Colourful Festivals In Malaysia

Thaipusam

Thaipusam is a colorful festival celebrated in January or February. People wear special clothes and carry decorated carts called "kavadis" These kavadis are offerings to the god Murugan, and some people pierce their bodies with small hooks to show their devotion. It's a vibrant celebration with drumming, chanting, and colorful displays.

A Buddhist celebration in Malaysia commemorates Gautama Buddha's birth, enlightenment, and death. The festival is observed on the full moon of the lunar month of Vesākha. Wesak Day is a day of meditation and contemplation, taking place throughout the day. Golden Buddha images are washed to represent the washing away of negative ideas.

img credit : https://tropicalexpat.wordpress.com/

Wesak Day

Chinese New Year

The Chinese New Year celebrations, last for a full two weeks. Parades frequently feature traditional dragon and lion dances. Cities and towns come alive with red decorations, symbolizing good luck and prosperity. Households are cleaned; temples offer prayers for prosperity and good fortune; and ceremonial drums are struck to drive out evil spirits.

img credit: https://www.wonderfulmalaysia.com/

Dragon Boat Festival

Experience the vibrant Dragon Boat Festival in Penang, where over 40 Malaysian and international racers gather at Teluk Bahang Dam. Indulge in local cuisines and enjoy live music as traditional boats adorned with vibrant colors race to the beat of drummers, creating an electrifying atmosphere for visitors to savor.

img credit: https://english.news.cn/-draogan

Kaamatan Harvest Festival

The Kadazan Dusun Cultural Association Hall (KDCA) in Penampang, Sabah, hosts various exhibits showcasing Sabahan culture. Visitors can enjoy traditional dancing, abundant food and drink, including Tapai and Lihing rice wine. Native dishes like hinava (fermented fish) and bambangan (pickled fruit) are also served.

img credit:https://www.mysabah.com/

Deepavali Malaysia

During this festive occasion in Malaysia, Hindus celebrate by creating intricate chalk patterns and spreading colored rice. Everyone, regardless of ethnicity or religion, is welcome to join in at homes or public venues like malls. The streets come alive with the aroma of Indian cuisine, with homemade delights like samosas, murukku, and curries being sold alongside the diverse range of Indian dishes available.

Independence Day

After decades of colonial rule, Malaya declared independence. The climax of celebrations typically unfolds at Kuala Lumpur's Merdeka Square. At the stroke of midnight, fireworks burst across the sky, painting it with vibrant hues, kickstarting the festivities. The streets come alive with parades and performances, showcasing national pride from schoolchildren to civil servants.

Malaysia Eid

The date of the important Muslim festival Eid or Hari Rayais subject to change. Instead, religious scholars base the timing on the lunar Hijri month. Before Eid, Muslims all across the world, including Malaysia, fast for a month in Ramadan. Fasting entails not eating, drinking, or smoking from dawn until sunset. Eid celebrations begin at the end of Ramadan and are Malaysia's greatest event.