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!

I just got Maxis 3Gs 32gb white from LYP Apple shop. On the spot, pay rm2999 n take home. They even let me choose white or black.  Dont understand y ppl willing to pay like rm2700 rm2800 for the 16gb unofficial sets........... n those ppl getting the Maxis 16gb waiting for months really patient. Y not just pay a lil bit extra n grab the 32gb straight.