Arun Boonchom elected as new Sheikhul Islam in Thailand

Bangkok‘s Islamic Affairs Committee President, Arun Boonchom, made his mark as the newly elected 19th Sheikhul Islam, or Chularajmontri, in Thailand.

Arun’s appointment as the spiritual leader of the nation’s Muslim community follows the passing of Aziz Phitakkumpon in the previous month.

The decisive vote took place at the National Administration Centre for Islamic Affairs, located in the Nong Chok district, under the supervision of Deputy Interior Minister Chada Thaiseth yesterday. The competition for the esteemed position included Prasarn Sricharoen, deputy chairman of a specialist panel at the Sheikhul Islam Office, and Wisoot Binlateh, an imam at Ban Nuea mosque in Songkhla.

Arun, however, emerged victorious, securing the backing of 471 out of a total of 724 voters. These voters represented Islamic committees spanning 40 provinces across the country. Following this, the Interior Ministry will present the elected Sheikhul Islam’s name for royal endorsement.

As for his educational background, Arun holds a bachelor’s degree in Islamic studies from the Islamic University of Madinah in Saudi Arabia. Additionally, he completed another bachelor’s degree in international relations from Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University in Thailand.

Prior to his current role, the newly elected Islamic Affairs Committee president served as the deputy president of the Central Islamic Council of Thailand. He also held the position of chairman of a specialist panel at the Sheikhul Islam Office and was the vice-president of the Islamic Teacher Relations Association of Thailand under royal patronage, reported Bangkok Post.

Thus, Arun Boonchom embarks on his journey as the 19th Chularajmontri, ready to guide Thailand’s Muslim community with his wealth of knowledge and experience.

In related news, Thailand is projected to emerge as a principal destination for international Muslim tourists within the next half-decade. The Deputy Government Spokesperson, Rachada Dhnadirek, put forth this intent to lure more Muslim travellers, citing their rising numbers and increased spending capacity. Read more about this story HERE.