it really depends on what you want. the canon s3is is a great ultra zoom camera but it is obvious that its image quality will never be on par with dslr cameras. however, it provides hybrid functionality as it can record movies (in stereo) and the video quality is excellent.

on the other hand, if image quality is what you want and nothing else then maybe Pentax K10D will be suitable. if i'm not mistaken, it is still above the 3k price. i think recommended price is at rm3888 or something like that.
thats quite a lot of difference between the 2 cameras. you can get the s3is for around rm 1400 + . Unless u are talking about k110 d or k100d which is both priced around RM2300-2600.

you cant really compare semi pro cameras with dslr cameras. The latter will always yield better images but will be harder to use and require much time and effort to take great pics. with the s3is, it is easier to lug around and also much user friendly. you might want to consider getting a prosumer camera like the s3is or panasonic FZ8 or sony h9/h7 and decide later whether you need a dslr later.
just my thoughts

martin parr took better images with his k750i compared to some of the images i have seen from dslr cameras. in fact, when i used my bro in law's sony alpha, all i used was the green picture on the dial. sad..

i think he meant k100d not k10d as it is RM 3880!!

but it is ugly in my opinion
the lettering on the camera looks like at was written with correction fluid

nah....the canon 350d looks good as it is
maybe can spray white stripes
VENOM!