Aroon Boonchom, president of Islamic Committee of Bangkok, was elected as the new Chularajmontri (Muslim spiritual leader) of Thailand on Wednesday, replacing Aziz Phithakkumpol who died in October.

Aroon will become the country’s 19th Sheikhul Islam or Grand Mufti, after his Royal appointment.

The election for the post was held at the National Administration Centre for Islamic Affairs Chalerm Phrakiat and chaired by Deputy Interior Minister Chada Thaised. The two other contenders for the post were Prasarn Sricharoen and Wisoot Binlatah.

Aroon holds two Bachelor degrees, in Islamic studies, from the Islam University in Saudi Arabia and on international relations, from the Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University in Thailand.

The Interior Ministry will soon forward his name for a Royal appointment, Chada said.