Australian National Rugby League (N.R.L.) star Jarome Luai will join the likes of Wallabies prop Scott Sio and All Black Sa’u Patrick Tuipulotu as ambassadors for the Samoa Tourism Authority.

The 23-year-old rugby league player, who currently plays for the Penrith Panthers in the N.R.L. debuted for Samoa in 2017 against Mate Ma'a Tonga, and in 2019 he was part of Samoan team in the N.R.L. Nines tournament.

In a statement issued by the S.T.A. the N.R.L. star said he is elated to be picked as an S.T.A. ambassador to promote tourism in the country and it was an honour.

His ties to his Samoan heritage is through his paternal grandparents who are both from Palauli while adding that the rich Samoan culture has played an influential role in his life.

Both Jarome and his family are proud that he has been handpicked to help promote the beautiful island nation to Australians in the lead-up to a Pacific Travel bubble opening which is yet to be confirmed, added the S.T.A. statement.

S.T.A Chief Executive Officer, Faamatuainu Lenata’i Suifua, said they are excited that the NRL player had agreed to take on the role and they are looking forward to working with him.

“We’re thrilled and very excited to welcome son of Samoa, Jarome Luai to our family of Ambassadors and we look forward to working with the NRL star in promoting Samoa as a must-visit Pacific destination to the key Australian market," he said.

Jarome last visited Samoa in 2017 and he said he is keen to start promoting Samoa's culture as well as untouched landscapes and beaches.

“It is such a wonderful country. I went back to Samoa in 2017 and it was even more beautiful than I expected," he said.

"I'm really passionate about encouraging Australians to visit the island nation and explore Samoa's rich culture, friendly locals, untouched landscapes and stunning beaches.

"It's the perfect place for a secluded getaway, which is what we'll all be looking for in a post-COVID-19 world. Plus, it's only a short plane trip away. I can't wait to get back home with my parents when it's safe to do so."

Samoa has been hailed as a safe haven for future international travel, having recorded zero local cases of COVID-19 to date unlike many of its Pacific neighbours.