Malaysian Calendar 2025: List of Public Holidays, Regional Observances, and Religious Festivals

Full List of Malaysia's Public Holidays And School Breaks for 2025

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Overview of Holidays in Malaysia 2025

Malaysia is a melting pot of cultures and traditions, reflected in its diverse holidays. The 2025 calendar features a mix of national public holidays, state-specific celebrations, unofficial observances, and religious festivals. Each day commemorates Malaysia's multicultural identity, from Islamic, Buddhist, and Christian festivals to state events and historic milestones. These holidays not only unite communities but also highlight the importance of mutual respect and heritage.

Public holidays are spread throughout the year, including significant events such as Hari Raya Aidilfitri, Chinese New Year, and Deepavali. Regional holidays like George Town World Heritage Day add a local flavor, while observances such as Mother’s Day and Earth Day remind citizens of broader global themes. Schools, offices, and financial markets typically adhere to public holiday schedules, while retail outlets often remain open, especially during festivals.

In 2025, these holidays offer opportunities for family bonding, cultural exchanges, and festivities, making Malaysia a vibrant and celebratory nation.

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Malaysia Calendar 2025 - List of Public Holidays and Observances

Malaysia Calendar 2025 with A List of Public Holidays and Long Weekends

1. Chinese New Year

• Date: January 29–30 (Wednesday–Thursday)
• Location: Nationwide
• History: Celebrates the start of the Lunar New Year, rooted in ancient Chinese traditions.
• Significance: Symbolizes renewal, family unity, and prosperity.
• Activities:
  • Reunion dinners featuring symbolic dishes like dumplings and fish.
  • Lion and dragon dances to bring good luck.
  • Giving angpow (red envelopes) and visiting relatives.
• Closures: Schools, offices, and financial markets close. Retail stores typically remain open.
• Long Weekend Tip: Take leave on January 31 (Friday) for a 5-day weekend, including Federal Territory Day (February 1).

2. Federal Territory Day

• Date: February 1 (Saturday)
• Location: Kuala Lumpur, Putrajaya, Labuan
• History: Marks the establishment of these areas as federal territories.
• Significance: Highlights the administrative and economic importance of the territories.
• Activities:
  • Community parades and sports events.
  • Cultural performances and exhibitions.
• Closures: Schools and government offices in Kuala Lumpur, Putrajaya, and Labuan close. Retail and markets remain operational.

3. Thaipusam

• Date: February 11 (Tuesday)
• Location: Celebrated widely in Johor, Kuala Lumpur, Negeri Sembilan, Penang, Perak, Putrajaya, and Selangor.
• History: Hindu festival honoring Lord Murugan. Devotees seek blessings and fulfill vows.
• Significance: Represents faith, penance, and devotion.
• Activities:
  • Kavadi processions and prayers.
  • Rituals at Batu Caves, a major pilgrimage site.
• Closures: State-specific; schools and offices in key states close. Retail remains open.
• Long Weekend Tip: Take leave on February 10 (Monday) for a 4-day weekend.

4. Nuzul Al-Quran

• Date: March 18 (Tuesday)
• Location: Celebrated in all states except Johor, Kedah, Melaka, Negeri Sembilan, Sabah, and Sarawak.
• History: Commemorates the revelation of the Quran to Prophet Muhammad.
• Significance: A spiritual day for reflection and prayer.
• Activities: Special sermons and Quran recitations at mosques.
• Closures: Schools and government offices in observant states close.
• Long Weekend Tip: Take leave on March 17 (Monday) for a 4-day weekend.

5. Hari Raya Aidilfitri (Eid al-Fitr)

• Date: March 31–April 1 (Monday–Tuesday)
• Location: Nationwide
• History: Celebrates the end of Ramadan, the Islamic holy month of fasting.
• Significance: A time for gratitude, forgiveness, and family.
• Activities:
  • Balik kampung (returning to hometowns).
  • Open houses featuring traditional Malay dishes.
  • Eid prayers at mosques.
• Closures: Schools, offices, and financial markets close. Retail outlets may operate reduced hours.
• Long Weekend Tip: Enjoy a natural 4-day break with March 29–30 (Saturday–Sunday).

6. Good Friday

• Date: April 18 (Friday)
• Location: Sabah and Sarawak
• History: Commemorates the crucifixion of Jesus Christ.
• Significance: A day of prayer and reflection for Christians.
• Activities: Church services and community prayers.
• Closures: Schools and offices in Sabah and Sarawak close.

7. Labour Day

• Date: May 1 (Thursday)
• Significance: Honors workers and labor rights.
• Activities: Parades, rallies, and labor-related programs.
• Closures: Schools, offices, and financial markets close.
• Long Weekend Tip: Take leave on May 2 (Friday) for a 4-day weekend.

8. Wesak Day

• Date: May 12 (Monday)
• Location: Nationwide
• History: Celebrates the birth, enlightenment, and death of Buddha.
• Significance: A day for reflection and acts of kindness.
• Activities:
  • Offering prayers and alms.
  • Lighting candles and releasing birds.
• Closures: Schools, offices, and financial markets close.

9. Merdeka Day (Independence Day)

• Date: September 1 (Monday, replacement holiday for August 31)
• Location: Nationwide
• History: Marks Malaysia’s independence from British rule in 1957.
• Significance: A day of unity and national pride.
• Activities: Parades, flag-raising ceremonies, and patriotic events.
• Closures: Schools, offices, and financial markets close.

10. Deepavali (Festival of Lights)

• Date: October 20 (Monday)
• Location: Nationwide (except Sarawak)
• History: Celebrates the victory of light over darkness.
• Significance: A time for spiritual renewal and family unity.
• Activities:
  • Decorating homes with oil lamps and rangoli art.
  • Temple visits and prayers.
  • Sharing festive foods like laddu and murukku.
• Closures: Schools, offices, and financial markets close.

11. Christmas

• Date: December 25 (Thursday)
• Location: Nationwide
• History: Commemorates the birth of Jesus Christ.
• Significance: A time for giving, family, and joy.
• Activities:
  • Church services and caroling.
  • Decorating Christmas trees and gift exchanges.
• Closures: Schools, offices, and financial markets close.
• Long Weekend Tip: Take leave on December 26 (Friday) for a 4-day weekend.

Regional Holidays

• George Town World Heritage Day (Penang): July 7, commemorating Penang’s cultural heritage.
• Sultan’s Birthdays: Vary by state; mark the birthdays of respective rulers.
• Harvest Festival (Sabah): May 30–31, celebrating the Kadazan-Dusun community’s harvest.

Conclusion

Malaysia’s 2025 calendar reflects its unique cultural blend, offering a rich tapestry of public holidays, state-specific celebrations, and religious festivals. These occasions not only provide time off for relaxation but also foster unity, respect, and cultural understanding among its people. The calendar underscores the importance of preserving traditions while embracing modernity.

FAQs

1. Are all public holidays nationwide in Malaysia?

   No, some holidays are state-specific, such as Sultan’s Birthday and regional observances like George Town World Heritage Day.

2. Do markets and retail outlets close on public holidays?

   Markets usually close on major holidays like Hari Raya and Chinese New Year, but retail outlets often remain open.

3. How do schools and offices handle holidays?

   Schools and offices close on national and state-specific holidays. Unofficial observances like Earth Day typically do not warrant closures.

4. Are religious festivals public holidays for all?

   Most major religious festivals like Deepavali and Christmas are public holidays nationwide, with some exceptions like Deepavali in Sarawak.

5. Can tourists participate in local festivals?

   Absolutely! Many festivals, like Chinese New Year and Hari Raya, welcome participation from locals and tourists alike.

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