Last Updated: May 2026
Planning Your Malaysia Trip Around Holidays
Malaysia is a multicultural country with diverse religious and cultural celebrations throughout the year. Understanding the public holiday calendar helps you plan your Malaysia visit, as holidays may affect business hours, attraction operations, and travel dynamics.
Whether you want to experience vibrant festive celebrations or prefer quieter travel periods, this calendar guides your Malaysia trip planning for 2026. Note that Malaysia observes both federal public holidays and state-specific holidays that vary by region.
2026 Holiday Overview
11
Federal Public Holidays
2-4
State-Specific Holidays
5
Major Festive Seasons
Federal Public Holidays 2026
New Year's Day
Friday, January 1
Celebration marking the start of the calendar year
Federal Territory Day
Monday, February 2
Celebrates the establishment of Federal Territories (Kuala Lumpur, Labuan, Putrajaya)
Chinese New Year
Wednesday, February 11
Major celebration for Chinese community; typically 2-day celebration (Feb 11-12)
Chinese New Year (Day 2)
Thursday, February 12
Second day of Chinese New Year celebration
Nuzul Al-Quran
Tuesday, April 14
Islamic festival marking the revelation of the Quran; varies based on lunar calendar
Labour Day
Friday, May 1
International workers' day celebration
Vesak Day
Saturday, May 23
Buddhist festival celebrating Buddha's birthday and enlightenment
Agong's Birthday
Thursday, June 4
Celebrates the birthday of Malaysia's Constitutional Monarch
Hari Raya Aidilfitri
Saturday, July 4
Islamic festival marking the end of Ramadan; typically 2-day celebration (July 4-5)
Hari Raya Aidilfitri (Day 2)
Sunday, July 5
Second day of Hari Raya Aidilfitri celebration
National Day (Merdeka Day)
Wednesday, August 31
Celebrates Malaysia's independence from British rule in 1957
Malaysia Day
Wednesday, September 16
Celebrates the formation of Malaysia in 1963
Awal Muharram
Wednesday, September 16
Islamic New Year (2nd day); first day of Islamic calendar
Prophet Muhammad's Birthday
Friday, November 13
Islamic celebration of Mawlid an-Nabi
Christmas Day
Thursday, December 25
Christian and secular celebration; major festive season for shopping and festivities
Important Holiday Notes
Islamic Holidays - Lunar Calendar
Islamic holidays including Nuzul Al-Quran, Hari Raya Aidilfitri, and Prophet Muhammad's Birthday are based on the Islamic lunar calendar and may vary by 1-2 days depending on official moon sighting. The dates shown above are estimated and subject to confirmation.
State-Specific Holidays
In addition to federal holidays, individual states observe additional holidays specific to their regions. Examples include:
- • Johor: Sultan's birthday (varies by year)
- • Kedah, Kelantan, Terengganu, Perlis: Sultan's birthdays
- • Penang: Penang Governor's birthday
- • Sabah & Sarawak: State-specific holidays including Gawai Dayak, Kaamatan
Replacement Holidays
If a public holiday falls on Sunday, the following Monday is often declared a replacement holiday to give workers a full day off.
How Holidays Affect Your Travel
Advantages of Holiday Travel
- ✓Experience Festivals: Witness vibrant celebrations, traditional performances, and cultural festivities across Malaysia
- ✓Special Events: Holiday-specific markets, food festivals, and celebrations enhance the travel experience
- ✓Authentic Culture: Experience Malaysian traditions and customs firsthand during celebrations
Considerations for Holiday Travel
- ⚠Crowded Attractions: Popular destinations may experience higher visitor volumes during major holidays
- ⚠Higher Prices: Accommodation, flights, and some services may have premium pricing during peak holiday periods
- ⚠Limited Services: Some businesses, government offices, and tourist services may have reduced hours or be closed
- ⚠Increased Traffic: Road congestion may occur as Malaysians travel for holiday celebrations
- ⚠Advance Booking: Accommodation and flights should be booked well in advance during major holiday periods
Major Festive Seasons in Malaysia
🧧 Chinese New Year (Feb 11-12)
Malaysia's Chinese community celebrates with lion dances, fireworks, reunions, and festive meals. Major celebrations occur in Kuala Lumpur, Penang, and Petaling Jaya.
Peak Period: Late January - Mid February
🌙 Hari Raya Aidilfitri (July 4-5)
Malaysia's largest celebration marks the end of Ramadan. Expect festive decorations, traditional food, open houses, and vibrant street celebrations across the country.
Peak Period: Late June - Mid July
🎄 Christmas & Year-End (Dec 25+)
Malaysia's year-end festive season features Christmas celebrations, New Year preparations, and holiday shopping. Malls and attractions are heavily decorated.
Peak Period: November - December
🏯 Vesak Day & Deepavali (May & Oct/Nov)
Buddhist temples celebrate Vesak Day with religious ceremonies and light displays. Deepavali, the festival of lights, brings vibrant celebrations to Hindu communities.
Peak Periods: May, October-November
Plan Your Malaysia Holiday Trip
Experience Malaysia's diverse celebrations with proper visa documentation. Apply for your Malaysia eVisa now to ensure you're ready for your holiday adventure during any festive season throughout 2026.
Holiday Travel Tips for Malaysia
📅 Book Early
Reserve flights, accommodation, and attractions 2-3 months before major holidays to secure better rates and availability.
🎟️ Check Operating Hours
Holiday hours may differ for tourist attractions, restaurants, and businesses. Confirm operating hours before visiting.
🚗 Plan Transportation
Expect increased traffic and longer travel times during holidays. Plan your routes accordingly and allow extra time.
💰 Budget for Higher Costs
Prices for hotels, meals, and attractions often increase during peak holiday periods. Budget accordingly.
📝 Get Your Visa Early
Apply for your Malaysia eVisa and MDAC well in advance to avoid last-minute processing delays during peak holiday periods.
🙏 Respect Customs
During religious holidays, respect local customs and dress codes. Participate respectfully in cultural celebrations you encounter.
Questions About Holiday Travel?
Need help planning your Malaysia trip around holidays?
Email: support@malaysiavisa.my
Response Time: Within 24 business hours
Available: Monday - Friday, 9 AM - 6 PM Malaysia Time
Plan Your Malaysia Holiday Adventure
Experience Malaysia's vibrant celebrations and festive seasons. Apply for your eVisa today and create unforgettable holiday memories.