I have similar issues. I would like to do ow C redemptions from Asia to GLA or EDI. My departure can be from BKK, HKG, KUL or SIN. What would be my best option to keep total costs down; are CX and QF any cheaper than BA? Would I be better to hold on to the miles and redeem later on Malaysian Airlines once they joing OW later this year?

Thx
SF