The Thai community in Sydney showed strong enthusiasm in exercising their overseas voting rights, encouraging fellow Thais to use their votes to bring about change in the country. Meanwhile, the Election Commission praised the election process for being orderly.
The atmosphere at the overseas election and referendum held at the mobile polling station at Metro Hotel Marlow Sydney, in the heart of Australia’s Thai Town, on the 2nd was lively. Mr. Naruchai Ninnat, Consul-General in Sydney, Mr. Anan Suwanrat, Election Commissioner, and their team, along with Mr. Bancha Yuenyongjongjaroen, Deputy Director-General of the Department of Consular Affairs, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, visited to inspect and closely monitor the operations.
Mr. Naruchai Ninnat, Consul-General in Sydney, told Thairath reporter Natthaphan Trimek that 15,164 Thais in Australia had registered for early voting in Sydney, with about 7,700 expected to vote at polling stations, roughly half of the total with the remainder voting by mail. The number registered for the referendum was 10,829, with 5,844 casting ballots at polling stations—the highest number worldwide.
The election process proceeded smoothly with no major complaints. Some voters were unable to participate in the referendum because they registered late or failed to register, but these cases were explained and clarified. Security was coordinated with Sydney police officers who helped maintain order effectively. The Consul-General emphasized that although overseas, Thais should recognize the importance of voting and encouraged everyone to vote enthusiastically to demonstrate the power of Thais abroad and to shape the country’s future. Voting remains open until 26 January.
Mr. Anan Suwanrat, Election Commissioner, who came to inspect the election and referendum, praised the Thai community's enthusiasm and cooperation, especially commending the thorough preparations by the Consulate-General in Sydney, which facilitated voter convenience. The Election Commission will also verify postal voting later.
Thai voters who participated expressed that voting is a civic duty everyone must fulfill. Some viewed this election as especially important and urged all Thais to vote, emphasizing that every vote can lead to national change.
