You don’t have to be a genius or a visionary or even a college graduate to be successful. You just need a framework and a dream.
– Michael Dell, American billionaire businessman
Disruptors are the game changers, the trailblazers, and the rebels who challenge the status quo, shatter the norms and redefine the future.
They are the ones who refuse to settle for the ordinary, the predictable, or the safe.
Instead, they embrace the risks, uncertainties, and possibilities that lie ahead. They use their creativity, vision, and courage to forge new paths, disrupt old industries, and create new ones.
Disruptors are not just innovators or entrepreneurs; they are disruptors of the entire ecosystem, and the impact of their ideas and activities can be felt for generations to come.
Creating new innovations, technologies, and solutions is essential to success and progress in an ever-shifting world. As a renowned physicist and futurist, Dr Michio Kaku has said, “Society advances by replacing old tools with new ones, not by keeping the old tools.”
Through disruption, new ideas and technologies can be introduced, and existing ones can be improved.
Disruptors have the power to shift the way we think and create lasting change. Without them, progress would be limited, and obstacles could remain forever.
Some of the most notable disruptors in history have gone on to revolutionise the world. For example, Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak created Apple, revolutionising computing and mobile technology.
Similarly, Elon Musk has disrupted the automotive industry with his electric cars. His SpaceX is continuously pushing the boundaries of space exploration and innovation.
Jeff Bezos has pushed the boundaries of commerce with Amazon. Reed Hastings and Marc Randolph’s Netflix has revolutionised how we watch movies and TV shows.
Uber disrupted the taxi industry by introducing a new technology platform that connects riders with drivers. Uber challenged the traditional taxi industry by offering a more convenient and affordable service.
Airbnb disrupted the hotel industry by offering a new platform for homeowners to rent their homes to travellers. It challenged the traditional hotel industry by providing a more personalised and affordable service.
However, anyone desiring to be a disruptor faces many challenges when implementing change in established organisations.
The first challenge is resistance to change. People often resist new ideas and are comfortable with how things are done. Disruptors must overcome this resistance by demonstrating the benefits of their ideas.
Another challenge is the fear of failure. Many organisations are risk-averse and are hesitant to invest in new ideas that may fail. Disruptors must convince organisations that the potential benefits outweigh the risks.
Finally, disruptors may face regulatory barriers that can hinder their progress. Regulations are often put in place to protect established industries. They can make it difficult for disruptors to enter the market.
Disruptors must be able to navigate these regulatory barriers and work with regulators to create a regulatory environment that supports innovation. Uber and Airbnb faced many challenges, including regulatory obstacles and resistance and overcame them.
But disruptors aren’t just limited to the tech and commercial industry.
Rosa Parks refused to give up her seat on a bus, sparking a civil rights movement in the USA. Malala Yousafzai fought for girls’ education, despite threats to her life in Afghanistan. Greta Thunberg has inspired a global movement to combat climate change.
Disruptors come from all walks of life and backgrounds. They all share a common trait: the courage to challenge the status quo and the determination to make a difference.
We also have political disruptors who can make revolutionary but peaceful changes in governance.
It is worth noting that some political disruptors can have malicious racial or religious agendas with negative connotations. This can cause instability or create conflict.
Therefore, it’s essential for a political disruptor to approach change in a thoughtful and strategic manner that considers the needs and interests of all stakeholders.
In Sarawak, we have a premier who can be considered a ‘disruptor’. Datuk PatinggiTan Sri Abang Johari Tun Abang Openg has been able to fast-track many policies. Matters on the digital economy, revenue reengineering and social equity have been rolled out quickly to benefit Sarawakians.
The advantage of disruptors is that they can make ‘quantum leap’ changes. Otherwise, the change would be gradual, with the benefits only gradually accruing to the people.
Disruptors are essential for progress in Sarawak because they challenge the status quo, drive innovation, and spark positive change.
By breaking down barriers and pushing boundaries, disruptors can inspire and empower individuals, organisations, and communities to reach their full potential and create a brighter future for all.
Who knows, you might be the next game-changer that disrupts the environment as you know it. Why don’t you buckle up and become a disruptor in some shape or form. Be a visionary, maverick, and future-maker.
So let’s embrace disruptors and their ideas to catalyse progress and make Sarawak a better place for everyone.
The views expressed here are those of the columnist and do not necessarily represent the views of New Sarawak Tribune.
