Malaysia public holidays in 2026 and 2027 — what travellers need to know

Malaysia combines Muslim, Chinese, Hindu and Buddhist holidays. Travellers need to check both federal and state calendars, while school breaks can raise prices and crowd popular attractions.

Key takeaway: It is worth visiting for the events and local atmosphere if you accept crowds and early reservations.

Public-holiday calendar for 2026 and 2027

Calendar coverage: The 2026 calendar covers verified federal days off. State holidays require a separate check; we do not publish 2027 without a comparable official source.

2026

DateDayHolidayNotes
17 February – 18 FebruaryTuesdayChinese New Yearmulti-day holiday
21 March – 22 MarchSaturdayEid al-Fitrmulti-day holiday
1 MayFridayLabour Day
27 MayWednesdayEid al-Adha
31 MaySundayVesak Day
1 JuneMondayBirthday of the King of Malaysia
2 JuneTuesdayVesak Day
17 JuneWednesdayIslamic New Year
25 AugustTuesdayMawlid
31 AugustMondayNational Day
16 SeptemberWednesdayMalaysia Day
8 NovemberSundayDeepavali
25 DecemberFridayChristmas Day

2027

The official calendar for this year has not yet been published. We do not fill the gap with predictions presented as confirmed dates.

Which periods affect travel most?

Hari Raya Aidilfitri

The two-day holiday after Ramadan triggers major family travel. Domestic flights, buses and roads can be much busier before and after the official days off.

Chinese New Year

Two days off bring family travel, events and altered business hours. The atmosphere is special in Chinese districts, but transport and rooms should be reserved early.

State differences and school holidays

Not every holiday applies nationwide. Official tourism guidance also warns that school breaks bring crowds and higher costs at popular attractions.

Shops, transport and attractions

  • Trains, buses, ferries and domestic flights may sell out faster; buy tickets ahead for the key holiday periods.
  • Government offices, banks and schools generally close; private businesses set their own hours.
  • State holidays and substitute days vary by region; check the state where you will stay or travel.

Local customs and etiquette

Respect local rules in homes and places of worship; shoes often need to be removed. Malaysia is multicultural, so customs and holiday opening patterns vary between communities and states.

How to plan your trip

  1. Reserve accommodation and key journeys earlier than usual.
  2. Before booking, check both the federal calendar and public holidays in the state you will visit.
  3. Two or three days before a visit, check the official hours of the attraction or operator.

Combine the calendar with the weather

Check the 14-day forecast, monthly climate and best time to visit Malaysia.

Malaysia weather

Sources and data coverage

The 2026 calendar covers verified federal days off. State holidays require a separate check; we do not publish 2027 without a comparable official source. Calendar data checked: 13 July 2026.

Travel-advice sources

Other holiday calendars for travellers

Frequently asked questions

Is it worth visiting Malaysia during public holidays?
It is worth visiting for the events and local atmosphere if you accept crowds and early reservations.
Do shops and public transport operate on holidays in Malaysia?
Trains, buses, ferries and domestic flights may sell out faster; buy tickets ahead for the key holiday periods. Government offices, banks and schools generally close; private businesses set their own hours. State holidays and substitute days vary by region; check the state where you will stay or travel.
Can religious holiday dates change?
Yes. Dates based on a lunar calendar may be confirmed or adjusted by the relevant authorities. We label such entries as estimates and recommend checking again before departure.