On June 18, 2024, Thailand's Senate approved a landmark marriage equality bill, making Thailand the first ASEAN country to legalise same-sex marriage. This progressive move marks a significant advancement in LGBTQ+ rights in the region. Despite Thailand's leadership, Southeast Asia remains largely hostile towards SOGI minorities, with many countries enforcing laws that criminalise non-hetero-cis identities. The article highlights the historical and political context influence of these laws that shows the role that colonial legacies and contemporary Western influences have in the life of queer people in the region. It also underscores the urgent need for broader regional reforms and the potential for Thailand to inspire similar advancements in neighbouring countries.