BANGKOK – Thai lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) activists celebrated another victory on April 2 after a marriage equality Bill overwhelmingly passed a first reading in the Upper House, a key step bringing Thailand closer to becoming Asia’s third territory to legalise same-sex unions.

“It’s like we’ve been embraced and accepted by the people in the entire country,” said Ms Waaddao Chumaporn, 40, an LGBT activist and spokesperson for the parliamentary committee for the Bill, calling it the “best gift of our lives”.

“It sends a signal to the South-east Asian region, where the fundamentals are deeply rooted in conservative views.”

The Bill sailed through the Senate’s first reading in a 147-4 vote, prior to second and third readings due in July. If approved, it will be sent to the royal palace for the King’s assent before it becomes law within 120 days.

Other activists on the committee pumped their fists and celebrated with each other after the vote.

In March, 96 per cent of the Lower House passed the Bill in a landmark move.

“We see that the needle has moved closer towards our goal,” said Ms Siritata Ninlapruek, 45, who waved a rainbow flag, exulting as the vote count was read. REUTERS