After reading everybody's feedback on this thread, I decided not to purchase from Maxis.

I managed to get an iPhone 3GS from Epicentre, Singapore.

The best news is there's no need for a contract.

There was no advertisement displayed saying that they sold iPhones outright, but I took a chance and asked them, and they said, yes, they do sell iPhones with no need for signing up with Singtel, M1 or Starhub.

I took ownership of a black 16GB unit yesterday, and more stock arrived today.

I inserted my Digi prepaid card into it, and activated via iTunes over the internet - everything was smooth sailing.

I guess if any of you are going down to Singapore, you could consider checking out the Epicentre stores (there's one in Ion Orchard, I bought mine at Somerset 313).

Or maybe ask friends / relatives to get one unit for you.

The price is SGD1040 for the 16GB unit, and SGD1240 for the 32GB.

You get a 5% GST refund if you fly out of Singapore.

According to the staff, the 1-year warranty is valid for repairs at Epicentre Pavilion KL too.

Good luck!

This post has been edited by dlcmh: Dec 17 2009, 10:31 PM

Right. I should have mentioned that it's perhaps a good idea to call them first and ask about their stock status.