Malaysia - Land of Festivals

Malaysia has a large number of festivals and events that happen year around reflecting Malaysia's multi-racial ethnic mix of Malays - descendants of the Bugis and Javanese, Chinese, Indians and others. Malaysia's multi-cultural population makes for a great variety of different festivals throughout the year. All the major religious events from each culture in the country are celebrated and there are also hundreds of other different events staged throughout the country from kite-flying to Formula One motor racing.

Most religious festivals are calculated on the lunar calendar and their dates change each year. The main Muslim festival of Hari Raya Haji, which marks the completion of each year's pilgrimage to Mecca takes place around November and Chinese New Year is celebrated in late January or February.

Often hotels are overbooked and transport services stretched so it's best to book accommodation in advance.

Chinese New Year
A celebration lasting for 15 days beginning from the first day of the Chinese lunar calendar. The Chinese community ushers in the new year with a joyful family reunion dinner, a visit to the temple to seek the blessings of the God of Prosperity and giving 'ang pow' or red packets containing money among relatives and well wishers.

Hari Raya Haji
Celebrated by the Muslims on the tenth day of the last month of the Muslim calendar, the conclusion of the pilgrimage in Mecca is marked by the Hari Raya Aidil Adha celebrations. Sacrifices of cattle or goats are made by Muslims to commemorate Prophet Abraham's test of faith by God when he was asked to sacrifice his son.

Thaipusam
Thaipusam is celebrated annually, in January or February. This day of penance and thanksgiving for Hindus begins with a grand procession of the magnificent silver chariot bearing the statue of Lord Subramaniam, the God of Prosperity. In an atmosphere electric with drumming and chanting, holy water is sprinkled on the deity's route and thousands of fresh coconuts are smashed, symbolising the washing away of sins. This popular celebration is held at Batu Caves and attended bt tens of thousand of people every year.

Awal Muharram
Maal Hijrah, the first day of the new Islamic calendar year, is celebrated on a moderate scale with gatherings at public halls and mosques where special prayers, sermons and Quranic recitals are held to usher in the Muslim new year.

Prophet Muhammad's Birthday
The birthday (May 2nd) of the Prophet Muhammad or Maulidur Rasul is an important event in the Muslim calendar marked by processions to demonstrate solidarity of believers. Prayers, sermons and religious discussions are held at this time to strengthen the faith and consolidate the spirit of the Muslim community.

Wesak Day
Celebrated around May by Buddhists to commemorate the birth, enlightenment and death of Buddha - all three events having taken place on the same lunar date according to Buddhist reckoning. Buddhist observe a vegetarian diet to cleanse themselves prior to the occasion.

Sabah Kaamatan Festival
Ancient traditions, rites and customs are the order of the day as the indigenous Kadazan-Dusun of Sabah offer thanksgiving for a bountiful harvest (May 1st). The 'Magavau', a cleansing and blessing ritual performed by the Bobohizan or high priestess will keep you spellbound.

Sarawak Gawai Festival
The end of the padi harvesting season (end May or early June) in Sarawak is cause for joyous celebration as the indigenous Ibans and Bodayuhs indulge in much merry-making, traditional dancing and drinking of tuak, a potent rice wine.

Malaysia's National Day
Malaysia's national day is celebrated on 31st of August in a show of patriotism, unity and rejoicing by Malaysians of all races and creeds. A spectacular parade is held in the morning at the Merdeka Square in Kuala Lumpur to mark the occasion. His Majesty, the King and government leaders are joined by a mammoth crowd in witnessing the parade. The 'Jalur Gemilang' (Malaysian flag) is proudly flown at office buildings, private homes and on vehicles.

Deepavali
For the Hindus, Deepavali or the Festival of Lights signifies the triumph of good over evil. Celebrated during the 7th month of the Hindu calendar, a traditional oil bath precedes the festivities. The celebration includes visits to temples and prayers at household altars. Hindu homes are adorned with lights or oil lamps to symbolise the victory of Lord Krishna over the demon, Ravana.

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. Early in the morning, special prayers are held in mosques throughout the country and families visit the graves of departed members to offer prayers. It is also a day for family reunions and 'open houses' for friends. His Majesty, the King of Malaysia, and government leaders also hold 'open houses' for the public at their official residences.

Christmas
There is much joy and gaiety as Christians celebrate the birth of Christ with parties, carolling and evening mass. Streets, hotels and shopping complexes are decorated with brilliant lights and ornaments to create a yuletide atmosphere-the Malaysian way. The spirit of giving extends beyond homes and individuals as hotels, shopping complexes and corporate companies hold concerts and shows as well as organise charity drives.