Phuket Musician Nene Royal Receives Government Support Ahead of Next America’s Got Talent Round

Teenage musician Rattikan "Nene Royal" Amlai from Phuket has received official recognition from the Thai government as she prepares to compete in the next round of America's Got Talent (AGT).

On the morning of July 14, Thailand's Minister of Tourism and Sports, Surasak Phancharoenworakul, introduced the young performer to Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul during a meeting at Government House in Bangkok.

The gathering highlighted the government's intention to support talented young Thais who are gaining international recognition while also promoting Thailand's image abroad through the Amazing Thailand tourism campaign.

During the meeting, the Prime Minister congratulated Nene on her success and presented her with an Amazing Thailand commemorative pin and a selection of souvenirs as a gesture of encouragement before her return to the United States.

The visit also featured an informal musical moment. Anutin joined in singing the Thai rock classic Som Sarn by Loso, while Nene performed Zombie by The Cranberries, accompanying herself on guitar.

According to Minister Surasak, the initiative began after the Prime Minister watched a video of Nene's AGT audition on July 8 while travelling on official business in Malaysia. Impressed by her performance, Anutin instructed the Ministry of Tourism and Sports and the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) to provide practical assistance.

Government support will include funding travel expenses for Nene's upcoming appearance in the competition, as well as promotional campaigns encouraging international audiences—particularly viewers in the United States—to vote for the young Thai musician.

Officials said the government sees talented young people as important ambassadors who help strengthen Thailand's international reputation while inspiring future generations.

Nene thanked both the government and her supporters for their encouragement and invited fans to continue following her journey through her social media accounts on Facebook, YouTube, TikTok and Instagram under the name Nene Royal.

She is expected to return to the United States soon to compete in the next stage of America's Got Talent.