Hi MadChinaman,
I am a newbie here. I understand your plight and I am sorry. I was in the same predicament but during the late 80s, the requirements was only 3 'O' Levels and a CPL/IR. But as I had rejected the airforce offer, I couldn't joined SIA. Since then I have gone into business. But yes, I do miss flying but with all these red-tapes set up by our goverment, you are much better off somewhere else. Its lipservice here that they are paying and not much of "I am here to help and assist Singaporeans" quote our P.M.
Take care.