The Lunar New Year is the biggest event in the Malaysian calendar. Beginning on the first day of the first lunar month, the celebrations last for 15 days and often feature colourful lion dances, drums and festive meals with family. People typically offer oranges to each other as a symbol of respect and good luck.

This unique annual festival celebrates the triumph of the Hindu god Murugan and takes place at the Batu Caves near Kuala Lumpur. During the event, devotees perform ritual piercings, commonly using a ceremonial item called a kavadi to pierce the skin, cheeks or tongue. The Batu Caves, dating back to the 19th century, can be reached by ascending 272 steps.

Marking the end of the holy month of Ramadan, Eid al-Fitr is the largest annual celebration for the Islamic community. Also known as Hari Raya Aidilfitri or Hari Raya Puasa, the festival follows a period of solemn reflection, during which Muslims fast from dawn to dusk for 30 days and engage in acts of kindness. Eid brings a joyful conclusion to this time of spiritual growth and devotion.

This annual celebration of water takes place at the nation’s islands and beaches, with a major event held at Wat Chayamangkalaram in George Town, Penang. During the festival, people enjoy various water-themed activities, including the traditional custom of splashing water for good luck and well-wishes.

To commemorate the birth, death and enlightenment of Buddha, people gather at Buddhist temples to pray and make offerings. On this sacred day, vibrant processions of flowers and candles take place, especially in areas like Penang, where there is a large Buddhist community. Devotees gather to honour Buddha’s teachings, share wisdom and reflect on the path to enlightenment.

This festival, rooted in an ancient pagan ritual, is one of the most important cultural events in Malaysia’s Sabah State. Local communities gather to celebrate the harvest season with traditional performances and local specialties such as hinava (raw fish salad), bambangan (pickled wild mango) and the local style of rice wine.

Teams from around the world gather in Penang each year for this exciting event, celebrating the island’s rich maritime heritage. Colourful traditional boats race across the water, accompanied by the rhythmic beat of drums. Delicious street food and vibrant performances add to the lively atmosphere.

During this festival, ethnic communities in Sarawak, Malaysia, including the Bidayuh, Murut, Kayan, and Iban, gather to celebrate the harvest season with elaborate feasts and festivities. Traditional desserts and cakes like sarang semut and kuih sepit are often served along with the local rice wine called tuak and other local specialties.

Known as the “Feast of Sacrifice,” this important Muslim event commemorates the prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son to demonstrate his obedience to God. Dishes made of meat, a symbol of sacrifice, are typically eaten on this day. During the event, people engage in social visits and shared meals, fostering community spirit through acts of compassion and generosity.

An annual three-day celebration of world music, this iconic event held in Kuching, Sarawak, features an exciting lineup of workshops, cultural displays and concerts. Set in the foothills of Mount Santubong, the festival creates a unique atmosphere with a stunning rainforest backdrop and a diverse range of international performers.

To honour Saint Peter, the patron saint of fishermen, this annual festival in Malacca spans several days and features bazaars, live music, light shows and amusement rides. The event reflects the community’s Portuguese heritage and highlights the significance of fishing. Cultural performances blend European and Asian influences, showcasing dances that combine diverse costumes and instruments.

On this day in 1957, Malaysia declared its independence from the British and formed the Federation of Malaya. To mark the occasion, Malaysians celebrate with parades, performances and concerts, which often take place around Merdeka Square in Kuala Lumpur. The event begins at the stroke of midnight when a vibrant fireworks display kicks off the festivities.

On the 15th night of the seventh lunar month, Chinese communities across Malaysia gather to honour the spirits of their ancestors with elaborate meals and traditional rituals. In places like Penang, Ipoh and Malacca, where there is a large Chinese population, the occasion is marked with grand processions and communal feasts.

This event marks the establishment of the Malaysian Federation in 1963, when Malaya, Sabah, Sarawak and Singapore united, although Singapore later became independent in 1965. The union of these diverse regions laid the foundation for the unique cultural and political landscape that defines Malaysia today. Malaysians from all walks of life come together to honour their shared history and identity, celebrating with parades, cultural performances and various festivities.

Marked by colourful lanterns and delicious treats, this popular festival takes place in the middle of autumn, when the moon is believed to be at its fullest and brightest. The event has become synonymous with moon cakes, a traditional pastry filled with sweet bean or lotus seed paste. In Penang, a lantern parade and traditional lion and dragon dances culminate in an evening lantern walk at Penang Hill.

This vibrant Hindu celebration, also known as the Festival of Lights, is a spiritual event marked by candles, flowers and traditional ceremonies. Streets, particularly in Kuala Lumpur’s Little India, are lined with stalls selling samosas, murukku, curries and other Indian specialties. People also create intricate kolam art using coloured rice and flour, a symbol of good luck and unity.