A country of many festivals
Malaysia is home to many races and religions, so we enjoy a rainbow of festivals all year round. Each community keeps its own special celebrations, and everyone loves to join in.
- Hari Raya Aidilfitri — Muslims celebrate the end of the fasting month of Ramadan. Homes serve ketupat and rendang.
- Chinese New Year — the Chinese welcome a new lunar year with reunion dinners and ang pow (red packets) for children.
- Deepavali — the Hindu Festival of Lights, when Indian families light oil lamps and share sweets.
- Christmas (25 December) — Christians celebrate the birth of Jesus.
- Wesak Day — Buddhists remember the birth of the Buddha.
Festivals in Sabah and Sarawak
In Sarawak, the Dayak people celebrate Gawai to give thanks for the rice harvest. In Sabah, the Kadazan-Dusun celebrate the harvest festival Pesta Kaamatan.
Remember
- Hari Raya, Chinese New Year, Deepavali and Christmas are our biggest festivals.
- Malaysians hold open houses so friends of every race can visit.