Congratulatory messages and praise have poured in after 16-year-old Thai guitarist and singer Nene Royal from Phuket won America’s Got Talent Season 21, with Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul leading the congratulations and praising her achievement as an example of the potential of Thai youth on the global stage.
Anutin, who is in New York attending the UN General Assembly, congratulated Nene on her victory and praised her talent, determination and perseverance throughout the competition.
Deputy government spokesperson Ploythalay Laksameesaengchan said the prime minister views Nene’s success as proof that Thai youth can achieve similar success on the world stage, particularly in the performing arts, if they are determined, willing to develop themselves and given opportunities.
Anutin said Nene had brought pride and fame to Thailand and impressed audiences and fans throughout the competition, from the audition and judges’ callback rounds through to the live quarter-finals, which secured her place in the finale.
The prime minister also sent his best wishes to Nene’s family, supporters and everyone involved in her success, while thanking her for showcasing the potential of Thai youth to the world through her music and stage performance.
Meanwhile, former prime minister and Democrat Party MP Chuan Leekpai also posted a video congratulating Nene on her historic victory.
Chuan said he wants to join Thais in congratulating Nene on her major achievement and praised her parents for laying a strong foundation for her success.
Chuan, who has been elected as an MP for Trang 18 times, said he had previously sent Nene a letter of congratulations and encouragement, noting that her father is from the province.
Chuan also praised Nene’s manners and politeness, particularly her traditional Thai wai, saying these qualities had impressed people around the world alongside her musical talent.
He credited Nene’s parents, teachers, supporters and others who had recognised her talent and helped her develop her abilities. He said her achievement showed the world that Thai people have talent and that Thais should take pride in the success of their compatriots on the international stage.
The Kajonkiet International School Phuket (KIS), where Nene studies, also celebrated her victory.
The school posted a message and photo reading, “YOU DID IT, CONGRATULATIONS, CHAMPION!”, saying its community is extremely proud of Nene for becoming the Season 21 champion.
The school also organised a live screening of the AGT finale this morning at its campus in Kathu, Phuket, where students, parents, teachers and staff gathered to cheer for Nene. Cheers and applause erupted when she was announced as the winner.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs joined the congratulations, posting a message saying: “The Ministry of Foreign Affairs would like to extend its warmest congratulations to Nene Royal, the first Thai person to win America’s Got Talent.”
The Ministry of Commerce also posted a congratulatory message, describing Nene’s victory as a historic achievement for Thailand.
Nene secured the title after performing the song ‘Seven Nation Army’ in the finale and later joining Linkin Park on stage for a performance of ‘The Emptiness Machine’.
