Having a PPL is actually a good thing. Though some do get cut off during the second interview... The reasons being....those are the people just getting a PPL for the sake of showing passion but don't know anything else...known commonly as minimal pilots.... The other reason is that many of the aspiring pilots go to johor to get their ppl. That is a well NO-NO. It's just as good as buying a license. It's the same as a degree...you graduated from some private unknown unversity compared to a recognised one. Yes it is still a degree as what many will argue but the value of it makes a difference in this reality. So to those people who just want to take a hit at flying first, please choose reputable instruction... spend a little more is better than saving and devaluing the worth. Just my 2 cents.