I would suggest that attitude is another plus point as well. When I first started working, I took a job offer doing SAS which is not a well known field at that time, SAP is wayyy more in demand and pays exceptionally well but I wanted something different. My salary is shit, it was only borderline compared to other uni mates who earn 1k more than me, but i am doing it for the experience. After a while, gaji still shitty since starting salary is low, it's hard to 'jump' esp in the IT line, they will always look at your previous income. When I got here, my experience was recognised though I am no longer doing SAS, and more of a specialised role in the bank. Starting pay is just average, but I guess they were 'evaluating' me still, and now I got a promotion, raise and a permanent role with great benefits.

The fees are expensive, yes, but if you don't sacrifice, you get nothing.

I did SAS in Malaysia for 2 years, also some SSIS/SSRS since I am project based. Whatever boss say, must do loh 

Initially plan to do SAS in Aus, got in touch with the HR manager, but he was slow    and got offered a better role (not SAS)

Are you doing SAS in Msia? With SAS Institute direct or vendor?