One thing that is certain among Malaysians is this: when there is a public holiday near the weekend, we are already planning our leave. Whether you are in school, university, or working, long weekends are the highlight of the year. It is that magical moment when you can pack your bags, drive back to your kampung, or take a quick getaway with friends without eating up too much annual leave.
As Malaysians, we are very lucky. We live in a country with a rich mix of cultures and religions, which means a calendar packed with celebrations. From Chinese New Year, Hari Raya Aidilfitri, Wesak, National Day, Deepavali to Christmas, every community brings more reasons to enjoy a holiday.
Long Weekend & Public Holidays in Malaysia 2026: Your Ultimate Guide to Applying Your Leave
Many of us take these opportunities to balik kampung to see our parents, travel with friends, or just relax at home. Whatever your style, knowing the exact dates of public holidays and potential long weekends is the secret to maximising your time off.
Here is your ultimate guide to Malaysia’s public holidays 2026 and the best long weekends to plan ahead.
Public Holidays Malaysia 2026
| Date | Public Holiday | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 1 Jan 2026 | New Year | Thursday |
| 1 Feb 2026 | Thaipusam & Federal Territory | Sunday |
| 17 Feb 2026 | Chinese New Year | Tuesday |
| 18 Feb 2026 | Chinese New Year | Wednesday |
| 19 Feb 2026 | Ramadan | Thursday |
| 7 Mac 2026 | Nuzul Al-Quran | Saturday |
| 21 Mar 2026 | Raya Aidilfitri | Saturday |
| 22 Mar 2026 | Raya Aidilfitri | Sunday |
| 1 May 2026 | Labour Day | Friday |
| 27 May 2026 | Raya Haji | Wednesday |
| 28 May 2026 | Raya Haji | Thursday |
| 30 May 2026 | Kaamatan | Saturday |
| 31 May 2026 | Wesak / Kaamatan | Sunday |
| 1 Jun 2026 | Gawai & YDP Agong Official Birthday | Monday |
| 2 Jun 2026 | Gawai | Thursday |
| 17 Jun 2026 | Muharram | Wednesday |
| 25 August 2026 | Maulidur Rasul | Tuesday |
| 31 August 2026 | National Day | Monday |
| 16 Sep 2026 | Malaysia Day | Wednesday |
| 8 Nov 2026 | Deepavali | Sunday |
| 25 Dec 2026 | Christmas | Friday |
Reference: Hari Kelepasan Am Negeri dan Persekutuan Malaysia 2026
Long Weekend 2026 - Malaysia
Make the most of your leave in 2026 with these suggestions of long weekend opportunities:
- Januari: 1–4 Jan (New Year)
- Februari: 31 Jan – 2 Feb (Thaipusam), 18–22 Feb (Chinese New Year)
- March: 21–23 Mar (Raya Aidilfitri)
- May: 1–3 May (Labour Day), 30 May – 1 June (YDP Agong Official Birthday)
- August: 22–25 August (Maulidur Rasul), 29–31 August (Merdeka)
- November: 7–9 Nov (Deepavali)
- December: 25–27 Dis (Christmas)
Tips to Maximise Your Long Weekends
- Plan Leave Early Combine your annual leave with public holidays to get the most days off with minimal leave days used.
- Book Travel in Advance Air tickets, bus seats, and hotels get more expensive closer to the date. Early booking can save you money and stress.
- Consider Off-Peak Trips If you can travel a day earlier or return a day later, you will avoid the worst traffic jams and crowds.
- Balik Kampung Safely Before you hit the road, make sure your car is in top condition, from tyres to brakes to battery.
Do Not Forget Your Car Battery Before Any Trip
Nothing kills the excitement of a long weekend faster than a car breakdown. If you are driving long distances for your long weekend, check your car battery in advance.
For peace of mind, you can stop by one of over 250 Bateriku pitstops nationwide for battery checks and replacements, so your trip home or holiday getaway stays smooth.
Malaysia’s public holidays are more than just days off, they are opportunities to reconnect with family, celebrate cultural diversity, and explore new places.
With this complete Malaysia’s public holiday for year 2026 guide, you can plan ahead and make every long weekend count. Mark your calendars now, apply for leave strategically, and make the most of our cuti panjang culture.
