Chinese New Year (January/ February)

This is a joyous time when friends and relatives give each other "angpows" - red packets with a gift of cash as a token of prosperity and celebrate with feasts and lion dances to ward off evil spirits and usher in the lunar new year. Family reunion dinners are a must among Chinese on the eve of the new year.


Malaysia Mega Sale Carnival (March, August and December)
Malaysia Mega Sale Carnival Three wonderful opportunities to satisfy your every indulgence in Malaysia's month-long shopping carnivals in Kuala Lumpur and other urban centres in the country. There's no better time to pick up that lovely gold bracelet, exquisite designer dress or state-of-the-art camera; fantastic discounts and unbelievable bargains are on offer at shopping centres, emporiums, retail outlets as well as exclusive boutiques. This is also the time when the various Malaysian States showcase their traditional arts and culture.


Food & Fruit Fiesta (July)
Food & Fruit FiestaMalaysia's favourite pastime has become a shared event nationwide. The seemingly endless variety and abundance of cuisine available in Malaysia, from exotic eastern feasts to elegant western dishes will simply amaze visitors. And the absolutely succulent range of fruits will dazzle and delight newcomers to the world of tropical fruits.

National DayNational Day (31 August)

The country celebrates it's independence on 31 August with parades and shows. Towns and cities throughout Malaysia will be gaily decorated and adorned with lights for the grand occasion.

Malaysia Fest (September)
For two weeks, all the major hotels and shopping complexes join forces to feature the culture, cuisine and handicrafts of the various states in Malaysia.


DeepavaliDeepavali (October/ November)
The "Festival of Lights" is a celebration which marks the triumph of good over evil. During this festival, Hindu homes are emblazoned with lights to symbolize this triumph.


Hari Raya Aidil FitriHari Raya Eid al-Fitri (November) is celebrated by Muslims after the month-long fasting of Ramadan. Muslims usher in the new year with prayers in the mosques followed by receiving well-wishers in their homes.


ChristmasChristmas (25 December) Celebrated by Christians similar to any other part of the world. Midnight services are held at churches on Christmas eve. Shopping centres, hotels, old folks homes and children's homes echo with beautiful carols. The revelry and yuletide spirit of Christmas is enjoyed by Christians and non-Christians alike.

Public Holidays (National) 2004
Malaysia celebrates 44 holidays a year, listed here are the most important:

Chinese New Year 22nd - 23rd January
Eid Al-Adha 1st February
Maal Hijrah 22nd February
Labour Day 1st May
Maulidur Rasul - (In Commemoration of the Birthday of Prophet Muhammad S.A.W) 2nd May
Wesak Day 3rd May
Birthday Celebration of SPB Yang di Pertuan Agong 5th June
National Day 31st August
Deepavali 11th November
Eid Al-Fitr 14th - 15th November
Christmas 25th December