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

The 12-time winner will spearhead Asia's challenge at the Sentosa Golf Club in the co-sanctioned US$5 million event which has attracted five Major champions and 118 winners from the Asian Tour and European Tour.

Fresh from a week's break at home, the Thai former paratrooper 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^th in the world.

Thongchai has been in superb form this season with wins in Indonesia and Malaysia, followed by an impressive tied 13^th finish at the British Open in Scotland. He has earned US$869,872 this season and leads by US$475,000 from second-placed Anthony Kang of the US in the Order of Merit.

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 US$833,330.

"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. 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. If I win this tournament, you'll never know," he added.

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 the Thai is ready to rise to the challenge.

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

Singapore's Lam Chih Bing is also relishing a return to Sentosa, which sparked a career breakthrough last season. He brilliantly played his way into the final group on Sunday and although he eventually finished tied 18^th, the confidence gained saw him secure a maiden title on the Asian Tour several weeks later in Thailand.

"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.

"I got a little bit quick on my swing and did not focus enough on each shot. But a lot of good things have happened since the Singapore Open last year."