Om Malik, 1966-2026

Om was one of those rare people who left every place a little richer simply by being there.

I first convinced him to come to Startup Iceland in 2015 after a conversation on Twitter. At the time, I couldn’t have imagined that what began as an invitation to speak would turn into a friendship that lasted for years. He returned to Iceland again and again, drawn not only by our startup community, but by the country’s landscapes, light, and endless opportunities to create beautiful photographs. Iceland became one of the places he loved, and we always looked forward to welcoming him back.

Over the years, our conversations wandered effortlessly between technology, startups, India, photography, craftsmanship, and—perhaps unexpectedly for many—cricket. Om genuinely loved the craft behind everything. Whether he was writing, taking photographs, building a company, investing, or discussing a cover drive through extra cover, he believed that excellence came from care, patience, and attention to detail.

As a journalist, he was in a class of his own. He understood technology deeply, but he never lost sight of the people behind it. He asked difficult questions, challenged conventional wisdom, and had an unwavering commitment to intellectual honesty. He kept founders, investors, and the industry itself honest. They don’t make journalists like Om anymore.

To me, however, he was much more than a legendary technology writer. He was a mentor, a trusted friend, and someone whose perspective I always valued. He was always there when I called. I’ll miss our conversations about cricket, India, technology, startups, and life. I already miss hearing his unmistakable voice asking a question that made me rethink what I thought I knew.

Thank you, Om, for your friendship, your generosity, your curiosity, and your example. Startup Iceland is a better community because you chose to make it part of your journey, and I know I am a better person because our paths crossed.

Rest in peace, my friend. You will be deeply missed.