The journey has been extraordinary, from a tiny room with a handful of staff to a global platform with thousands of users.

A Glimpse of What’s Next

This is only part of the story behind the development of the Favoriot IoT Platform. There’s much more to share—the challenges we faced, the lessons we learned, and the milestones we celebrated. Stay tuned for Part II, where I’ll delve deeper into the obstacles we’ve encountered and how we’ve navigated them to reach where we are now.

This journey is a testament to what can be achieved with a clear vision, unwavering determination, and a great team by your side. I hope our story inspires others to pursue their big or small dreams. After all, every outstanding achievement starts with a single step and the willingness to take it.

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My Startup Journey

The Crucial Role of Inclusiveness in AI

AI ETHICS

Principle of AI — Inclusiveness

Image create using ChatGPT

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

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

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

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

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

Building Inclusiveness into AI Development

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

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

We both knew the answer.

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

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

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

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

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

Addressing the Needs of Vulnerable Groups

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Ensuring Diversity Among AI Developers

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Moving Forward with Inclusive AI

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

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

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

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

The same approach must be taken with AI.

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

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

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

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