Come and celebrate with us our joyous festivals & carnivals, so numerous that every month of the year, there are several to choose from and we our joyous festivals. For vibrant Malaysia offers the rare experience of simultaneously enjoying the fascinating cultures of a multitude of peoples – the Malays, Chinese, Indians, Kadazans, Ibans, Portuguese – Eurasians and other ethnic groups. Distinctly unique, each culture preserves traditions handed down through the generations; yet all are quintessentially Malaysian.

And in the colourful and dazzling festivals and carnivals of Malaysia, the rich cultural diversity and heritage come alive to present an incomparable feast for the next senses! Experience more exciting sights, sounds and culinary delights for a sensational, unforgettable experience. Magnificient ethnic costumes, melodius strains from traditional musical instruments, scintillating dances, exotic arts and craft, and sumptuous feasting made Malaysian festivals and carnivals an enthralling experience. In sunny, harmonious, multi-racial Malaysia, everyone joins in the festivity, Malaysia prides itself in offering a most unique form of hospitality – ‘open houses’ – where friends and visitors are invited to join in the festive celebration and merry-making. 

Visit Malaysia, and join us in the celebration of our unique festivals and carnivals. So much of exotic Asia can be found in just one destination – Malaysia.

CHINESE NEW YEAR

Chinese New Year is celebrated over a 15-day period, beginning on the first day of the lunar calendar with boisterous festival, as gongs and cymbals clang and clash in accompaniment to lion dances performed throughout Malaysia. ‘Open Houses’ will hold for relatives and friends.

DEEPAVALI

For the Hindus, Deepavali or the Festival of Lights signifies the triumph of good over evil. Visit the ‘open houses’ to get a feeling of the celebration. 

COLOURS OF MALAYSIA

A month-long celebration of Malaysia’s many vibrant multi-racial cultures, arts and traditions with dance and music performances as well as food festivals and cultural exhibitions. A major highlight is the glittering parade in Kuala Lumpur, the capital city, involving a cast of thousands of Malaysians, young and old, showcasing the colourful costumes and dances of the various states of Malaysia. 

SARAWAK GAWAI FESTIVAL

This is generally the best time to visit Sarawak. The state of Sarawak almost comes to a standstill when the Ibans, the largest ethnic group in the state, and others such as the Orang Ulu and Bidayuh celebrate the padi harvesting season, or Gawai. Relatives and friends are treated to tuak (rice wine) and traditional delicacies. There is music and dancing, and many take the opportunity to show off their lovely ceremonial costumes during this fun-filled celebration. Visitors are treated to Tuak (rice wine) and traditional delicacies at ‘open houses’ in the longhouses. 

SABAH KAAMATAN FESTIVAL

The best time to visit Sabah the “Land Below The Wind” and experience this joyous occasion celebrated by the Kadazan dan Dusun communities. Traditionally a month-long harvest festival for Sabah’s Kadazan – Dusun and Murut groups to honour and thank the Rice Spirit. The Ka’amatan Festival is now celebrated by everyone. Merry-making, feasting, cultural dances, a host of folk games and crowning of the Harvest Queen gives much gaiety to the festival. Everyone has a grand time, with tapai (rice wine) drinking, dancing, buffalo racing and arm wrestling. The highlight of the celebration is the crowning of the harvest queen.

THAIPUSAM

Thousands of Hindu devotees and spectators throng the Batu Caves near Kuala Lumpur on Thaipusam Day. Amidst the Carnival-like atmosphere, devotees carry colourful ‘kavadis’ or decorated wooden arches on their shoulders in penance, thanksgiving or fulfillment of vows, and ascend the 272 steps to the shrine inside the cave. The night before, an elaborate procession makes its way from the Sri Maha Mariamman Temple in Kuala Lumpur to the Batu Caves. Similar celebrations take place in other towns with large Hindu communities.

MERDEKA CELEBRATIONS

Malaysia celebrates its independence annually on 31 August. It has become customary for people in Kuala Lumpur to gather at Dataran Merdeka (Independence Square) on the eve of Independence Day in front of the historic Sultan Abdul Samad Building for the countdown to midnight. A grand parade is held early the next morning, in which hundreds of Malaysians, representing the respective government departments or private organizations, march through the city’s main streets. 

SAN PEDRO FESTIVAL

A delightful cultural event held in Malacca by the Portuguese-Eurasian community to celebrate the birthday of Saint Peter the patron saint of fisherman. The fishing boats, which are colourfully decorated for the festival, are blessed and prayers offered for a better season. It is also an excellent opportunity to sample traditional Portuguese culinary delights and to enjoy the dances and music of the community.

HARI RAYA AIDILFITRI

Hari Raya Aidilfitri marks the end of Ramadhan, the fasting month, and is celebrated by Muslims on the first day of the month of Syawal. It is a day for joyous family reunions and ‘open houses’ for friends. His Majesty, the King of Malaysia, and Muslim government leaders also hold ‘open houses’ for the public at their official residences.

CHRISTMAS & NEW YEAR

Christians in Malaysia celebrate Christmas by decorating Christmas trees, giving of presents, attending church services and caroling. ‘Open houses’ are also held on Christmas Day, during which guests are treated to food and drinks.