Public Holidays in Malaysia in 2024
Malaysia celebrates a diverse array of public holidays throughout the year, reflecting its multicultural society, religious traditions, and historical significance. These holidays are occasions for celebration, reflection, and community gatherings, with many businesses, government offices, and schools closed to mark these special days. Below is a comprehensive list and description of the public holidays in Malaysia for the year 2024.
New Year’s Day – January 1st
New Year’s Day is celebrated worldwide as the first day of the Gregorian calendar year. In Malaysia, it is a time for gatherings with family and friends, festive meals, and sometimes fireworks displays to welcome the new year with hope and optimism.
Chinese New Year – Date Varies (Lunar Calendar)
Chinese New Year, also known as Lunar New Year or Spring Festival, is the most important holiday for the Chinese community in Malaysia. It is celebrated with various traditional customs and rituals, including family reunions, feasting, dragon and lion dances, and the giving of red envelopes (ang pow) containing money for good luck and prosperity.
Thaipusam – Date Varies (Hindu Calendar)
Thaipusam is a Hindu festival celebrated by the Tamil community in Malaysia. It commemorates the victory of the Hindu god Murugan over the demon Soorapadman, and devotees mark the occasion with elaborate rituals, processions, and acts of devotion, including body piercing and carrying kavadi (ornate structures) as offerings to the deity.
Hari Raya Aidilfitri (Eid al-Fitr) – Date Varies (Islamic Calendar)
Hari Raya Aidilfitri, also known as Eid al-Fitr or the Festival of Breaking the Fast, marks the end of Ramadan, the Islamic holy month of fasting. It is celebrated with prayers, feasting, gift-giving, and acts of charity. In Malaysia, Muslims observe Hari Raya Aidilfitri with special prayers at mosques, family gatherings, and elaborate meals shared with loved ones.
Hari Raya Haji (Eid al-Adha) – Date Varies (Islamic Calendar)
Hari Raya Haji, also known as Eid al-Adha or the Festival of Sacrifice, commemorates the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to God. It is celebrated with prayers, the sacrifice of animals (usually sheep or goats), distribution of meat to the needy, and gatherings with family and friends. Hari Raya Haji is a time for reflection, gratitude, and solidarity within the Muslim community.
Awal Muharram (Maal Hijrah) – Date Varies (Islamic Calendar)
Awal Muharram, also known as Maal Hijrah or Islamic New Year, marks the beginning of the Islamic lunar calendar year. It is a time for spiritual reflection, renewal of faith, and resolutions for the year ahead. In Malaysia, Awal Muharram is observed with prayers, religious gatherings, and cultural traditions.
Thaipusam – February 3rd
Thaipusam is a Hindu festival celebrated by the Tamil community in Malaysia. It commemorates the victory of the Hindu god Murugan over the demon Soorapadman, and devotees mark the occasion with elaborate rituals, processions, and acts of devotion, including body piercing and carrying kavadi (ornate structures) as offerings to the deity.
Hari Hol (Hari Kebangsaan) – August 31st
Hari Hol, also known as Hari Kebangsaan or National Day, commemorates Malaysia’s independence from British colonial rule in 1957. It is one of the most significant national holidays in Malaysia, celebrated with patriotic ceremonies, flag hoisting, cultural performances, and fireworks displays. Hari Hol evokes a sense of pride and unity among Malaysians, celebrating their hard-fought freedom and sovereignty.
Deepavali (Diwali) – Date Varies (Hindu Calendar)
Deepavali, also known as Diwali or the Festival of Lights, is celebrated by the Hindu community in Malaysia. It signifies the victory of light over darkness and good over evil. Deepavali is observed with prayers, oil lamp lighting, colorful decorations, fireworks, and the exchange of sweets and gifts. It is a time for family gatherings, feasting, and joyous celebrations.
Christmas Day – December 25th
Christmas Day celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ and is observed by Christians worldwide. In Malaysia, Christmas is a joyous occasion marked by religious services, nativity scenes, carol singing, and festive meals shared with loved ones. Despite the tropical climate, Christmas in Malaysia is often characterized by traditional decorations and celebrations.
Conclusion
Malaysia celebrates a rich tapestry of public holidays throughout the year, each reflecting the country’s multicultural heritage, religious diversity, and national pride. These holidays serve as important occasions for Malaysians of all backgrounds to come together, celebrate their shared values, and honor their traditions. Whether commemorating independence, religious festivals, or cultural customs, public holidays in Malaysia play a significant role in fostering unity, understanding, and harmony among its people.
| Public Holiday | Date | Days Off | Groups Celebrating |
| New Year’s Day | January 1 | 1 | All |
| Chinese New Year | Varies | 2 | Chinese |
| Thaipusam | Varies | 1 | Hindus |
| Hari Raya Aidilfitri | Varies | 2-3 | Muslims |
| Hari Raya Haji | Varies | 1-2 | Muslims |
| Awal Muharram | Varies | 1 | Muslims |
| Thaipusam | February 3 | 1 | Hindus |
| Hari Hol (National Day) | August 31 | 1 | All |
| Deepavali | Varies | 1 | Hindus |
| Christmas Day | December 25 | 1 | Christians |