Oct 23, 2009, 11:25 GMT
Thailand's King Bhumibol appeared in public for the first time since he was hospitalised last month today (23.10.09).
The 81-year-old monarch waved to the public as his bodyguards pushed his electric wheelchair into a roped-off area of Bangkok's Siriraj Hospital, where the king has been fighting an undisclosed illness since September 19.
Wearing a light-blue shirt and looking alert and healthy, Bhumibol placed floral garlands on the hospital's statues of his late parents before returning to his private room.
His appearance sparked widespread relief throughout the Asian nation, where the monarchy is revered.
During his short public appearance, hundreds of well-wishers shouted "Long live the king!" and knelt down to pray.
One tearful subject gushed: "I am so happy our royal father is better. I hope he leaves the hospital soon because Thailand needs him."
Meanwhile, the Bureau of the Royal Household has announced it will no longer issue daily updates on the king's condition.
A statement said: "His Majesty has regained more strength. He is able to partake of his meals and can sleep well. He will continue with a course of antibiotics and a nutrition programme."
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