Hi,
for cadetship in SQ thats the requirement so there is no way out but no harm trying it out after your degree. with a ppl does not mean you have an advantage over others as it is an ab intio programme. it will definetly show your passion in some way or another.
As for taking your fATPL, I would suggest you to look towards MFA or other fly schools in the region. STATA provides CASA licenses, which conversion to a CAAS license might pose certain problems for green pilots. MFA is the cheaper and better alternative at a price tag of 80 -100k depending on individual skills. STATA starts from 80kUSD. SFC starts from 140k SGD.
If your planning to join local carriers (non SQ) there are only tiger and jetstar. jetstar did hire a few green pilots and for tiger im not sure about it. Most LCC will both bond you and get you to self sponsor your type rating as well this will be able 40-60k which will be pay over your bond years. you will need to self-sponsor your fATPL before doing anything for other carriers.
as what other says, yest there are many other jobs in piloting then what you see in the local scene. FI jobs, coporate jets etc... overseas airlines, but the most important thing now will be you wanting to be a pilot. financially you must be stable prior to joining a flight school for fatpl. if your planning to loan, do consider carefully as interest for schools such as MFA is about 5%/yr in currently.
I would suggest you to self-fund a ppl in malaysia prior to determining if you really want a piloting job. get the taste of flight and see if it is your cup of tea. afther which then you move on with your decision. do try applying for SQ cadet after your graduation.
Great way to fly