Just wondering if anyone here was in the same boat
I know a lot of people in a similar situation. The problem is not unique to Singapore - you should note Hong Kong has essentially the same problem (being a penny-sized ex-colony) but for slightly different reasons (note HK / China / Taiwan / Macau are separate territories). I won't like to go into these reasons in an open forum.
I can only speak about Australia. Flight instructors (not merely pilots) are on the welcomed list and considered a skill immigrant under a 457 visa (no age limit). You can get your licence converted and then add on an instructor rating. Then get a 457 visa and prepared to spend some years instructing and building hours towards your dream pilot job. Good luck.