Date: October 24, 2024
Time: 8:30 PM
Location: Studio Suite, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Johan's studio suite was dimly lit, the ambient light from the city skyline filtering through the large windows. The quiet hum of the air conditioner was the only sound, punctuated occasionally by the distant honking of cars from the bustling streets below. Johan and Ali had just returned from a nearby dinner and were now back in the apartment, ready to work.
Ali was sprawled comfortably on the sofa, his eyes scanning a news article on his tablet. Johan sat at his desk, his desktop screen glowing with the contents of Ali's manuscript, "The Future of Mankind: Be an Executioner or Savior. You Choose." The room was a blend of modern minimalism, with sleek furniture and clean lines, yet it felt warm and lived-in.
"Alright, let's get this introduction email drafted," Johan said, his fingers poised over the keyboard. He glanced at Ali, who gave him an encouraging nod.
"Let's make it impactful. We need to grab their attention from the start," Ali replied, leaning forward, his face reflecting his earnestness.
Johan's phone buzzed on the desk. He glanced at the screen: a WhatsApp message from Michael. "Hey, buddy. Pardon me for not informing earlier. Guess what. I am in front of your office now. KLCC." A selfie of Michael with the iconic Petronas Twin Towers in the background followed.
Johan's eyes gleamed with disbelief. He quickly clicked the dial icon, the phone ringing for a few moments before Michael's familiar voice answered.
"Mike, how could you do this? You should have informed me so I could be your chauffeur," Johan yelled the moment he heard Michael's voice, a mixture of surprise and excitement in his tone.
"Pardon me, bud. I needed to settle all my things before joining you. Have all the time for good now," Michael explained, sounding a bit apologetic.
"Well then, do me a personal favor, will you? I'll share my location. Take a ride over here; I'm waiting for you with a surprise," Johan ordered, a smile spreading across his face.
"Will do. See you soon," Michael replied, ending the call.
Johan quickly sent Michael his location and turned to Ali. "Guess who's joining us tonight?"
"Who?" Ali asked, his curiosity piqued.
"Michael. He's right outside KLCC," Johan said, still smiling.
Ali's face lit up. "That's great! It'll be good to have him here."
As they waited for Michael, Johan and Ali resumed their work. Johan's fingers flew over the keyboard, drafting the email introduction for their NGO, "Ethical AI for Humanity." The mission statement was clear: to ensure that AI development was guided by ethical principles and served the greater good of society. They outlined the goals, including advocating for transparency, promoting sustainable practices, and educating the public about the potential and pitfalls of AI.
Half an hour later, there was a knock on the door. Johan jumped up and opened it to find Michael standing there with a broad smile, a small suitcase beside him.
"Surprise!" Michael exclaimed, his voice echoing through the hallway.
"Mike, you made it!" Johan pulled him into a hug, patting his back. "Come in, come in."
Michael stepped inside, his eyes taking in the suite. "Nice place you got here, Johan."
"Thanks. Ali's here too," Johan said, closing the door behind him.
"Ali! Long time no see," Michael greeted, walking over to the sofa where Ali stood up to embrace him.
"Good to see you, Mike. How was the journey?" Ali asked, his face beaming.
"Tiring, but I'm glad to be here," Michael replied, sitting down and stretching his legs.
Johan handed Michael a cold drink. "We were just working on the introduction email for the NGO. Perfect timing, actually. We could use your input."
Michael took a sip, nodding. "I'd be happy to help. Let's get to it."
The three friends settled into a comfortable rhythm, discussing ideas and refining the email. Johan read aloud the draft, and together they tweaked the language to ensure it was both compelling and concise.