Rai, winner of the 2011 ISPS Handa Singapore Classic on Asian Tour, is five shots behind Gavin Green of Malaysia, who carded seven-under 65 for a one-shot lead over a five-man group, which shot 66 each.
Green, who blew a five-shot lead on home soil a fortnight ago, got off to a great start when he turned in 31 which included a six-foot eagle-three on the 18th hole. He traded four more birdies against two bogeys on his homeward nine to lead the chasing pack.
Defending champion James Byrne of Scotland, Danny Chia of Malaysia and Danthai Boonma of Thailand were a further shot back in tied seventh place at the Damai Indah Golf, BSD course.
