Minister of Public Enterprises, Leatiniu Wayne Fong has apologised online following the viral video of him taking a selfie with King Charles III and Queen Camilla igniting mixed reactions online.

The video captures a brief but candid moment where King Charles and Queen Camilla patiently wait as Minister Fong attempts to activate his selfie camera for a photo opportunity. 

The footage spread rapidly across social media and includes a brief appearance by Samoa’s Prime Minister, Fiame Naomi Mata’afa, who appears to observe the moment with a disapproving glance, prompting one commenter to write, “If looks could kill.”

In response, Minister Fong publicly apologised on social media, acknowledging the unintended reactions caused by his gesture. 

“OK, I apologised for the selfie [sic], at the time I thought it was the opportunity of a lifetime with the King, but I guess it’s not... Fa’amalulu atu ai, ua sasi foi ,” he wrote.

Many sympathised with the Minister’s apology, with one supporter commenting, “All the best on hosting to you honourable minister, God bless, love you.”

Meanwhile, the Royal Family’s official page says there is no strict code of behaviour when meeting members of the Royal Family, though many opt for a bow or curtsy.