Thanks for the suggestions. I know I am stretching it here but at least I have some time on my side. @skaars I didn't really think about a RTW through ANA. I will read up on it. I unfortunately already had the Amex Platinum so I don't think I'm eligible for a sign up bonus again.
@Mwenenzi I did take that trip however I ended up doing JFK-AUH-MLE on Etihad in J (AA miles booked when they opened almost a year out) and SIN-JFK (SQ miles in economy). I also used Air Asia in between MLE-KUL-SIN. I don't plan on flying Air Asia again after that experience, however you live and you learn .

I am trying to pick up where I left off from that trip since I wanted to go to HKG but didn't end up getting there on that trip.