SINGAPORE - Thai star Thongchai Jaidee hopes a strong showing at the Barclays Singapore Open this week will help him wrap up an unprecedented third Asian Tour Order of Merit crown.

The 12-time Asian Tour winner spearheads the regional challenge at the Sentosa Golf Club in the co-sanctioned five million dollar event which has attracted a stellar line-up from the Asian Tour and European Tour.

Fresh from a week's break at home, Thongchai is on a mission and knows a good week will also help him achieve his goal of breaking into the world's top-50 which comes with exemptions into the Majors.

"It's a big field and it's very exciting for the Asian Tour as it is a big event for us. I'm trying to get better and will keep trying. It's an important week," said Thongchai, who is currently ranked 60 in the world.

The former paratrooper has been in superb form this season with wins in Indonesia and Malaysia, followed by an impressive tied 13th finish at the British Open in Scotland.

He has earned 869,872 US dollars this season and leads the merit race by 475,000 dollars from second-placed Anthony Kang.

The Thai ace knows he will have to be at the top of his game if he is to take the bumper first prize cheque of 833,330 dollars here.

"You never know who will win the tournament. All the players are very strong. If you win this week, you'll jump up the rankings," he said.

"I'll try my best and I think I have a good chance as well. There are big world ranking points here. Top-50 is a priority for me but it's not easy to achieve."

His title aspirations will be put to the test as he has been paired with world number two Phil Mickelson for the opening two rounds. But Thongchai is ready for the challenge.

"I've not played with Phil before. I always enjoy playing with any (top) player. I hope to enjoy a good week," he said.

Singapore's Lam Chih Bing is also relishing a return to Sentosa, which sparked a career breakthrough last season.

He played his way into the final group on Sunday and although he eventually finished tied 18th, the confidence gained saw him secure a maiden title on the Asian Tour several weeks later.

"I have been waiting for this week all year. I am playing alright and I'm hoping to peak at the right time," said Lam.

"I can pretty much remember every shot from last year. It was one of the best experiences I had last year playing with Phil (Mickelson) on the last day and I learned a lot from the last round, how to handle myself."