Malaysia Festival

Malaysia is a country of multi-ethnic society practising multi-culturalism and multi-religion. Each ethnic group practises its own religion and belief which means various festivals are celebrated throughout the year. These festivals are usually celebrated either nationwide or at state level. "Open house" concept is practised almost all the festivals, which means inviting relatives and friends to partake in the food and festivity occasion. Some of these festivals are public holidays.

Malaysia Fest (September)

Pesta Malaysia, or Malaysia Fest, is a two-week affair held in September of every year. First held in 1987. it aims to create awareness and appreciation of Malaysian culture, craft and cuisine. This is one of the best times to make your journey to Malaysia if you are a new visitor. All the thirteen states of Malaysia participate in the event, which is held in Kuala Lumpur. Among the programs and activities visitors can look forward to will be cultural shows, demonstrations of the beautiful Malaysian handicrafts, and cuisine of the thirteen states. Streets are strung with lights, while shopping complexes and hotels compete for awards in creative light decorations. If you can only make it to one festival, this is the one to aim for.

Hari Raya Puasa

Hari Raya Puasa is a celebration marking the end of a Muslim month of fasting and abstinence, Ramadan. It is a special occasion for Muslims. Hari Raya Puasa officially begins at the sighting of the moon on the day before the next month on the Muslim calendar, Syawal. The first moon of the month of Syawal is sighted by religious elders in the late evening from several vantage points in Malaysia. The festival actually begins the following day, ushered in by prayers at the mosque early in the morning, and a visit to the cemetery to pray for the departed souls of loved ones. Then, of course, comes the feast.

New Year's Eve

As in many other countries throughout the world, New Year's Eve is celebrated with much merrymaking at public squares, hotels and restaurants. The Dataran Merdeka in Kuala Lumpur is particularly a good place to join in revelers, who gather at the square to usher in the new year.