Malaysia Public Holidays 2019 + Long Weekends

“New Year, New Me!” Time passes so quickly without us noticing that it’s almost 2019. Are you ready for a new year full of exploration and discovery? Block the dates and plan ahead of your friends and colleagues!

We’ve charted out some of the best places to visit each month of 2019. Make use of the 2019 public holidays to enjoy long weekend getaways or stretch your holiday trips a little bit longer! Use our calendar to see when the national holidays are. There are 7 long weekends this year. If you sandwich some annual leave days between, you can get 5 additional long weekends in 2019! Add your local state holidays, and you’ve got plenty of opportunities to travel this year, within Malaysia and other exciting international destinations.

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2019 Malaysia Public Holidays

+ Great Spots for Getaways Each Month

1.  January

Public Holiday:  Tues 1 Jan (Tahun Baru) ; Mon 21 Jan (Thaipusam)

Long Weekend: Sat – Tues, 29 Dec – 1 Jan

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Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Kuala Lumpur, the capital city of Malaysia is beyond the dazzling skyscrapers. Hang around KLCC Park in the evening to enjoy some live music or dine at Heli Lounge rooftop bar to catch the panoramic view of the city with the glittering fireworks on New Year’s Eve. Shop till you drop in January when most stores will have a massive festive sale.

If shopping is not your thing, join a million other people in Batu Caves to witness the parade at the Thaipusam Hindu Festival. Hindu devotees perform will self-penitence and self-sacrificing acts and usually will reach the state of trance as they reach the temple of Lord Murugan in the middle of the cave.

Get a piece of history and elegance when staying at The Majestic Hotel Kuala Lumpur.

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Phu Quoc, Vietnam

The dry weather in January makes Phu Quoc a pleasant beach destination to visit. If you are looking for a quality time with your partner, get a taste of serenity on the pristine Bai Khem Beach to relax and unwind. Don’t miss the spectacular sunset here!

Thousands of partygoers come to Phu Quoc every year to attend Epizode3, the first-of-its-kind 11-day music festival on the island. Get ready to dance to the latest popular beats played by more than 100 local and international talents.

Get pampered by the luxurious colonial vibe at the JW Marriott, Emerald Bay overlooking the crystal blue water of Emerald Bay.

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2.  February

Public Holiday: Tues 5 Feb and Wed 6 Feb (Chinese New Year)

+ 1 day leave to get a Long Weekend: Sat – Wed 

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Langkawi Island, Malaysia

Besides the attractive duty-free policy throughout Langkawi, the island is a great weekend getaway destination. Escape the wet weather by visiting Langkawi in February and spend your day exploring the wide range of activities here. From jet skiing to jungle trekking, Langkawi caters to travellers with any kinds of budget.

Tucked away in a quiet corner of Langkawi, St.Regis Langkawi gives guests a chance to relax.

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Chiang Mai, Thailand

The mountainous Chiang Mai is an old city that is saturated with historical remains. The month of February experiences a cooling, dry weather, making it pleasant for travellers to explore the city. February is also a great time to catch the 2019 Chiang Mai Flower Festival, a massive parade with colourful platforms and statues made from flowers. Many roads are blocked for the festival, so plan your trip carefully!

De Chai The Colonial Hotel is strategically located in the heart of Chiang Mai.

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3.  March

(No Public Holidays)

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Penang, Malaysia

 Image Credit: Jaz Etherton

Travelling to Penang in March is a bliss. Rain is off-the-radar and the number of tourists is probably at the lowest. Penang has always been known as a paradise for any foodies. However, beyond food, Penang is also a cultural hub. In February, travellers can experience the 2-day Hot Air Balloon Fiesta with adorable huge hot air balloon.

Hotel Jen Penang, with its modern and chic rooms, is close to most of the tourist attractions in Penang.

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Luang Prabang, Laos

Get up early to perform alms-giving for the Buddhist monks early in the morning. In the afternoon, visit the iconic Kuang Si Falls for a refreshing dip in the turquoise blue water. Go on hill climbing adventure to the hilltop of Wat Chomphet for the colourful murals. In the evening, visit the local night market to indulge in street food or reward yourself with some foot massage.

Maison Dalabua is the epitome of tranquillity in Luang Prabang, away from the loud and buzzing nightlife.

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4.  April

(No Public Holidays)

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Borneo (Sabah), Malaysia

Looking to conquer the great Mt.Kinabalu? Head there in April as April sees a wonderful weather to climb Mt. Kinabalu. Besides trekking, you can also snorkel at Tun Sakaran Marine Park. Get a chance to see manta rays and hawksbill turtles across multiple diving spots there. Who knows you may also chance upon whale sharks as they normally migrate in April.

For a fuss-free family-friendly hotel in Kota Kinabalu, stay at Le Meridien Hotel Kota Kinabalu.

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Boracay, Philippines

After a long closure for intense islandwide cleaning, Boracay has finally re-opened its door to tourists. Expect a pristine beach with crystal clear water wherever you go. Besides snorkelling and sun-bathing, spend some time exploring the mainland area. Mount Luho, for example, is a great change from the typical beach as it offers a scenic view of the island and ocean. Now, they only accept less than 20,000 tourists on the island at any one time, so plan your trip early!

Fairways and Bluewater Boracay is a beautiful beach resort with top-notch service and amenities.

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5.  May

Public Holidays: Wed 1 May (Labour Day) ;  Sun 19 May (Vesak Day)

Long Weekend: Sat 18 May – Mon 20 May

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Perhentian Island, Malaysia

It’s time to bring your kids on vacation! Perhentian Island is a great option for a family getaway. Perhentian Kecil suits budget travellers who wish to scuba dive. For a more relaxing and intimate holiday, head to Perhentian Besar to stay at one of the popular beach resorts. Don’t leave the island without visiting the turtle conservation or witness the baby turtles hatching in the middle of the night.

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Seoul, South Korea

Seoul is bursting in colours in May as the spring season lingers and the flowers reach its peak for blooming. Seoul holds the Taean Tulip Festival with 1.5 million flowers, mainly tulips, blooming in various.

Another sight to behold is the Yeong Deung Hoe (Lotus Lantern Festival) held across South Korea. Head to Jongno Street and the Jogyesa temple to watch some traditional performances while admiring the lanterns.

Four Points by Sheraton Seoul is a great option for a family-friendly stay.

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6.  June

Public Holiday: Wed 5 Jun – Thurs 6 Jun (Hari Raya Puasa)

+ 1 day leave to get a Long Weekend: Wed – Sun 

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Melaka, Malaysia

The dry weather in June makes easy for travellers to explore Malacca on foot. The colonial architecture and rich heritage sites give Malacca a unique charm unlike other towns in Malaysia. June is also the best season to go for a tropical fruit buffet at Melaka Tropical Fruit Farm, especially if you are a fan of durian. Plan your trip to Malacca over the weekend so you can experience the local night market at Jonker Street, nibbling all the street snacks and buying some cheap souvenirs.

Stay at Hotel Puri Melaka to experience a Peranakan lifestyle in the heart of Malacca.

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Bali, Indonesia

Some people argue that Bali is overrated with all the hipster cafe and beaches, but Bali is beyond that. Hike Mount Batur or Mount Agung to catch the scenic sunrise or pay a visit to some iconic temples such as Pura Tanah Lot or Pura Lempuyang. Head to Denpasar to witness the annual Bali Arts Festival to discover the rich culture of Bali.

Courtyard by Marriott Bali is only 10-minute away from the popular beaches in Seminyak.

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7.  July

(No Public Holidays)

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Cameron Highlands, Malaysia

Escape the heat by taking a trip to the mountainous Cameron Highland. If you love strawberry, you will have a chance to pluck strawberries fresh from the trees at the strawberry farm. Cameron Ultra-Trail is no stranger for any fitness buff and is going to happen in July 2019. It’s time to start your strict training regime for a medal in Cameron Ultra-Trail.

Copthorne Hotel Cameron Highlands is a popular choice for a quick access to Cameron Highland Butterfly Farm and the Raju Hill Strawberry Farm.

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Queenstown, New Zealand

Want some snow in the middle of the year? Head to Queenstown, New Zealand for a beautiful landscape view of snowcapped mountains and Lake Wakatipu. Queenstown also holds winter festival packed with activities for all age groups. If you are tired from the snow skiing and hiking, hit the NZ Mountain film festival for some inspiring adventure films and speakers.

Heritage Queenstown is a great hotel choice, overlooking Lake Wakatipu and Steamer Wharf.

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8.  August

Public Holiday: Sat 30 Aug (Hari Merdeka); Mon 2 Sept (Awal Muharam)

1 Long Weekend: 30th – 2nd (Sat – Mon)

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Sarawak (Kuching), Malaysia

The quaint “cat town” is a lovely change from all the hustle bustle of cosmopolitan cities in Malaysia. Kuching’s weather is pretty dry in August — a great time to explore the wildlife and nature of the surrounding. After exploring the Bako National Park, return to the heart of Kuching City and join in the Kuching Festival. From food exhibition and football tournament to dance and music performances, Kuching Festival will be happening throughout the month of August.

For a family-friendly hotel, book your stay at Pullman Kuching, which is close to most shopping centres in town.

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Hokkaido, Japan

 Image Credit: Ymlinst

Sapporo Summer Festival, also known as the Sapporo Natsu Matsuri, is held until mid-August every year. Visitors can expect tons of traditional performances, such as the Bon Dance, and an open-air beer garden in Odori Park, accommodating up to 13,000 seats. Head to Furano to snap loads of Insta-worthy photos of the blooming massive lavender fields. Stay at the Sapporo Grand Hotel for a convenient walk to Clock Tower and Odori Park.

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9.  September

Public Holiday: Sun 1 Sept (Awal Muharram) ; Mon 9 Sept (Agong’s Birthday);  Mon 16 Sept (Hari Malaysia)

3 Long Weekends: 31 Aug – 2 Sept (Sat – Mon); 7 – 9 Sept (Sat – Mon); 14 – 16 Sept (Sat – Mon)

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Redang Island, Malaysia

The off-peak diving season in September only means more discount for travellers going to Redang Island. Besides diving, tourists can also explore the island by trekking along the coastal line. Tourists can also get a chance to see green turtles mating at Pasir Chagar Hutang. The local food is kept affordable, and it has a mix of Malay and Chinese influence.

Pamper yourself by staying at the luxurious Redang Island Resort, located close to the Marine Park Centre.

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Taipei, Taiwan

The autumn season in Taipei is beautiful with the cooling weather and yellow leaves that turn Taipei into a golden city. Spend the mid-autumn festival with moon-gazing at Danshui Fishing Wharf while snacking the traditional mooncake. Join the locals to light up lanterns, with their wishes written on them, and to float them into the air.

Taipei City Hotel is tucked in a quieter area of Taipei, but is still close to Shilin Night Market — a great option for any foodies!

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10.  October

Public Holiday: Sun 27 Oct – Deepavali

Long Weekend:25 – 28 Oct (Sat – Mon)

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Perak, Malaysia

Perak has a good mix of nature and man-made attractions. For a quick weekend getaway with your family, head to the 40-acre Sunway Lost World of Tambun Theme Park for some thrilling rides. If that is not adventurous enough, sign up for a cave exploration at Tempurung Cave. Alternatively, get on a trip to Pangkor Island for a beach getaway.

M Boutique Station 18 is a unique accommodation with Insta-worthy room designs.

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Singapore

A tiny island packed with tourist attractions, Singapore is less crowded and less hot in September. Spend your Halloween at the Universal Studios Singapore to challenge your adrenaline. If you want to keep your itinerary flexible, do keep a lookout for upcoming concerts and festivals that happen every other week. Some free activities include watching Spectra, a light and water display along the Promenade.

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11.  November

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Johor Bahru, Malaysia

Johor’s tourism is considerably slow in November. Thus, hotels rate are significantly cheaper and tourist crowds are less expected. A short driving distance from KL and Singapore, Johor Bahru has everything you can imagine. Explore the colonial JB old streets, feast on the authentic Assam Fish Head Curry and get lost in the Johor Premium Outlet.

If you’re into second-hand goodies, bring along your bargain queen to Pasar Karat for some interesting finds. Stay at Hotel Jen Puteri, just a stone throw away from Puteri Harbour Family Theme park and a five-minute drive to Legoland Malaysia.

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Siem Reap, Cambodia

Unlike the usual hot weather of Cambodia, the November weather in Siem Reap pretty cooling, thanks to the rain. From 10 to 13 November 2019, Siem Reap also celebrates Bon Om Touk. The Water Festival also marks the beginning of the reverse of the Mekong River as well as the annual Pirogue longboat race. Besides the race, at night, the waters are packed with neon-illuminated boats.

Book a stay at Dream Mango Villa for a spacious room not far from the market area.

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12.  December

Public Holiday: Wed 25 Dec (Christmas)

+ 2 days leave to get a Long Weekend: 25 – 29 Dec (Wed – Sun)

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Port Dickson, Malaysia

 Image Credit: Aereon Wong

While most parts in Malaysia experience rain in December, Port Dickson is different. It receives constant sunshine throughout the year. Port Dickson is a family-friendly travel destination with plenty of options for kids and adults such as Tanjung Tuan and Cape Rachado Lighthouse.

Stay at the famous Lexus Hibiscus for a Maldives-like resort experience.

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Copenhagen, Denmark

Looking for a typical Christmas experience in an European country? Consider visiting Copenhagen for its Christmas market at Tivoli Gardens. Have a sip of hot mulled wine with some roasted chestnut to warm yourself up during the chilly winter. The Christmas spirit is pretty much alive with all the Christmas lights, decorations and features such as the Elf Train and the Winged Wheel. Stay in Copenhagen until the New Year Celebration to witness massive, colourful fireworks!

First Hotel Mayfair provides edgy rooms, only 10 minutes away from Tivoli Gardens.

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You Miss 100% of the Trips You Don’t Take…

Great Spots for Getaways

Click to see deals that give you an idea how much a trip would cost. Adjust your dates and budget on Expedia.com.my, then make it happen!

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