There could be several reasons why many Malaysian companies do not directly adopt the hybrid work model. Firstly, cultural norms and traditional work practices may still heavily influence the way companies operate in Malaysia. In many Asian countries, including Malaysia, there is a strong emphasis on face-to-face interactions, hierarchy, and physical presence in the workplace. This mindset may make it challenging for organizations to embrace remote or hybrid work arrangements.Secondly, concerns about productivity and accountability may also play a role. Some managers may believe that having employees physically present in the office helps ensure better supervision and control over their work. They may be skeptical about the ability of employees to stay focused and deliver results while working remotely.Additionally, certain industries in Malaysia, such as manufacturing or customer service, may require on-site work due to the nature of their operations. This could limit the feasibility of implementing hybrid work models across all sectors.It is important to note that every organization and its leadership team make decisions based on their specific priorities, challenges, and organizational culture. While some companies may be more open to embracing hybrid work arrangements, others may have valid reasons for choosing to prioritize on-site work.The concerns raised by your project manager regarding social interaction and potential productivity issues are not uncommon. Some managers may believe that collaborative teamwork and spontaneous interactions are better facilitated in a physical office environment, leading to improved productivity and innovation. However, it is essential to consider that remote and hybrid work models can also foster collaboration and communication through appropriate tools and platforms.As an HR expert, it would be beneficial to engage in open conversations with management, employees, and relevant stakeholders to understand their concerns and explore potential solutions. This could involve discussing the benefits of hybrid work models, addressing individual and team needs, setting clear performance expectations, and implementing measures to ensure accountability and productivity.Ultimately, finding a balance between on-site and remote work that aligns with the company's goals, employee well-being, and industry demands is the key to successful implementation of hybrid work models in Malaysia.