Culture
The Rise of 'Mu-Te-Lu' Among Thailand's High-Ranking Officials
A recent report highlights the growing trend of spiritualism among Thailand's senior civil servants, reflecting a broader cultural phenomenon.
According to a report by Matichon Online published on September 21, 2026, there is a notable trend of high-ranking Thai government officials openly engaging in 'Mu-Te-Lu'—a colloquial term for spiritual practices, fortune-telling, and the seeking of supernatural blessings. The report suggests that these practices have become increasingly visible within the upper echelons of the bureaucracy.
For residents and expatriates in Thailand, this highlights the deep-seated integration of traditional spiritual beliefs into modern professional and public life. While Thailand is a modernizing nation, the influence of animism, astrology, and merit-making remains a significant cultural undercurrent that shapes decision-making and social dynamics at the highest levels of authority.
It is important to note that while the report identifies this as a current trend among specific officials, the extent to which these personal spiritual beliefs influence official government policy or administrative outcomes remains a matter of public discussion rather than established fact. Observers continue to monitor how these traditional practices intersect with the secular responsibilities of state governance. Travelers may find this cultural aspect fascinating, as it underscores the unique blend of tradition and modernity that defines contemporary Thai society.
