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Public Holidays in Malaysia

Summary:

This article outlines Malaysia's comprehensive public holiday system, accommodating both federal and state-level celebrations, with a total of 48 public holidays in 2024.

Overview

Being a multi-cultural nation, Malaysia possesses a comprehensive public holiday calendar that accommodates both federal and state-level commemorations. In 2024, Malaysia will observe a total of 48 public holidays, comprising 12 federal holidays and 32 state holidays.

Major holidays

National Public Holidays

New Year's Day: January 1st, a nationwide holiday of one day, specifically observed in Kuala Lumpur, Labuan, Putrajaya, Melaka, Negeri Sembilan, Pahang, Perak, Penang, Sabah, Sarawak, and Selangor.
Chinese New Year: The first and second days of the Chinese New Year, a nationwide holiday to celebrate this significant festival.
Labour Day: May 1st, a nationwide holiday to commemorate the contributions of workers.
National Day: August 31st, celebrating Malaysia's independence from British colonial rule.
Hari Raya Haji: June 17th, a nationwide holiday commemorating the Islamic prophet Ibrahim's obedience to God's command.
Christmas Day: December 25th, a nationwide holiday, although Malaysia is not predominantly Christian, it celebrates this holiday due to its cultural inclusivity.
Other national holidays include Wesak Day, the King's Birthday, Hari Raya Aidilfitri, Islamic New Year, Malaysia Day, Prophet Muhammad's Birthday, and Deepavali, which are also observed as national public holidays.

State-Specific Public Holidays

Thaipusam: Primarily celebrated in Penang, Perak, Selangor, Negeri Sembilan, Johor, and Kuala Lumpur, it is a significant Hindu festival.
First Day of Ramadan: Observed as a holiday in Johor, Kedah, and Melaka, marking the beginning of the fasting month of Ramadan.
Nuzul Al-Quran: Observed in Kuala Lumpur, Labuan, Putrajaya, Kelantan, Pahang, Perak, Perlis, Penang, Selangor, and Terengganu, commemorating the revelation of the Quran.
Good Friday: Observed in Sabah and Sarawak, commemorating the crucifixion of Jesus Christ.
Birthdays of State Rulers: Each state in Malaysia has its own Sultan or Ruler, and their birthdays are typically observed as public holidays in their respective states.
Local Festivals: Such as George Town World Heritage Day (Penang), Sarawak Independence Day, and Pahang Day, celebrated in specific regions.

Special Holiday

Malaysia National Day: August 31, celebrates Malaysia's independence.

Malaysia Public Holidays 2025

National Public Holidays (Applicable to all states)

New Year's Day: Wednesday, January 1st
Chinese New Year: Tuesday, January 29th and Wednesday, January 30th
Federal Territory Day: Saturday, February 1st (Kuala Lumpur, Labuan, Putrajaya)  
Isra' and Mikraj: Varies by state
Nuzul Al-Quran: Tuesday, March 18th (except Johor, Kedah, Melaka, Negeri Sembilan, Sabah, Sarawak)  
Hari Raya Aidilfitri: Monday, March 31st and Tuesday, April 1st  
Wesak Day: Monday, May 12th  

Logistics Operations During Public Holidays in Malaysia

Shipping Companies

During public holidays, shipping companies may suspend some services, but critical operations (such as cargo loading and unloading) will usually continue. Shipping companies like MISC Malaysia may reduce office hours or only provide emergency services.

Airlines

Major airlines like Malaysia Airlines typically continue to operate flights during holidays, but the working hours of their customer service departments may be adjusted. Customer service centers may have shorter operating hours, while online booking and self-service options are usually unaffected.

Freight Forwarders

Freight forwarders may close their offices during public holidays but may still provide services through email or emergency contact numbers. For urgent cargo that needs to be handled during holidays, some freight forwarders may make special arrangements.

Railways

Malaysia's railway services, such as KTM, may adjust their train schedules, especially during long weekends or holidays. Passengers should confirm train schedules in advance.

Couriers

Courier companies like DHL and FedEx may suspend delivery services but will usually notify customers in advance and arrange for post-holiday delivery. Self-service drop-off points may remain open.

Logistics Companies

Logistics companies may reduce services during holidays, especially those involving cross-border transportation. Customer support departments may adjust their working hours.

To ensure accurate information, it is recommended to contact the specific company directly to obtain their working arrangements for a particular public holiday.