Also all of the US-based MAXs had the optional AoA Sensor Disagree indicator, which would instantly show the source of the issue. The international pilots were in the dark because Boeing turned a critical safety feature into a revenue stream.
Options are not all tied to fees, the process of ordering an airplane is quite complicated because of the immense amount of customization each airline does before they even pay for the aircraft. Its unclear how much this option cost, if it cost anything.
The reason why AoA indication is an option is that it requires more advanced training for the pilots, some airlines provide this training and some do not. The airlines are the ultimate decider on how much training pilots will get, Boeing and the FAA can only set minimums.