Malaysia is a nation with a unique blend of diverse cultures, rapid economic growth, and natural beauty. It continues to evolve, addressing its challenges while leveraging its strengths in cultural diversity and strategic location.
List of National and Public Holidays for Malaysia in the Year 2025
January & Februar
- New Year’s Day is on Wednesday, 1st January 2025, observed nationally except in Johor, Kedah, Kelantan, Perlis, and Terengganu.
- YDPB Negeri Sembilan’s Birthday is on Tuesday, 14th January 2025, observed in Negeri Sembilan.
- Israk and Mikraj is on Monday, 27th January 2025, observed in Kedah, Negeri Sembilan, Perlis, and Terengganu.
- Chinese New Year is on Wednesday, 29th January 2025, observed nationally.
- Chinese New Year Holiday is on Thursday, 30th January 2025, observed nationally except in Kelantan.
- Federal Territory Day is on Saturday, 1st February 2025, observed in Kuala Lumpur, Labuan, and Putrajaya.
- Thaipusam is on Tuesday, 11th February 2025, observed in Johor, Kuala Lumpur, Negeri Sembilan, Penang, Perak, Putrajaya, and Selangor.
- Independence Declaration Day is on Thursday, 20th February 2025, observed in Melaka.
March and April
- Awal Ramadan is on Sunday, 2nd March 2025, observed in Johor and Kedah.
- Awal Ramadan Holiday is on Monday, 3rd March 2025, observed in Johor.
- Installation of Sultan Terengganu is on Tuesday, 4th March 2025, observed in Terengganu.
- Nuzul Al-Quran is on Tuesday, 18th March 2025, observed nationally except in Johor, Kedah, Melaka, Negeri Sembilan, Sabah, and Sarawak.
- Sultan of Johor’s Birthday is on Sunday, 23rd March 2025, observed in Johor.
- Sultan of Johor’s Birthday Holiday is on Monday, 24th March 2025, observed in Johor.
- Hari Raya Aidilfitri is on Monday, 31st March 2025, observed nationally.
- Hari Raya Aidilfitri Holiday is on Tuesday, 1st April 2025, observed nationally.
- Hari Raya Aidilfitri Holiday is on Wednesday, 2nd April 2025, observed in Melaka.
- Good Friday is on Friday, 18th April 2025, observed in Sabah and Sarawak.
- Sultan of Terengganu’s Birthday is on Saturday, 26th April 2025, observed in Terengganu.
- Sultan of Terengganu’s Birthday Holiday is on Sunday, 27th April 2025, observed in Terengganu.
May and June
- Labour Day is on Thursday, 1st May 2025, observed nationally.
- Wesak Day is on Monday, 12th May 2025, observed nationally.
- Raja Perlis’ Birthday is on Saturday, 17th May 2025, observed in Perlis.
- Hari Hol Pahang is on Thursday, 22nd May 2025, observed in Pahang.
- Harvest Festival is on Friday, 30th May 2025, observed in Labuan and Sabah.
- Harvest Festival Holiday is on Saturday, 31st May 2025, observed in Labuan and Sabah.
- Hari Gawai is on Sunday, 1st June 2025, observed in Sarawak.
- Hari Gawai Holiday is on Monday, 2nd June 2025, observed in Sarawak.
- Agong’s Birthday is on Monday, 2nd June 2025, observed nationally.
- Agong’s Birthday Holiday is on Tuesday, 3rd June 2025, observed in Sarawak.
- Arafat Day is on Friday, 6th June 2025, observed in Kelantan and Terengganu.
- Hari Raya Haji is on Saturday, 7th June 2025, observed nationally.
- Hari Raya Haji Holiday is on Sunday, 8th June 2025, observed in Kedah, Kelantan, Perlis, and Terengganu.
- Hari Raya Haji Holiday is on Monday, 9th June 2025, observed in Kelantan, Perlis, and Terengganu.
- Sultan of Kedah’s Birthday is on Sunday, 22nd June 2025, observed in Kedah.
- Awal Muharram is on Friday, 27th June 2025, observed nationally.
- Awal Muharram Holiday is on Sunday, 29th June 2025, observed in Kedah.
July and August
- Georgetown World Heritage City Day is on Monday, 7th July 2025, observed in Penang.
- Penang Governor’s Birthday is on Saturday, 12th July 2025, observed in Penang.
- Sarawak Day is on Tuesday, 22nd July 2025, observed in Sarawak.
- Sultan of Pahang’s Birthday is on Wednesday, 30th July 2025, observed in Pahang.
- Hari Hol Almarhum Sultan Iskandar is on Thursday, 31st July 2025, observed in Johor.
- Melaka Governor’s Birthday is on Sunday, 24th August 2025, observed in Melaka.
- Melaka Governor’s Birthday Holiday is on Monday, 25th August 2025, observed in Melaka.
- Merdeka Day is on Sunday, 31st August 2025, observed nationally.
September till December
- Merdeka Day Holiday is on Monday, 1st September 2025, observed nationally except in Kedah, Kelantan, and Terengganu.
- Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday is on Friday, 5th September 2025, observed nationally.
- Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday Holiday is on Sunday, 7th September 2025, observed in Kedah.
- Malaysia Day is on Tuesday, 16th September 2025, observed nationally.
- Sultan of Kelantan’s Birthday is on Monday, 29th September 2025, observed in Kelantan.
- Sultan of Kelantan’s Birthday Holiday is on Tuesday, 30th September 2025, observed in Kelantan.
- Sabah Governor’s Birthday is on Saturday, 4th October 2025, observed in Sabah.
- Sarawak Governor’s Birthday is on Saturday, 11th October 2025, observed in Sarawak.
- Deepavali is on Monday, 20th October 2025, observed nationally except in Sarawak.
- Sultan of Perak’s Birthday is on Friday, 7th November 2025, observed in Perak.
- Sultan of Selangor’s Birthday is on Thursday, 11th December 2025, observed in Selangor.
- Christmas Eve is on Wednesday, 24th December 2025, observed in Sabah.
- Christmas Day is on Thursday, 25th December 2025, observed nationally.
History
- Early History: Inhabited for thousands of years, with a history of trade and diverse influences from its position along strategic trade routes.
- Colonial Era: Fell under British rule in the 18th century, bringing together various Malay sultanates and states under one colonial administration.
- Independence and Formation: Gained independence in 1957. Formed Malaysia in 1963, incorporating Malaya, North Borneo (Sabah), Sarawak, and initially Singapore (which later became independent).
- Recent Developments: Post-independence, Malaysia has experienced rapid economic growth and development, along with political shifts and challenges.
Geography
- Location: Located in Southeast Asia, divided by the South China Sea into two regions: Peninsular Malaysia and East Malaysia (on Borneo island).
- Terrain: Features coastal plains rising to hills and mountains, with dense rainforests. Notable geographic features include Mount Kinabalu, the Cameron Highlands, and numerous islands.
- Climate: Tropical climate with high humidity and two monsoon seasons.
Culture
- Ethnic and Cultural Diversity: A multicultural society with ethnic Malay, Chinese, Indian, and indigenous groups. Each community contributes to Malaysia’s cultural tapestry.
- Religion: Islam is the official religion, but religious freedom is practiced, with significant Buddhist, Christian, Hindu, and traditional indigenous beliefs.
- Cuisine: Reflects its ethnic diversity, known for dishes like nasi lemak, satay, and laksa. A rich street food culture.
Economy
- Rapid Development: Transitioned from a predominantly agricultural economy to one based on manufacturing, services, and tourism.
- Key Sectors: Major industries include electronics, palm oil, petroleum, and natural gas production.
- Economic Challenges: Focused on economic diversification, addressing income inequality, and sustainable growth.
Society
- Demographics: A diverse population with a mix of ethnicities, languages, and cultures.
- Education and Healthcare: Significant progress in education and healthcare, with ongoing efforts to improve quality and accessibility.
- Urbanization and Quality of Life: Rapid urbanization with modern cities like Kuala Lumpur. High quality of life with a focus on continued improvement.
Environmental Focus
- Biodiversity: Rich in biodiversity with extensive natural resources. Conservation of rainforests and wildlife is a priority.
- Environmental Challenges: Issues include deforestation, pollution, and balancing development with environmental sustainability.
Government and Politics
- Political System: A federal constitutional elective monarchy and parliamentary democracy. The King (Yang di-Pertuan Agong) is elected from the Malay sultans for a five-year term.
- Recent Political Landscape: Has seen significant political shifts and reforms, with a focus on governance, transparency, and social issues.
Tourism
- Diverse Attractions: Offers a mix of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and modern attractions. Highlights include the Petronas Twin Towers, UNESCO World Heritage sites like George Town and Melaka, tropical islands like Langkawi, and national parks.
- Cultural Tourism and Ecotourism: Opportunities to experience diverse cultures and explore unique ecosystems.
Challenges and Future Outlook
- Economic Growth and Innovation: Aiming for sustainable economic growth through innovation, technology, and diversifying industries.
- Social Harmony and Inclusion: Addressing ethnic and religious harmony, and fostering an inclusive society.
- Regional and Global Role: Active in ASEAN and international affairs, balancing regional development and global economic integration.
In summary,
