BY: HARALD KRIENER
Slow internet speeds are definitely a major hurdle for cloud-dependent workplaces. As teams rely more on Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) tools, network performance becomes a business-critical factor.
Discover how Internet Exchange operator DE-CIX and technology leader Microsoft are working together to reduce latency, improve connectivity and help businesses collaborate more efficiently, unlocking real productivity across entire SaaS office environments.
Whether it’s sending emails, co-editing documents in real time or engaging in virtual meetings, the Internet continues to reshape how teams collaborate. Cloud-based office software helps businesses remain agile and productive.
Microsoft’s 2023 survey of approximately 4,500 employees in the United States, the United Kingdom and Japan highlights this shift: 85% of respondents see collaboration tools as indispensable, underscoring a global trend that’s equally relevant here in Malaysia. Local employees are increasingly looking for seamless digital experiences that allow them to connect easily, automate repetitive tasks and tap into smart features that simplify project management and daily workflows.
One task, too many tools: Why lack of integration slows teams down
From managing document approvals to storing email attachments and analysing work patterns, digital tools unleash their full potential only when they are seamlessly integrated. In many organisations, different branches across states — for example, the HQ in Kuala Lumpur and a regional office in Penang or Johor — often use separate apps or systems to carry out the same tasks.
This disconnect causes friction: 72% of employees surveyed want better cross-team compatibility and 64% say tools are not embedded effectively into workflows. The result? Lost efficiency and duplicated efforts, such as copying data manually between platforms when marketing, finance and sales all operate in silos.
For 8 out of 10 respondents, it’s clear: teams perform best when they can access and work with documents and data collaboratively – across departments and locations. In a fast-paced digital economy, businesses in Malaysia must take integration seriously because when tools don’t talk to each other, your teams can’t either.
When internet slows, productivity takes a hit
As more Malaysian businesses digitalise their operations, seamless cloud connectivity has become mission-critical. Like in other growing digital economies, Malaysia faces its own set of challenges. A 2022 DE-CIX study from Germany found that Internet delays cost employees an average of 46 minutes per week – minutes that can quickly add up to several lost working days per year.
These delays affect productivity, with eight in ten office professionals saying they regularly lose time waiting for services to load or respond. In a digital economy where speed and reliability are key, ensuring low-latency connectivity is no longer optional — it’s essential for staying competitive.
Say goodbye to office-wide lag with smarter connectivity solutions
When teams fall behind due to long loading times, many employees point to the same root cause: network infrastructure. According to the DE-CIX survey, 37% blame overloaded networks, while 27% cite poor infrastructure development. Another 21% suspect internal IT networks are at fault. For businesses relying heavily on cloud-based tools like Microsoft Outlook, Teams, and OneDrive, a smart solution is needed to keep operations running smoothly.
Enter the Microsoft Azure Peering Service (MAPS), a solution developed by DE-CIX and Microsoft that’s already making an impact in markets like India and now offers huge potential for Malaysia. MAPS allows enterprises to connect directly to Microsoft’s cloud platform, significantly reducing latency and improving data transfer speeds across entire office locations.
Whether using Outlook, Teams, or OneDrive, businesses that implement MAPS can steer their SaaS traffic more efficiently. The service ensures predictable latency and consistent bandwidth by keeping data on the shortest route possible. This not only stabilises video meetings and file sharing, but also enhances overall performance of the Microsoft 365 office suite.
A further benefit: MAPS offers strong protection against Distributed Denial-of-Service (DDoS) attacks. Since traffic is routed via Microsoft’s secure infrastructure, organisations reduce the need for additional cybersecurity spending. Adoption is simple for companies already working with redundant connections, ideally in a colocation environment and with a multi-provider setup. With DE-CIX’s local presence and technical support, Malaysian businesses can enjoy seamless integration and ongoing guidance to future-proof their network infrastructure.
If you’re ready to elevate your digital operations and tackle lag head-on, MAPS through DE-CIX is a smart step forward for Malaysia’s cloud-first business environment.
Putting employee needs first: Building a future-ready workplace in Malaysia
Fast, seamless collaboration isn’t a luxury – it’s an expectation. According to DE-CIX, around 63% of employees experience Internet slowdowns at least once a month, and over one-third (38%) face delays multiple times a week or even daily. For Malaysian businesses looking to stay competitive and retain talent, the message is clear: listen to your workforce and invest in robust IT infrastructure and reliable connectivity.
A cloud-first, hybrid work environment requires more than just digital tools, it demands seamless collaboration, consistent performance and a strong foundation built around the real needs of employees.
**Harald Kriener is the Head of Global Customer Success Management at DE-CIX
-HR HUB
