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Published on December 31, 2007

Of 8,367 respondents, 71.12 per cent said they were most happy about the King's full recovery when asked what was their happiest moment during the past year.

On October 13, His Majesty was admitted to Siriraj Hospital with weakness on his right side and pain in his right ribcage. The treatment lasted nearly a month during which more than a million people headed to the hospital to sign well-wishing messages for the revered monarch. Many camped out at the hospital to show moral support for the King.

When His Majesty left the hospital on November 7, the country rejoiced. For most Thais, according to the survey, nothing made them happier than the King's full recovery.

The survey said 20.89 per cent were most happy about the holding of general elections this month, and that the country was on track to return to democracy. The rest said they were most happy about the existing peace in the country.

Conducted between December 10 and December 30, the survey also found "Bird" Thongchai McIntyre was the favourite male singer while "Da" Endorphin was the favourite female singer. Among look-thung singers, Mike Piromporn and "Tai" Oratai led in the male and female categories, respectively.

According to the survey, the best-loved actor was "Ken" Theeradej Wongpuapan, and the best-loved actress was "Pancake" Khemanij Jamikorn.

In sports, football star "Leesaw" Teerathep Winothai emerged as the most popular sportsman while volleyball player Pluemjit Thinkhao was the most popular sportswoman.

Of all the politicians, 47.53 per cent favoured ousted premier Thaksin Shinawatra, while 43.28 per cent admired Democrat Party leader Abhisit Vejjajiva. About 9 per cent named Chuan Leekpai of the Democrat Party as their favourite.

When asked about their favourite female politicians, 45.95 per cent named Pavena Hongsakul. Others mentioned Khunying Sudarat Keyuraphan, and Janista Liewchalermwong, who lost in the recent election. Pavena and Sudarat have been banned from running in an election for five years.

On their expectations for the country, respondents said they hoped the new year would bring peace, an end to unrest in the deep South, a better economy, good leader and good government.