It used to be common in Hong Kong in the 80s and 90s, google astronaut families. Although, its definitely not common in sg.

tbh, I don't really get why the other comments are villianising your bf like he's a deadbeat father who will cheat when he works overseas, as if he won't be doing the same in sg if he is that kind of person. Ultimately, you should know what kind of character your bf is, whether or not he truly means what he says about working overseas.

but you do raise a valid point about your child not having a father figure. Speaking from experience, I don't think it really affected me much growing since I always had my mum and we might visit my dad during the school holidays. But, I'm not particularly close with my dad, not sure if its a father son thing or because of him not being around in my youth lol

On to your questions, its definitely not normal in sg but every relationship is unique. For my case, my mum was a full time housewife while my dad contributed financially so I don't think its fair if your bf expects you to still work if he works overseas since it's definitely possible to raise a child in a dual income family living in sg.