Hi all, new to this site. I was previously resided in Australia and joined the IOA , passed 4 papers. Now I have relocated to Malaysia and considering of switching to SOA. Few things I need enlightenment on.

1) I am under impression that SOA is more recognisable Malaysia employers, is that true?
2) Are study material and exam fee for SOA much cheaper than IOA? I couldn't find any information on this, I am paying around AUD$240 per subject for study material and AUD$550 per exam.
3) What is structure of the exam? IOA exams are generally 3 hours long, all writing no multiple choice of course.
4) Hard to get exemptions for the exams I have done in IOA?
5) Lastly, SOA or IOA? I know this is bit vague but I am just trying pool some feedbacks.

Thanks!