Someone from safcom got in touch soon after I ranted here...and so far the texts I send get delivered without delay. But what of the other millions out there? Everybody I talk to says they have the same problem.
A long-term solution needs to be sought - since as Andrew has hinted - it means they probably are seeking support from the chinese which may/may not be forthcoming (borrowing from wikileaks :) )...but the worst bit here is the aspect of going for cost-cutting measures that have an impact on the QoS they deliver to clients. Seems the arc of cheapness always tends to the expensive. Totally uncool.