M

embers of the Thai community in Indonesia celebrated Friday evening the 82nd birthday of Thai King Bhumibol Adulyadej with great joy at the Hotel InterContinental in Jakarta.

Thai Ambassador to Indonesia Akrasid Amatayakul personally received all the guests in the traditional Thai way. Every guest was given a beautiful orchid at the entrance.

"The Thai way of welcoming guests is unique," one European diplomat said.

King Bhumibol was born on Dec. 5, 1927, and remains the longest-reigning monarch in the world. He is presently undergoing medical treatment for respiratory problems.

In his speech, Ambassador Akrasid explained the king's popularity in Thailand.

"King Bhumibol is the most popular figure in Thailand. Let's pray for our king's health and happiness," Akrasid said.

King Bhumibol visited Indonesia in February 1960 at the invitation of then president Sukarno. Almost all Indonesian presidents, including President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono, have since visited Thailand and met with King Bhumibol.

The special guest at Friday's festivity was none other than Indonesian Foreign Minister Marty Natalegawa.

Several ambassadors had a rare opportunity to meet and talk freely with the new minister.

Presidential spokesman Dino Patti Djalal, several senior government officials, businesspeople, lawmakers, friends of Thailand and scores of diplomats also attended the colorful celebration.

Special Thai delicacies and drinks were served at the reception.

Commenting on growing bilateral ties between Indonesia and Thailand, Akrasid said both countries had seen "robust and steady" growth.