Being a multi-racial society, Malaysia celebrates a number of major
festivals, including the Hari Raya Puasa, Chinese New Year, Deepavali,
Thaipusam and Christmas. These festivals are usually celebrated
by all Malaysians, regardless of race or religion. This features
the Malaysian life as an atmosphere filled with friendliness, cordiality
and sincerity among the people.
| |
| 1 Jan [Tuesday] |
New Year's Day |
Celebrated by all Malaysians, usually observed
by spending time with family and friends |
| 10 Jan [Thursday] |
Maal Hijrah |
Celebrated on a moderate scale, it is a religious day by the
Muslims with gatherings in mosques and halls around the country
for special prayers. |
| 23 Jan [Wednesday] |
Thaipusam |
A spectacular festival, Thaipusam is a celebration of the
birthday of Lord Subramaniam. It is a day for prayers, penance
and rejoice, with devotees carrying "Kavadis' through Hindu
temples amidst chanting and drumming. |
| 1 Feb [Friday] |
Federal Territory |
A public holiday for the Kuala Lumpur & Labuan state. |
7 Feb
[Thursday] |
Chinese New Year |
Celebrated over a period of 15 days amongst the Chinese, it
is a joyous occasion marked by family reunions and giving of
red packets or 'ang pows' by parents to their children. |
20 Mar
[Thursday] |
Maulidur Rasul |
The birthday of the great Prophet Muhammed is an important
occasion in the Muslim calendar marked by special prayers and
sermons in mosques, processions and feasts. |
1 May
[Thursday] |
Labour Day |
An offical public holiday. |
19 May
[Monday] |
Vesak Day |
Celebrated by the Buddhist community with visits to the temple
for prayers. |
| 7 June [Saturday] |
Agong's Birthday |
An official public holiday celebrating the King's birthday. |
| *31 Aug [Sunday] |
National Day |
A celebration of Malaysia's independence. An official public
holiday for the entire nation with a colourful parade held in
Dataran Merdeka, Kuala Lumpur. |
1 - 2 Oct
[Wednesday &Thursday] |
Hari Raya Puasa |
Marks the end of Ramadan,the fasting month
and the beginning of a month of rejoicing and merrymaking for
the Muslims. |
| 28 Oct [Tuesday] |
Deepavali |
Observed by the Hindus, commemorates the triumph of light
over darkness and good over evil. Usually celebrated with visits
to family and friends. |
8 - 9 Dec
[Monday & Tuesday] |
Hari Raya Haji |
A celebration for Muslims who have performed the Haj or pilgrimage
to Mecca. |
| 25 Dec [Thursday] |
Christmas |
Celebrated by Christians with attendance
at church service and gatherings with family and friends. |
| 29 Dec [Monday] |
Maal Hijrah |
Celebrated on a moderate scale, it is a religious day by the
Muslims with gatherings in mosques and halls around the country
for special prayers. |
| *The following Monday will be a public holiday |
