December 29, 2025 | 11:37 pm
TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - On any given day, Malaysia is never anything less than an exciting destination. With cultural richness and diverse attractions at every turn, the country elevates any itinerary even further when the Malaysia public holiday 2026 arrives.
From Chinese New Year to Hari Raya Aidilfitri and Merdeka Day, these special dates offer an unforgettable opportunity to experience Malaysia's unique character through vibrant celebrations, time-honored traditions, and festive gatherings. However, busier crowds and higher travel costs often accompany them.
To help you plan and minimize those drawbacks, here’s a complete list of dates and a practical guide to Malaysia's public holidays 2026.
Malaysia Public Holiday 2026
As highlighted by Trip.com and the official website of the Government of Malaysia, Malaysia's 2026 public holidays feature a blend of religious, cultural, and national celebrations. Each represents a unique aspect of the country's multicultural identity. These celebrations bring communities closer together and invite global visitors to join the festivities.
Disclaimer: The dates listed below apply only to nationwide public holidays, which may shift depending on further official announcements.
- January 1: New Year’s Day
- February 17–18: Chinese New Year
- March 21–22: Hari Raya Aidilfitri
- May 1: Labour Day
- May 27–28: Hari Raya Haji
- May 31: Wesak Day
- June 6: Agong’s Birthday
- June 16: First Muharram
- June 26–27: Hari Raya Haji
- August 31: Merdeka Day
- September 16: Malaysia Day
- November 8: Deepvali
- December 25: Christmas Day
Malaysia Travel Tips 2026
As appealing as these celebrations may seem to visitors, they also present challenges when it comes to securing a seamless trip. To keep your plans on track, here are some cultural highlights and smart travel tips for exploring Malaysia in 2026.
Cultural Highlights
Culturally rich, Malaysia in 2026 features several public holidays closely tied to its unique national identity. Even for its minority population, the Chinese, the celebration of the Chinese New Year transforms cities and towns across the country with vibrant decorations and festive events. During this time of year, visitors are welcomed by lively lion dance performances, streets adorned with red lanterns, and dazzling fireworks that light up the night sky.
Just a month later, Muslims across Malaysia welcome their own major celebration as Hari Raya Aidilfitri arrives. Marking the end of Ramadan, the festival is deeply rooted in the values of forgiveness and togetherness, accompanied by the long-standing traditions of returning to one’s hometown and hosting open houses with family and friends. As Islam is Malaysia’s official religion, travel demand surges during this period, with crowds swelling and flight and accommodation prices rising significantly.
As the calendar moves into the middle months of the year, Merdeka Day emerges as Malaysia’s grandest celebration. From large-scale parades to fireworks and stirring cultural performances, it delivers a captivating display of patriotism.
Travel Smart in Malaysia 2026
Just like any major holiday destination, planning for a trip to Malaysia allows you to experience what smart travel truly looks like. This includes booking flights and accommodations well in advance and familiarizing yourself with transportation options.
As you plan, it’s just as essential to curate an itinerary that goes beyond famous hotspots to include lesser-known, hidden gems. This approach may lead you to enjoy a slower pace of travel while uncovering a more authentic side of Malaysia. It also serves as a great alternative when popular attractions become overcrowded during peak holiday periods.
If avoiding large crowds is a priority, traveling early in the morning, during the middle of the week, or on the holiday itself can make a big difference. Pairing this with accommodations located near major attractions can help you maximize your time and reduce unnecessary commuting.
When getting around, using Grab is often the most effortless option for short trips within cities. However, if you prefer public transportation or renting a vehicle, navigation apps like Google Maps or Waze can be invaluable for finding the best routes.
Lastly, it’s wise to carry some cash and double-check opening hours in advance, especially during public holidays, to ensure your plans run smoothly and you don’t miss out on key experiences.
Read: Malaysian Tourists Flock to Whoosh for Year-End Holidays in West Java
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