In a country where conversations around economic reform often circle the same tired points, Super Pakistan emerges as a breath of fresh air—an unapologetically bold and visionary roadmap to economic revival. Packed with unconventional proposals and untapped possibilities, this book presents ideas that have never been discussed in Pakistan’s 75-year history. From Astro-tourism to futuristic universities, renaming cities to reimagining tax reforms, author Ilyas M. Zeeshan paints a compelling picture of what Pakistan could become: the 15th largest economy in the world within just five years, if a V-shaped economic growth model is adopted.

Mr. Zeeshan’s insights are anything but theoretical. Born and raised in Karachi, he earned his master’s in International Relations from Roosevelt University, Chicago in 1980, and later pursued an MBA from the same institution. He is a seasoned businessman, inventor and author of five books—including work on President Donald Trump—and has appeared on various radio and television platforms in the United States. With firsthand experience across several dozen countries, Mr. Zeeshan brings a unique global lens to Pakistan’s challenges and opportunities. Currently based in the suburbs of Washington, DC, he joins us for an exclusive conversation with Glam Magazine to share his transformative vision for a Super Pakistan.

•  “Super Pakistan” is a bold title. What inspired you to write this book, and what is your vision of ‘super’ Pakistan?

“Super Pakistan” refers to the idea that a country’s economic size should match its population ranking. Pakistan is the fifth most populous country in the world. If and when its economy rises to the same level, it will justifiably be known as Super Pakistan. If we follow the roadmap in the book—and assuming there’s no major war or natural disaster—Pakistan can reach a one trillion dollar economy in five years and become the 15th largest economy in 10 years. Within a generation, it could be the 5th largest economy globally.

• Your book suggests enterprising ideas to boost Pakistan’s economy. Which one do you believe has the most realistic potential in the next five years?

First and foremost, we must drastically reduce unemployment. The way to do that is by teaching people to become entrepreneurs. The old model of going to school for sixteen years to earn above-average income is fading. Now, with the internet and YouTube, one can become productive in less than 16 months. I have explained this in Chapter Five: Triangle of Full Employment. I have even listed the top 20 skills that can be learned in less than a year. If someone knows English, they can be hired in Europe and beyond as independent service providers, working comfortably from home.

•  As someone who explores ideas, how do you see the role of creativity and innovation in transforming a nation’s economy?

Innovation has no boundaries. Every product—tangible or intangible—can be improved. That’s the essence of Chapter Four: Innovation Nation. Anyone can learn to innovate. Age, background, or education doesn’t matter. I describe simple, actionable steps in the book. Even low-level innovation can help people build a niche, a competitive edge and dominate markets.

• You’ve proposed several fascinating ideas. Can you share some of the standout ones, which can help boost Pakistan’s economy?

Yes, I’ve suggested more than two dozen new ideas. Let’s explore a few:

Astro-Tourism: A new form of tourism that hasn’t been tapped. We don’t need advanced space programmes to participate. We can plan trips 30 kilometers above Earth near the Karman Line, where tourists could experience weightlessness for a few hours. It’s realistic, exciting, and can generate significant revenue. Europe, Russia, and China are selling their advance space travel trips for millions of dollars.

Super University: A world-class institution where Nobel Prize winners are visiting professors. It would teach futuristic subjects like nanotechnology, genomics, and cybersecurity—fields that will soon be as in-demand as AI. This would attract the children of millionaires and billionaires worldwide.

Reunification with Bangladesh: Politically bold, yes. But dialogue could start based on the Six Points of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman. Pakistan could offer a nuclear umbrella for Bangladesh’s security as a basis for discussions.

A Second Name for Pakistan: Countries have changed names to strengthen identity. A second name could boost Pakistan’s soft power, increase nationalism, and even reinforce our claim on the Koh-i-Noor.

Renaming Cities: Giving major cities new names rooted in culture and pride will create nostalgia and increase civic ownership.

Babri Masjid Replica: I propose constructing a replica on the historic route Babur took into the subcontinent. It could become a symbol and boost religious tourism, particularly from Muslim nations.

Redesign of Currency: A beautifully designed new currency note that foreigners would want to keep as a souvenir, showcasing art and pride.

Renaming Parliament Houses: Changing the names of both houses of parliament to Diwan-e-Aam and Diwan-e-Khas—terms deeply rooted in Mughal and South Asian history—would give a uniquely Pakistani imprint.

Q.  What about political reforms? How do we ensure stability in governance?

Zeeshan: In Chapter Six, I suggest a framework where every Prime Minister can complete their full term. Stability is key for economic and social progress. I also propose reforms that make political parties disincentivized to incite violence. In Chapter Seven, I discuss a law that ensures violent processions are no longer in their interest. Additionally, I’ve proposed a strategy to make people pay taxes rapidly and willingly. It’s about rebuilding trust and delivering value.

• You hinted at a plan involving overseas Pakistanis and international startups. What’s that about?

I have a detailed and specific plan to launch three startup corporations in the United States with the support of overseas Pakistanis. These ventures involve highly unique concepts—ranging from traditional products to cutting-edge technology. The franchise potential is global, and the revenue could be in the hundreds of billions. The remittances from these companies can be reinvested in Pakistan’s high-tech industries, helping accelerate growth and innovation. While I can’t disclose all details publicly, interested overseas Pakistaniscan contact me directly on email.

Q.  One of your closing thoughts in the book is about mindset. What exactly is the “semi-cyborg” mindset?

It’s time Pakistan says goodbye to Semi-Amish thinking—a reference to outdated, overly conservative, or anti-tech mindsets. We must embrace a semi-cyborg mindset: one that integrates tradition with futuristic thinking.

This means being tech-savvy, globally aware, and driven by innovation—a people ready to shape the future rather than be shaped by it.

• Lastly what message would you like to give especially to the young dreamers, thinkers and future change makers of Pakistan?

Pakistan doesn’t lack talent—it lacks direction and bold execution. Super Pakistan is not fiction. It’s a roadmap built with realistic, achievable ideas. If the youth, overseas Pakistanis, and policymakers come together with vision and determination, nothing can stop us from becoming a global powerhouse.

Contact details: [email protected]

Download the free E-book: www.superpakistan.us

The Journey of Orient Plastcare Pakistan

In the ever-evolving world of plastic packaging, where sustainability and innovation often seem at odds, Orient Plastcare Pakistan has managed to carve a niche for itself. Spearheaded by Faheem Hameed, the company has become a leader in the plastic bottling industry mainly in pharmaceutical, catering to both national and international markets with a commitment to quality and eco-friendly practices.

Q1: What inspired you to establish Orient Plastcare Pakistan, and how does it differentiate itself from competitors in the plastic bottling industry?

A: Over the last 20 years, Pakistan’s plastic industry has grown tremendously. Before plastic became mainstream, materials like PVC and metal sheets were commonly used. What truly inspired us was the opportunity to create something unique by introducing highly precise machinery imported from Germany and Japan and molds imported from Qatar. These machines ensure unmatched precision and eliminate leakage problems, giving us a significant edge over competitors.

Our operations span across Karachi, Lahore, Islamabad, and Peshawar, with indirect exports to Russian and African states. The quality of our products is 100% pure and original, adhering to strict regulations. We work with 30–40 national and international clients, including renowned names like Sanofi, Adamjee, Nabi Qasim, Atco Laboratories, and Helix Pharma.

Q2: What have been some of the biggest challenges you faced in running this business, and how did you overcome them?

A: Living and working in Karachi is like fighting a war every day. The challenges have evolved over time, but inflation and the devaluation of currency remain our biggest hurdles. Importing raw materials and machinery has become extremely costly, making financial transactions challenging.

Moreover, the lack of reliable utilities such as electricity, gas and water creates additional obstacles. To counter these issues we’ve invested in alternate solutions like solar systems and inverters, which, while costly, help us maintain operations. Unfortunately, in Pakistan, you have to rely on yourself to survive and adapt.

Q3: Your company emphasizes high-tech and cost-effective packaging. How do you ensure continuous innovation in your product line?

A: There was a time when machinery from Japan, Germany, the USA and other European countries was dominant in the industry due to its exceptional quality and durability. However, these machines consume a lot of energy, and with Pakistan’s high electricity costs and unreliable supply, they’re no longer viable.

To ensure innovation and sustainability, we’ve transitioned to using machinery from China, Taiwan and Thailand. These machines are more energy-efficient and sustainable while still delivering quality, allowing us to maintain cost-effectiveness in our operations.

Q4: Plastic waste is a global concern. What measures has Orient Plastcare implemented to promote sustainability and eco-friendliness in its operations?

A: Sustainability is a key focus for us. Our cutting-edge machinery and high-quality molds ensure zero wastage during production. Additionally, our processes do not emit hazardous fumes, making them environmentally friendly. We are committed to minimizing our environmental impact while maintaining the highest standards of production quality.

Q5: What strategies have you employed to achieve a production capacity of 60,000 to 80,000 bottles per project?

A: The secret to scaling production lies in increasing the number of cavities in our molds. For example, if a 12-cavity mold produces 12 bottles in 30 seconds, upgrading to a 16-cavity mold increases output to 16 bottles in the same time frame. This method allows us to significantly increase production capacity while keeping costs under control.

Q6: How do you foresee the future demand for HDPE, LDPE, PP and PET products, and how is Orient Plastcare preparing for it?

A: These materials have been industry staples for over a century. However, advancements are underway, and new materials are currently in the research and development phase. These next-generation materials are expected to be more reliable and environmentally friendly and will likely enter the market by 2027 or 2028. We are closely monitoring these developments and preparing to adapt our operations accordingly.

Q7: What is your take on the current state of the plastic packaging industry in Pakistan, and how do you adapt to changing regulations and international standards in the pharmaceutical and food packaging industries?

A: Pakistan, being a third-world country, faces many regulatory challenges. To compete in international markets like the USA and UK, we need stricter regulations and SOPs. Currently, only a handful of companies in Pakistan are FDA-approved.

That said, industries like pharmaceuticals, meat and confectionery have made significant strides in exporting to Muslim countries by adhering to halal standards. With stricter regulations and improved practices, Pakistan has the potential to make a greater impact in global markets.

Q8: How do you build and maintain trust with pharmaceutical and biomedical clients who rely on your products for their packaging needs?

A: Trust is critical in our industry, especially when working with pharmaceutical clients. We undergo regular audits and inspections conducted quarterly or annually by our clients. These inspections cover every aspect of our operations, from production areas and warehouses to sanitary facilities and discharge areas. By maintaining transparency and adhering to strict standards, we ensure our clients’ trust and confidence.

Q9: Are there any plans to expand Orient Plastcare’s product range or explore international markets? Where do you see the company in the next five to ten years?

A: Expansion is always on our radar. Over the next 5–10 years, we plan to open multiple offices across Pakistan and expand our footprint in international markets. Our mission is to introduce new products and innovations while continuing to provide the highest quality to our clients.

Q10: What advice would you give to young entrepreneurs who want to enter the manufacturing sector in Pakistan?

A: My advice to young entrepreneurs is simple: focus on production and manufacturing within your country. Given the current economic climate, importing products and reselling them has become extremely expensive. By manufacturing locally, you can not only sustain your business but also maintain healthy profit margins. Manufacturing offers stability, scalability, and the opportunity to compete on a global stage. It’s a rewarding field for those willing to invest their time and energy.

Australian Concept Infertility IVF & genetics center

For over 27 years, Australian Concept Infertility IVF & Genetics center has been a source of hope for thousands of couples struggling with infertility. What once seemed like an impossible dream has now become a reality for so many who have walked through the doors of this pioneering fertility centre. Through advanced medical expertise, cutting-edge technology, and a deep commitment to ethical and compassionate care, Dr. Sajjad and his team have helped countless couples experience the indescribable joy of holding their child for the first time.

Infertility is more than just a medical condition—it is an emotional and psychological battle that affects every aspect of a couple’s life. In a society where having children is often considered an essential part of marriage, the pain of infertility can be isolating, misunderstood, and even stigmatized.

Since its inception in 1998, Australian Concept Infertility IVF & Genetics center has not only introduced world-class Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) to Pakistan but has also worked tirelessly to educate, counsel, and support patients through every step of their fertility journey. Today, with state-of-the-art fertility clinics across multiple cities, a team of highly skilled embryologists and doctors, and a commitment to continuous innovation, the group remains a leader in the field of infertility treatment.

In this exclusive interview, Dr. Syed Sajjad Hussain shares his journey, the evolution of ART and IVF in Pakistan, the latest advancements in fertility treatments.

Q1. Could you share what inspired you to enter this field and the challenges you faced in the early days?

Infertility has always been a silent struggle, and in Pakistan, it is not just a medical challenge—it is a societal and emotional one. When I first stepped into this field, IVF was widely misunderstood. Many people believed that a test tube baby meant an artificially created child, grown entirely in a laboratory. There was fear, misinformation, and a lot of religious concerns about whether this treatment was permissible in Islam.

I knew that infertility wasn’t just about medicine; it was about emotions, relationships, and the deep pain of longing for a child. A  team of experts from Australia came to Pakistan in the 1990s to study fertility treatments. I realized that there was an urgent need to establish a world-class fertility centre in Pakistan—one that would not only provide advanced treatments but also help change the way people perceive infertility.

We faced resistance in the beginning. Many questioned whether we were interfering with Divine will. I wanted to address this openly, so I asked a journalist to publish extensive research on Islamic rulings regarding IVF. It became clear that Islam allows fertility treatments as long as they are conducted between a legally married couple without third-party donors. Once people understood this, perceptions began to change, and we moved forward with our mission.

Q2. How has the perception of infertility and fertility treatments evolved in Pakistan over the years?

The progress has been remarkable, but there is still a long way to go. When we started, infertility treatments were only available in a few places, and patients had to travel to Karachi for even basic tests. This was emotionally and financially exhausting for couples. I saw their struggles and knew we had to bring fertility treatments closer to them. We expanded our centres to Hyderabad, Sukkur, Lahore, and other cities to ensure that couples across the country could access these services.

However, Pakistan still lags behind many other countries when it comes to fertility research and awareness. In western countries, doctors and researchers collaborate, share knowledge, and continuously refine treatments. Here, there is still hesitation in discussing infertility openly, and research is not as advanced as it should be. But we are working to change that.

Q3. What are the most common misconceptions about IVF and infertility that you’ve encountered?

There are many, but one of the biggest misconceptions is that infertility is only a woman’s problem. The reality is that male infertility is also responsible. Another misconception is that IVF guarantees pregnancy, when in fact, it significantly increases the chances but, like any medical procedure, does not guarantee success.

Some people still believe that IVF babies are somehow different from naturally conceived children, which is completely false. An IVF baby is just as natural and healthy—the only difference is that science is helping where patients need assistance.

Q4. What are some of the latest advancements in fertility treatments that you have introduced in your centres?

Science and technology have revolutionized fertility treatments over the years. One of the most significant advancements we’ve integrated is Time-Lapse Incubator technology, which allows us to monitor embryo development 24/7 without opening the incubator, reducing risks and improving embryo survival rates. We have also introduced Microsurgical Epididymal Sperm Aspiration (MESA), a breakthrough procedure that now offers hope to patients with zero sperm count.

Q5. IVF can be emotionally exhausting for couples. How do you support them through this process?

The emotional toll of infertility is immense. The struggle to conceive can lead to depression, anxiety, and relationship stress. Many couples feel isolated, ashamed, or pressured by family members. That’s why we ensure that our patients are not only receiving the best medical treatment but also the emotional and psychological support they need.

We provide counselling, offer financial assistance where needed, and make sure every couple feels heard and cared for. We never turn away a patient because of financial limitations. If someone truly needs assistance, we do our best to accommodate them with discounts and financial aid. No couple should have to give up on their dream of having a child due to financial constraints. We believe that parenthood is a right, not a privilege, and we do everything in our power to help our patients through their journey.

Q6. Can you share some of the most memorable success stories in your career?

There have been so many incredible success stories over the years, but some cases stand out as true miracles.

One patient came to us with extremely low hormone levels and a history of surgery. Medically speaking, her chances of conceiving were close to zero. But she and her husband were determined to try. We provided the best treatment possible, but ultimately, we knew that success depended on Allah’s will. Miraculously, she conceived and gave birth to a healthy baby. Seeing that couple hold their child for the first time was a moment I will never forget.

Another case was of a lawyer who was eager to start the IVF process immediately. However, for the safety of the baby, we always recommend that mothers be vaccinated against Rubella before pregnancy. He insisted on proceeding without waiting. Unfortunately, just four months into the pregnancy, the virus attacked, and the child did not survive. It was heartbreaking, and it reinforced an important lesson—medical guidance must be followed for the health and safety of both mother and baby.

On a more positive note, I remember a woman who won a free IVF treatment during one of our promotional campaigns. When she came in for counseling, I advised her to first lose some weight and improve her diet before undergoing the procedure. A few months later, she called me from Faisalabad, overjoyed—she had conceived naturally without even needing IVF. Today, she is a mother of three. This was a perfect example of how simple lifestyle changes can sometimes be the key to fertility.

Q7. How does lifestyle impact fertility, and what advice do you give to couples trying to conceive?

Lifestyle plays a major role in fertility. Many cases of infertility can be linked to poor diet, stress, smoking, obesity, or hormonal imbalances. I always tell my patients that before considering any medical procedures, they should first focus on their health.

For women, maintaining a healthy weight is crucial because excessive weight gain or loss can disrupt hormonal balance and ovulation. For men, smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can reduce sperm quality. Even stress can affect fertility, as it can lead to hormonal imbalances. A healthy body creates the best environment for conception.

Q8. Pakistan still lags behind other countries in fertility research. What steps are you taking to change this?

This is something I am deeply passionate about. In many developed countries, infertility research is a priority, and medical professionals constantly collaborate to improve treatments. In Pakistan, we lack dedicated research institutions focused on ART. That is why I am working towards establishing a world-class research and training institute in Pakistan.

My goal is to not only treat patients but also train future fertility specialists. We need more doctors, embryologists, and researchers who are equipped with the latest knowledge and skills. I want to build a centre where local and international experts can work together, conduct research, and bring Pakistan to the forefront of fertility advancements.

Q9. What is your vision for the future of Australian Concept Infertility IVF & genetics centre?

My mission has always been simple—to provide the best fertility treatments in Pakistan with honesty, dedication and compassion. I want our centres to continue offering the most advanced technologies, the highest ethical standards, and a patient-first approach.

I also want to make fertility treatments more accessible and affordable, so that no couple has to suffer in silence because they cannot afford care. Whether I am here or not, I want this mission to continue—to ensure that every couple who dreams of having a child gets the best chance to make that dream a reality.

Q10. What message would you like to give to couples struggling with infertility?

To every couple who is struggling, I want to say this: You are not alone. Infertility is not a curse, and it is not something to be ashamed of. It is a medical condition, just like any other, and there are solutions available.

I have seen countless couples who had lost hope finally hold their baby in their arms. Faith, patience, and the right treatment can make miracles happen. And at Australian Concept Infertility IVF & Genetics center, we are here to help you every step of the way. Your journey to parenthood starts with hope, and we are honoured to be a part of that journey.