Iqbal Abdullah is a technologist, entrepreneur, and community builder who has spent over two decades at the intersection of AI, software engineering, and business development. Originally from Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, he has been a resident of Japan since 1997 and currently operates from Tokyo.
As founder of a small business called LaLoka Labs and creator of the current incarnation of Kafkai, Iqbal develops AI-driven solutions that empower businesses to compete through intelligent content strategy and competitive insights. Previously, he founded Xoxzo, a telephony SaaS platform that operated remotely for 14 years before being acquired by Accrete Inc. in 2021.
Expertise
Iqbal brings together technical depth in Python and Django, practical AI implementation experience, and proven business acumen from roles at Yahoo! Japan and Amazon Japan. His work focuses on making AI accessible and practical for small and medium businesses, particularly in content generation, SEO strategy, and business intelligence.
He holds seven patents spanning data systems, authentication, telephony, and AI-powered information processing—demonstrating both technical innovation and commercial application.
Community Leadership
As a Python Software Foundation Fellow since 2022, Iqbal co-founded PyCon JP and PyCon MY, and serves as representative director of the Python Asia Organization. His community work earned him the 2024 PSF Community Service Award for advancing Python communities across East and Southeast Asia.
He is actively involved in the PSF's Diversity & Inclusion and Trademarks work groups, and has been a keynote speaker at PyCon SG 2025, PyCon APAC 2022, and numerous regional conferences, advocating for increased participation and opportunities in tech.
kafkai.ai Vision
Through kafkai.ai, Iqbal explores the evolving landscape of AI technology, its practical applications for businesses, the intersection of AI and content strategy, and the role of community in shaping responsible AI adoption. Drawing from his experience building products, running companies across multiple countries, and fostering technical communities, he provides insights on:
- AI implementation strategies for SMBs
- Content differentiation in the age of AI search
- Python ecosystem developments and applications
- Cross-border business and remote-first operations
- Tech community building and D&I advancement
- Conference insights and industry trends
Philosophy
運と縁と勘で生きています (Loosely translated to "Living by luck, connections, and intuition")
Iqbal believes technology should solve real human problems and create happiness. Whether building software, writing about trends, or organizing communities, his focus remains on closing opportunity gaps and enabling more people to participate in the tech ecosystem.