Malaysia Religious Festival
Religious Festivals
Hari Raya Aidilfitri
Muslims celebrate this festival at the end of Ramadan, the fasting month. A joyous mood and festive atmosphere prevails especially at night, when houses and gardens are decorated with lights. On the morning of Han Raya, special prayers are held in mosques, and families visit graves of departed loved ones. This is also the time for family reunions.
Hari Raya Aidiladha
Also known as Han Raya Haji or Korban, this Muslim festival is celebrated to mark the completion of the pilgrimage in Mecca. Special morning prayers are held in mosques all over the country. It is common for cattle, goats or ram to be sacrificed and the meat distributed to the poor.
Chinese Lunar New Year
This festival marks the commencement of the Chinese lunar calendar. Celebrated over 15 days, the highlight is the family reunion dinner. Children look forward to receiving the customary ang pow or red packets of money from elders. Lion dances are a common feature during this occasion.
Deepavali
Hindus celebrate Deepavali or the Festival of Lights to commemorate the triumph of good over evil. The day begins with a ritualistic oil bath and prayers accompanied by merrymaking and feasting.
Christmas
The city’s Christian community celebrates Christmas by attending services in churches. Carollers mark the Yuletide spirit by visiting homes while shopping centres are decked with Christmas trimmings.
Wesak Day
Wesak Day falls in the month of May and commemorates Lord Buddha’s birth, enlightenment and death. Devotees participate in rituals and prayers at temples around the country. Highlights include the release of doves at temples and a colourful float procession at night.
Thaipusam
This colourful and mesmerising Hindu festival is celebrated in honour of Lord Muruga at the famous Barn Caves, outside Kuala Lumpur. An elaborately decorated chariot bearing the deity accompanied by thousands of devotees carrying kavadis, or ornate frames as penance, make this an extraordinary sight.
Mid-Autumn Festival
(Lantern & Mooncake Festival)
Although it had its origins in China, this festival has come to symbolise a quiet celebration of peace and shared prosperity. Colourful lantern processions and a delectable variety of mooncakes are highlights of the festival.
New Year’s Eve
Join Malaysians in the countdown to usher in the New Year.
Open-air celebrations and concerts are grand affairs and are held
at various locations in the city such as Dataran Merdeka and
KLCC.
Federal Territory Day
Celebrated annually on 1 February, this day commemorates Kuala Lumpur’s declaration as a Federal Territory in 1974. Also known as City Day, this public holiday is celebrated with exciting parades, firework displays, exhibitions and cultural shows. Most events are open to the public.
Birthday of His Majesty The King of Malaysia
The official birthday of His Majesty The King of Malaysia is celebrated on the first Saturday of June. This auspicious occasion is marked by the bestowal of state honours and awards upon those who have rendered exceptional service to the country. Highlights include the ‘Trooping of the Colours’ by the armed forces as well as a host of cultural shows and exhibitions.
Citrawarna
Citrawama Malaysia or Colours of Malaysia is an enthralling month-long showcase of the nation’s cultural diversity. Enjoy stunning and colourful performances that include parades, traditional dances and musical performances.
Kuala Lumpur Events Diary
On 31St August, Malaysians from all walks of life come together to celebrate the National Day to mark Malaysia’s independence. To commemorate this significant occasion, a month-long celebration takes place in Kuala Lumpur and throughout the country. Major activities include exhibitions, colourful parades and spectacular fireworks. The proud display of Malaysian flags in the city is a sight to behold.
Other events include the National Water Festival Month, National Arts Month and the Food & Fruits Fiesta.