Death of King Bhumibol felt throughout Southeast Asia - Najib

Najib, who was paying tribute to the late King Bhumibol in Grand Palace today, said he had also wanted a close relatioship between Malaysia and Thailand.

"The loss of King Bhumibol is not only felt by the Thai people but he was a king who wanted closer ties between Malaysia and Thailand besides wanting the Southeast Asian region to be more prosperous and peaceful," he told the Malaysian media today.

According to him, King Bhumibol, who sat on the throne for seven decades, was loved by the Thai people and was very close to their hearts.

The Prime Minister and wife, Datin Seri Rosmah Mansor earlier placed a wreath and signed a condolence book at the Grand Palace, here today.

Najib said he was present at the Grand Palace to pay his last respects to King Bhumibol on behalf of the people and government of Malaysia and conveyed condolences.

"Today I can see the manifestation of that love in which thousands of Thailand nationals have been queuing in the hot weather with some kneeling for hours on the road but they wanted to show their love for King Bhumibol," he said.

The Prime Minister and wife, who arrived here yesterday, are expected to depart for home this evening.

The late King Bhumibol died on Oct 13 at 3.52 pm in Siriraj Hospital after several years of illness.