Originally Posted by craigthemif

I'm not sure why the inability to upgrade using Avios on MH means going via Hong Kong on BA or CX...

If you're willing to connect, you can try Malaysia's CDG-KUL for the A380 service. Fewer miles on redemptions and no UK APD.

When I went, it cost me about 1600 euros in a fare sale for business class - didn't check first class pricing.

I got an upgrade to First on the return leg of this trip. I was quite impressed with MH First Class - massive improvement on their business class, so indeed worth checking out.