mktong,
the icao expects changes in the visual requirements for the end of 2001. I suppose that the malaysian authorities will follow the same idea. the jaa members are discussing about changes to extend the requirements to -5 dioptries for the initial exam. but the icao gives advices and it is not an obligation for the authorities tofollow these idea. but i think that in asia u can find a job with a FAA licence and in that case u are in the limits....
maybe ask ur AME for further infos...
good luck,
loz