Ah-hah, the picture's clearer. I figured you would have to be an
S3/XO 1st - are you one already? - deputizing behind a CO before
succeeding him. That was the experience within my Arty unit.
It was also from a couple of recycled KAHs (my CO & RSM) that I
learnt informally about the ROVERS scheme. FYI They elected not to
"overstay" beyond their extended obligations, certainly not past
age 40+. My CO, in particular, found it increasingly tough juggling
both careers; his MNC job was generous with time but he found it
too stressful to spend 40+ days each year attending staff-officer
courses along with the regular ICTs.
Even if the scheme doesn't apply to you now, it soon will & I
recommend you familiarize yourself with all of its parameters.
Here's a start:
http://www.mindef.gov.sg/display.asp?number=549
My CO & RSM were noticeably excused from IPPT all the way too -
dunno if it was due to downgrade or Cat Z/non-FFI clearance - but
otherwise "carried on as usual." That's why I forewarned a
reclassified PES status may not get what you really want. Maybe
there's a different standard with other combat formations, but in
Arty there's no hope for a downgraded reservist gunner for a switch
in vocation/appointment, as long as he can moderately sweat as he
would as a civilian.
I doubt your MP can help you much either. They have some influence
but tend to be too pro-establishment & cognizant of the SAF's
needs. It's likely they'll bear peer pressure on you to conform
instead, even as you attempt to get them to support your
petition.
No go with income ceiling? The only other plausibly-effective
alternative I can think of is an overseas job posting, with
concrete evidence that you'll be based in another country (even
Malaysia). I dunno how hardball they'll be with approving your exit
permit - this area is where your MP can truly help you, for once -
but logic says they can only appeal to your sense of
nationalism/duty as a last resort. You have the prerogative to
respond if it comes down to this.
A word, though: it's almost certain they'll hoping on utilizing you
again, esp. for a SCSC-trained officer. In other words, you'll
likely be put on a holding list to await your return. Does that
mean you'll liable until age 50? I don't think it'll strictly
apply, if the ROVERS scheme counts for anything. That's why I
suggest you read up on everything you can about the latter.