Public holidays in Malaysia reflect the abundance of diverse tradition and culture in the country. The government has officially announced the list of public holidays which are observed nationwide.

New Year’s Day – January 1, Thursday

Like any other countries globally, Malaysia also celebrates the New Year except in some states like Perlis, Kelantan, Johor, Terennganu and Kedah. Fireworks display filled the air along with enthusiastic celebrations of festive meal family get together. This is the time which is believed to abound prosperity, peace and love in the country.

Maulidur Rasul (Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday) – January 3, Saturday

Malaysia’s state religion is Muslim and compromises the biggest population, celebrates this purely religious festivity. The prophet’s birthday is well commemorated through recitals of verses and lectures from the Koran.

Chinese New Year – February 19, Thursday

The Chinese community comprises the population of Malaysia. Like other Western countries, this celebration overflows with various rituals and traditions. Dragon dance, fireworks and red envelopes are amongst the most popular traditions being observed.

Labor Day – May 1, Friday

This event is also known as the International Worker’s Day where all countries around the world give honor to workers. This is also a time for them to rest and relax.

Wesak Day – May 3, Sunday

This is the holiest day in among Buddhist. Though may differ from country to country, Buddha’s birthday as the Holy Day in Buddhist calendar is a high celebration. Temples are decorated with lights where devotees can visit to meditate, offers prayers and give alms to Buddhist monks. This sacred day is highlighted especially in Kuala Lumpur where the procession goes on with Buddha on the float.

Agong’s Birthday (The King’s Birthday) – June 6, Saturday

Depending on the birthday of the current King, the ceremonial date of the King’s birthday does not change. The date generally falls on the first Saturday of June.”Trooping the Colour” in merdeka Square highlights the occasion. Series of ceremonies and events highlight the occasion. The term Agong refers to English word ‘His Majesty’ or ‘Her Majesty’.

Hari Raya Aidilfitri – July 17, Friday

Following the month of Muslim’s fasting and abstinence or Ramadhan is the Hari Raya Aidilfitri which is commemorated anywhere in Malaysia. This is significant to Muslims who have surpassed the month long abstinence and self-restraint through fasting. This is considered as the highest religious celebration for Muslims.

National day or Merdeka Day – August 31, Monday

Also known as the Freedom Day, Malaysia became independent in 1857 from the colonization of the British rule. Merdeka Square is the center of the celebration where parades, shimmering lights and flags decorated the place. This also symbolizes the country’s unity amidst diverse creeds and races.

Malaysia Day – September 16, Wednesday

This celebration is also known as the “Hari Malaysia”. This day is remembered and celebrated when the federation of Malaysia was formed with the East Malaysian states of Sabah and Sarawak and British colony of Singapore. Formal events and activities are held including parades which commemorate Malaysian spirit in achieving independence.

Hari Raya Haji – September 24, Thursday

This is one of the highest festivities in Muslim history around the world. Also known as Eid-Al-Adha, this celebration commemorates Prophet Muhammad’s sacrifice to even offer the lie of his son. One of the traditions observed is the slaughtering of animal meat which is to be given to poor families as a special form of charity. This is also the time for families to gather and share the festive meal with luxurious eating of meat, gift giving to children and wearing of luxurious clothes.

Awal Muharram – October 14, Wednesday

The event is considered as the Islamic New Year. Two festivities embark this date based on the Muslim calendar, Awal as the beginning and Muharram means first month. Unlike other countries, Muslims face the new year quietly with solemn prayers and readings who gathered in mosques. Religious and spiritual activities are held in public mosques like recital of verses and lectures of the Koran.

Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday – December 24, Thursday

This is a purely religious festival to Muslims in Malaysia. This is to commemorate the birthday of the Prophet Muhammad last 570 AD. Prayers, sermons, Koran recital verses and other religious activities are done. Muhammad’s birthplace in Mecca was transformed into a place of prayer.

Christmas Day – December 25, Friday

Malaysia like other Christian nations celebrates the birth of the savior Jesus. The festivity is commemorated with giving gifts to children, elegant meals on the table where the whole family gathered around along with singing of Christmas carols. Colorful lights and Christmas tress filled with attractive decorations add enthusiasm to this celebration.

Now that you have acquainted with various holidays in Malaysia, planning for a visit in the country is the next big thing that comes in your mind. Celebrate in one of the country’s holidays and witness the unique ambiance of Malaysia.

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The celebrations will kick off on June 7, 2013 and culminate on the anniversary of the UNESCO inscription itself.

This month-long event will feature a blend of local creative talents and world-class performers while showcasing Penang’s rich heritage and blossoming cultural scene.

There will be plenty of ticketed and free admission events, but here are the top 5 much-anticipated ticketed performances you may want to consider.

1) I Musici

If you have always pined for chamber music, a night with I Musici will not disappoint. You will be soothed with I Musici’s cover of Italian composers or uplifted particularly by Vivaldi’s evocative “Four Seasons.” At the very least, an audience with this musical group will inspire you to start a love affair with classical music or perhaps even move you to take up an instrument yourself. The event will be held on June 7 at 8:30 in the evening in Dewan Sri Pinang. Admission is available at RM60, RM80, and RM100. Students can avail tickets for only RM20 while senior citizens get a 50% discount on their tickets.

2) Sutra

Chinese martial arts have always looked fluid as if the repertory of hand-and-feet-movements is made for theater and not for defense. Who better to demonstrate that martial arts can just be plain art itself than 17 monks from the original Shaolin Temple? Sutra, choreographed by Flemish-Moroccan Sidi Larbi Cherkaoui, is a physically intense dance performance deeply rooted in Buddhist spirituality. The dance involves the use of 21 wooden boxes, created in collaboration with Antony Gormley, which reflects a changing stage and upon which the dancers stand on. This event will run from June 29 to 30 at 8:30 in the evening at Dewan Sri Pinang. The same rates as the I Musici apply, including the discounted rate for senior citizens.

3) Pro Musica Mini Concert

The Pro Musica Mini Concert features four opera stars namely Julie Mossay, a soprano; Ines Madeira, a mezzo soprano; Enrico Casari, a tenor; and Laurent Kubla, a bass/baritone. They will be accompanied by Master Class students of voice and music in the region who will be performing solo recitals and repertoires. Slated on July 4 at 8:30 P.M. at the MPPP Town Hall, admission fee is only RM30 for general audience and RM10 for students. Senior citizens will also enjoy a 50% discount.

4) A Night of Comedy with Kumar

Stand-up comedy is getting mainstream reputation as an art, thanks to quick-witted, no-holds-barred comedians who make people fall off their seats laughing. Kumar, a stand-up comedian, actor, host and drag queen who climbed the ranks from performing in nightclubs will put the audience in stitches as he dishes his best on June 20 at 8:30 PM at the E&O Hotel Grand Ballroom. The event is sponsored by CausewayExchange.

5) Pro Musica Gala Concert

The transcendental music of Handel, Mozart, Bellini, Donizetti, Bizet, Delibes, and Rossini will fill the air as opera singers Julie Mossay (soprano), Ines Madeira (mezzo soprano), Enrico Casari (tenor) and Laurent Kubla (bass/baritone) render a repertoire from the old masters. The Pro Musica Gala Concert will be held on July 6 at 8:30 in the evening in Dewan Sri Pinang. Tickets are available at RM40, RM60, and RM 80. Students pay only RM20 and senior citizens get a 50% discount.

Get your tickets this early. Log on to http://georgetownfestival.com/, click events, choose ticketed events and follow the link to buying the tickets. There are also plenty of free events to delight in, so clear your calendar and book your seats.

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Malaysia: One Size Fits All?

As a region, Southeast Asia has it all. But individually, countries still have a lot of growing pains to do to achieve maturity in tourist infrastructure, healthcare and communications. Laos, for example, is supremely affordable, but healthcare is very basic and even close to non-existent especially in the villages. Singapore’s tourist infrastructure is peerless in Southeast Asia, but because of its diminutive size, it does not have enough beach clout to tantalize sun worshipers from all frigid corners of the globe. The Philippines is sufficiently adept with the English language, but foreign travelers observe that their dollars could actually go farther if they spend it somewhere else.

So where in Southeast Asia can one get the comforts of Westernized living while still within arm’s reach of nature; dining out five times a week and enjoying happy hour as often without busting one’s bank account? Where in this corner of Asian landmass could one get health care comparable to, but cheaper than, Singapore; street food as tasty as that of Thailand; cost of living not much higher than Cambodia or Laos; supportive network of expats like that of Thailand; and English language proficiency for easier integration like that of the Philippines?

Malaysia does not easily come to mind, but according to InternationalLiving.com, Malaysia – at least in this part of the world – is it.

Malaysia Named Top 3 Retirement Haven

Malaysia has recently been named as the online magazine’s Top 3 retirement haven, bested only by Ecuador and Panama in first and second spot, respectively. Using their Annual Global Retirement Index, InternationalLiving.com scored Malaysia high in amenities and entertainment options, healthcare, cost of living and cultural integration. For US$1,700, expatriates can easily maintain seaside and mountain-top vacation homes, shuttle back and forth between the two, hire domestic help, dine out five times a week, purchase sufficient medical coverage, and own transport on both land and water. In short, expatriates can live well on far less than the same amount if they were to live in North America or Europe.

Malaysia is Most Charming Asian Island Destination in 2013

It also doesn’t hurt that Malaysia has also been voted as the Most Charming Asian Island Destination for 2013 by New Voyage Magazine. The publication cited the country’s pristine beaches, lush jungles, well-preserved wildlife on land and in water, among many desirable qualities.

Langkawi, in particular, deserves special mention, as it is the country’s beach mecca for luxury vacation. It also plays host to majestic natural formations and untouched vegetation inscribed as World Geopark by UNESCO in 2007. There is also George Town in Penang, another UNESCO World Heritage Site for its colonial architecture and cuisine among others. Sipadan Island off the east coast of Sabah is diving hotspot, along with countless others on this side of Oceania.

If that accolade is not enough to secure the status of Malaysia as a truly charming destination, then it would to note that the United Nations’ World Trade Organization has consistently included Malaysia in its Top 10 Tourism Highlights List since 2009. For the last three years, Malaysia has earned the 9th spot in this venerable list of destinations that attract at least 20 million tourists a year, to say nothing of billions of dollars in tourism revenue.

Malaysia is “Halal” Destination for Muslim Travelers

As an interfaith destination, Malaysia is the friendliest to Muslim travelers compared to 50 other countries reviewed for their “halal” tour packages. (Because Muslims strictly adhere to their faith, they are forbidden to partake in certain activities or consume certain foods that are considered “unclean.”) Culturally, this means a more varied experience for expatriates who may be wary of traveling to other Muslim-dominant countries for fear of perceived prejudice towards Western travelers.

With all these desirable attributes coming together in one neat package, who could say that Malaysia is only for people over 50? Apparently, Malaysia has loads more to offer, whether for children aged 5, or old people aged 95.

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But the sad truth is that, endangered as orangutans may be, protection of their habitats is often left to chance, and this allows humans to encroach further and deeper into orangutan territory. Heartbreaking tales of illegal logging and poaching are common stories that cause the orangutans’ dwindling population, but they are not without hope. The tide of habitat loss can still be reversed. Even more so now that a new subspecies of orangutans have been discovered in Sarawak, a Malaysian province on the island of Borneo.

The jungles of Sungai Menyang were recently surveyed, and an encouraging discovery makes conservation an even more urgent matter that both the immediate community and the local government should hunker down into. Amidst the glum statistics of orangutan population, the said survey discovered Pongo pygmaeus pygmaeus, a sub-species of hairy apes that dwell in the Bornean jungles. Following this discovery, the Sarawak government plans to set aside a protected area for this new species’ habitat.

Certainly, tourism potential will follow, as the gazetted area will likely be declared a national park. Tourism and ecological balance can be achieved, albeit delicately, if Malaysian government’s action on Sipadan is any indication. (The government had forcibly evacuated dive operators out of Sipadan, an island off Sabah coast, to allow its marine ecosystem to recover.)

Newly-discovered species indeed brings hope into an otherwise glum future of threatened animals, but this is not the only reason why conservation measures in Malaysia should be done diligently. Borneo hosts a staggering inventory of flowering plant species (15,000 of them), trees (3,000), mammals (221), freshwater fish (440) and birds (420).

Historically, the jungles of Borneo have been the center of evolution of many of these species, and a critical refuge to some of the world’s threatened forest characters: civets, clouded leopard, fruit bats, Sumatran rhinoceros and Asian elephants. Ecologically, the Bornean jungles form the nexus of evolution from which other species may be borne. It is as important to give species that are just coming to life a chance as it is important to sustain species that are swinging at the end of their rope.

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Take for instance Fodor’s 7 Affordable Destinations for 2013. There certainly are plenty of places in Southeast Asia where a dollar goes a long, long way, and Cambodia is one of them. Throw in ancient archaelogical wonders like Angkor Wat and you have got a winner.

Then you have Conde Nast saying in its Destinations to Watch in 2013 that Maldives is out, Philippines is in! Those in the loop already know this, but given the massive campaign of the Department of Tourism that “It’s More Fun in the Philippines”, the country is indeed poised to invade the global beach scene.

And Lonely Planet has a word to say: Palawan. Also named one of the Hot 20 Destinations of 2012 by National Geographic, Palawan is indeed revving up for the influx of tourists that has been arriving and and are yet to come. Despite the fact that it can get elbow-to-elbow when visiting the now world-famous Puerto Princesa Underground River, Palawan still has plenty to offer. There’s El Nido, Coron, San Vicente, Port Barton (Sabang), and Balabac Island. And if you dare to explore the 7,000 others, the list could as well be endless.

In its Best Trips for 2013, National Geographic names Myanmar, along with world-favorite Indonesia, in the top 20. Indonesia, of course, needs no introduction, but it is worth mentioning that Raja Ampat, off the coast of West Papua, is the oceanic sister of the Amazon. Philippines has it too (Tubbataha Reefs) and so does Malaysia (Sipadan).

But Burma has a different appeal.

Largely ignored by mainstream travelers for the longest time, the country once named Burma took the spotlight once again when its homegrown champion of democracy, the house-arrested Nobel laureate Aung San Suu Kyi, earned a seat in the parliament. Today, because of its reclusion from outside influences, places outside Yangon and Mandalay seem frozen in time. Get ready for pagoda fatigue as you stroll along the banks of Ayeyarwady River.

Travel and Leisure still maintains that Philippines is more than just a side trip. You must have already heard countless times about Boracay, but what about the highlands of Nepal? Not technically Southeast Asian, Nepal is one of the favorite circuits of pedal pushers and summit seekers. Time to get to know it more this year.

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Cultural Diversity

Like most of the Southeast Asian countries, Malaysia is composed of people from various ethnicities, cultures and faiths. It’s main ethnic groups are the Malays, the Chinese and the Indians. While the culture of these groups remain individually strong among the modern Malaysians, many habits, etiquette and practices are influenced by the British colonizers. Further signs of these influences can also be seen in food, art, architecture and even political practices.

Malaysia has approximately 137 living languages that is spoken throughout the country. However, the official language is a standard form of Malay language called Malaysian, while English is the second language and used for teaching math and science in public schools. Dialects of Chinese such as Cantonese and Mandarin are used by the Chinese-Malaysians, while Tamil is used by the Malaysian Indians. As a tourist, don’t be surprised to hear different languages and tones wherever you go. Don’t be afraid to speak up in English though, as people do understand and speak it.

City Life and Festivals

Most visitors to Malaysia come to the nation’s capital first. They usually stay a few days in one of the Kuala Lumpur hotels and explore the very modern city, which is still full of history and culture.  Have a photo taken at the iconic Petronas Twin Towers, or shop around the local bazaars and stores for souvenirs. Take look around the city’s various temples and mosques. Malaysia’s constitutions states that Islam is the country’s official religion, but it also makes provisions for a genuine religious freedom.

Many traditions and festivals are strongly rooted in religion, and Malaysia observes quite a number of these each year. Among the holidays that the whole country observes is Hari Merdeka (Independence Day), Labour Day, and the King’s Birthday. Holidays that are specific to certain religion are also observed and respected. Islamic holidays number the most, such as Hari Raya Puasa and Hari Raya Haji. Holidays like the Chinese New Year and Thaipusam are also widely celebrated. Don’t be surprised if your visit to Malaysia would coincide with a holiday. Consider it a cultural education and enjoy yourself.

If you want to learn more about Malaysia, try visiting one of the museums that can be found in KL.  The Petronas Gallery is easily accessible, while the National Museum of Malaysia holds a rich display of artefacts that show the country’s history and growth. However, the various cities and towns of Malaysia, such as Malacca, are historical locations in itself.

Beach Getaways and Adventure

Outside Kuala Lumpur, your choices are endless. Malaysia’s landscape gives it a very tropical feel, yet there are places around the country that are different from the usual beaches and tropical getaways. For those who wish to take a relaxing beachside vacation, Langkawi in the state of Kedah is the most popular choice among travelers. For those who like to dive, Layang-Layang is considered to be the best because of the very diverse marine life. Tioman in the state of Pahang is also a popular choice, not to mention Kota Kinabalu in Sabah.

For a the more adventurous travelers, you can chose to explore the forests that cover about two-thirds of Malaysia. Langkawi has three geoparks you can choose from, while Kota Kinabalu offers majestic wildlife up the slopes of Mt. Kinabalu. Taman Negara National Park in Pahang also offers great tours and lets you experience life in a rainforest.

Travelers seeking reprieve from the country’s consistent tropical and humid weather by visiting  the hill station Cameron Highlands and hilltop resort, Genting Highlands.

Great Food Choices

All across the country, you will never be without great choices for mouthwatering food. KL offers a gamut of choices from hawker stalls to five star restaurants.  The Inner City of George Town in Penang offers traditional Chinese, Indian and Malay dishes, but you can also have your pick of dishes that are a fusion of the various cultural influences that make Malaysia a unique place to visit. In nearly all parts of the country, have your afternoon snack with traditional British tea, or the more traditional teh tarik, pulled tea made with black tea and condensed milk. Klang in Selangor offers the best choice for seafoods and is reputed to be the home of the best chicken claypot in the country.

Truly Asia

Malaysia markets itself as “Truly Asia” in their tourism ads, and rightly so. With its people, rich cultural heritage and respect for various faiths, Malaysia embodies the best of there is about  this part of the world.

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The two countries are presently involved in a territorial dispute concerning Sabah, Malaysia’s easternmost state and second largest after Sarawak. Sabah shares a border with Indonesia’s East Kalimantan, and a motorboat distance from Southern Philippines’ Sulu Archipelago (hence, Sulu’s reputation as a back door to Malaysia).

The heirs to the Sultanate of Sulu, who recently declared a “homecoming,” claim that Sabah was only leased to the British North Borneo Company, but that the sultanate never relinquished its sovereignty over the territory. For its part, Malaysia considers Sabah its legal territory because its actual residents elected to be part of the Malaysian Federation in the 1963 polls. The International Court of Justice granted Sabah to Malaysia on this premise.

The recent friction over this territorial ownership has generated concerns that tourism may slow down or that tourists may be stranded while the standoff ensues. The Malaysian government, however, reported that tourism, particularly those routed to Kota Kinabalu in Northwest Borneo (the larger land mass of which Sabah is only a part of), remains unaffected despite the situation. (Lahad Datu, where the actual stand off drama unfolds, is opposite Kota Kinabalu, on the east coast of Northern Borneo.)

On the Philippine side, however, travel to Sulu and member provinces of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (which includes the provinces of Basilan, Lanao del Sur, Maguindanao and Tawi-Tawi) may pose serious risks as no one is reportedly allowed to enter nor leave Sulu as the incursion (or departure) may be construed as attempting to give the Sultan’s men aid or spying for the Sultanate.

One of the southwesternmost provinces of the Philippines, Sulu has long been a political hotbed and an oft off-limit destination to mainstream travelers because of the risk its political situation poses. Only the most intrepid travelers dare to cross over to the “Bangsamoro” (literally, Moro nation) territory if only to cross out all the Philippine provinces off their bucket list. Indeed, travelers earn bragging rights if they do make it back to the “Philippines” in one piece. (Bangsamoro has long existed before the Spanish conquest, and consider themselves a sovereign people.)

Frequently beset by insurgencies (or as mainstream Filipino media portrays), Sulu’s potential for tourism has been largely eclipsed by regular reports of civilians and travelers getting kidnapped or caught in crossfire.

The Sulu Archipelago – that chain of islands that jut out of southwest Philippines and reach out to Borneo – is home to some of the most pristine beaches in the country explored by only those determined enough to see the province for what it really is and not what the popular tri-media portrays it to be. Their efforts and stout-heartedness are always rewarded with staggering beach views that even the locals are not privy to. Panampangan Beach off the coast of Tawi-Tawi (one of the provinces in the Sulu Archipelago) has only been recently “discovered” by a local travel blogger who was the first “outsider” to have gleaned an inside view to Sulu’s natural wonders.

Whatever natural beauty Sulu exudes beneath the surface is largely upstaged by news of political unrest. Even the Philippine government’s recent effort to boost tourism by constructing a hostel in Kahikukuk, a small island village floating in the vastness of Celebes Sea, now appears to be cancelled out by the current peace and order situation. Unless the situation in this part of the Philippines drastically changes, then Panampangan Beach and all other beaches in this corner of the country may well remain undiscovered.

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Like India, Malaysia has a long list of public holidays that apply to all states and apply to only a few states. Below is Malaysia public holiday schedule 2017 with celebrations that are observed nationwide. (Gregorian New Year is observed in all states except in Johor, Kedah, Kelantan, Perlis and Terangganu.)

New Year’s Day – Sunday, January 1 2017

Like any other countries globally, Malaysia also celebrates the New Year except in some states like Perlis, Kelantan, Johor, Terennganu and Kedah. Fireworks display filled the air along with enthusiastic celebrations of festive meal family get together. This is the time which is believed to abound prosperity, peace and love in the country.

New Year’s Day (observed) – Monday, January 2 2017

Maulidur Rasul – Saturday, 14 January 2017
Being a predominantly Muslim nation, Malaysia celebrates the Birthday of Prophet Muhammad in all states. This day is marked with the reading of the Koran and listening to sermons in mosques.

Chinese New Year – Saturday to Sunday, 28 January 2017 to 29 January 2017
Roughly 30% of Malaysians are of Chinese descent. On this day, Chinatowns are ablaze with red lanterns and are filled with the sounds and colors of lion and dragon dancing. Children get red envelopes called “ang pow” stuffed with crisp bills (not coins). Malaysian Chinese sometimes open their homes to anyone “open-house” style and invite everybody to the banquet.

Labor Day – Monday, 1 May 2017
Like the rest of the international community, Malaysia honors the social and economic contributions of their laborers to the advancement of their economy.

Wesak – Wednesday, 10 May 2017
Although 60% of Malaysians are Muslims, 30% are of Chinese descent and many of them follow the teachings of Buddha. For these Buddhist Chinese, the most important religious festival of the year is Wesak which celebrates the birth, enlightenment and death of Buddha. On this day, the devout make merits and perform acts of kindness like giving donations to the poor and the monks, lighting candles and burning incense and joss sticks at Buddhist shrines and temples, and reflecting on the precepts of Buddhism. This is also the day when Buddhists abstain from eating meat and consume vegetarian meals instead.

King’s Birthday – Saturday, 3 June 2017
This holiday celebrates the birthday of Yang Di-Pertuan Agong XIV. On this day, he will mark the occasion by inspecting the troops assembled in Merdeka Square in Kuala Lumpur. The rest of the day’s festivities are centered around “Trooping the Colour.”

Hari Raya Puasa – Monday and Tuesday, 26 to 27 June 2017
Fasting is considered one of the Five Pillars of Islam. Hari Raya Puasa marks the end of this month long abstinence from food, sexual relations, and using profanities from sun up to sun down. After a long period of abstinence, the end of fasting is celebrated with extravagant banquets.

Merdeka Day – Thursday, 31 August 2017
On this day in 1957, the British flag was lowered and the Malaysian flag was hoisted for the first time. To commemorate the country’s independence, the people join the Hari Merdeka Parade and elaborately decorated floats in Merdeka Square in Kuala Lumpur. Key personalities and top officials of the Malaysian government inspect the troops on this day.

Hari Raya Haji – Friday and Saturday, 1 September 2017 to 2 September 2017
The Feast of Sacrifice is one other major Islamic festival along with Hari Raya Puasa. On this day, families sacrifice four-legged animals according to established rites and distribute the meat to poor families. It is also during this day that the pilgrimage season to Mecca, one of the Five Pillars of Islam, ends.

Malaysia Day – Saturday, 16 September 2017
On this day in 1963, the Federation of Malaysia was established. Malaya, North Borneo, Sarawak and Singapore joined together to form what is today known as Malaysia, although Singapore later broke free from this union. The Malaysian flag is proudly waved on this day, and people join grand celebrations that feature cultural performances, indigenous music and extravagant fireworks held all over the country, with Merdeka Square in Kuala Lumpur the center of festivities.

Awal Muharram – Friday, 22 September 2017
The Islamic New Year is marked with prayer gatherings and reciting of verses from the Koran. Sermons are held in public spaces and mosques while the devout reflect on the past year and make resolutions for the new.

Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday – Friday, 1 December 2017
This is a purely religious festival to Muslims in Malaysia. This is to commemorate the birthday of the Prophet Muhammad last 570 AD. Prayers, sermons, Koran recital verses and other religious activities are done. Muhammad’s birthplace in Mecca was transformed into a place of prayer.

Christmas Day – Monday, 25 December 2017
Malaysian Christians celebrate the birth of their savor on this day by spending the holidays with their families. The usual tradition of gift-giving includes the bestowing of “ang pow”, red envelopes that contain crisp bills, to children instead of the usual boxed gifts.

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Standing on their own

In early 1956, several Malayan leaders led by Tunku Abdul Rahman negotiated with the British for Malaya’s independence. After much discussion and debate, the approval was given and August 31, 1957 became the official date.

“Merdeka! Merdeka!”

On the eve of August 31, 1957, citizens gathered at the Royal Selangor Club Padang in Kuala Lumpur for the turnover ceremonies. Several state leaders and foreign dignitaries were in attendance. The lights were turned off for two minutes, and re-lit at the stroke of midnight. The British Union Jack was lowered and the new Flag of Malaya was raised as the national anthem “Negaraku” played. The people chanted “Merdeka” seven times.

On the morning of the same date, an estimated 20,000-plus people celebrated their country’s sovereignty at the Merdeka Stadium, also in Kuala Lumpur. Rulers of the Malay states were present, as were members of the federal cabinet, foreign leaders and dignitaries and of course, the citizens.

The Federation of Malaysia

Six years to the day after Malaya’s independence, a move was made to officially declare the Federation of Malaysia. This comprised the States of Malaysia (now West Malaysia), North Borneo (now Sabah), Sarawak and Singapore. However, due to protests from Indonesia and the Philippines (who was considering the use of the name “Malaysia”), this declaration was moved to September 16.

However, North Borneo and Singapore had declared sovereignty on August 31, 1963 (two years later, Singapore would officially separate from Malaysia). Indonesia continued their protests against the formation in the belief it would colonize some provinces in Sarawak and Sabah that they had claim on. To resolve this conflict and show their good intentions, Malaysia worked with the United Nations and the Cobbold Commission to get a general vote from the people of the said provinces are willing to join Malaysia. The response was overwhelmingly positive, and nothing stood in the way of Malaysia’s declaration.

On September 16, 1963, the Federation of Malaysia was announced. This day is noted as Malaysia Day and is considered a public holiday only in East Malaysia. The country’s Independence day remains fixed on August 31.

Hari Merdeka Celebrations

In 2013, Malaysia will celebrate its 56th Hari Merdeka. Since 1970, each year is given a specific theme, often with a customized logo and song. No theme has been set for 2013 yet, but it usually reflects the patriotic spirit of the Malaysians.

Hari Merdeka Parade

On August 31, crowds gather for the Hari Merdeka Parade. This event is usually held at Merdeka Square, but has been held in other locations in order to bring the celebrations to other parts of Malaysia. In the past few years, the parade has been held thrice in Putrajaya, Malaysia’s administrative government center.

Esteemed guests like the Yang di-Pertuan Agong, his consort, ministers, government and military officials occupy the prime spot for viewing the parade. While ceremonies by the military, such as the Flypast and the March past are integral parts of the parade, what captures the attention of the people are the floats. Each parade has various floats that are often sponsored by various businesses and corporations. These floats have elaborate designs and unique features, and some are big enough for several people to stand on.

Citizens line up the streets to observe the parade, and it is clearly a very enjoyable occasion. Many roads are closed and traffic is routed to alternative streets so that citizens will be able to watch the parade and not be inconvenienced.

Month-long celebrations

While August 31 remains the official date of the public holiday, celebrations for Hari Merdeka start nearly a month earlier and is tagged as Merdeka Month. Various events, programs and activities relating to Malaysia’s independence are held throughout August.

Hari Merdeka is an important holiday for Malaysia, as it shows the country’s strength and unity.

Photos by amrufm and amrufm

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During my trip to Malaysia, I wanted to try some of the sweets they had. I could’ve easily grabbed some chocolate from the convenience store, but I can get those at home. What I’m looking for are traditional sweets that I may not find anywhere else.

Rice and Coconut Desserts

Like many of its neighboring countries, Malaysia is big on rice and coconuts. It’s no surprise that their desserts make use of these products. Yes, it’s not just for main dishes, but also for sweets.

Kuih talam is a layered dessert, with coconut-rice flour on one, and green pea pandan for the other. It’s chewy and sweet, and if you’re not used to a heavy dessert, take only a small bite.

What grabs my eye on the dessert table are these finger-sized desserts that look like small spring rolls, but they’re green. I learned that it’s kuih ketayap, soft, crepe-like pandan-flavored rice flour cakes filled with shredded coconut sweetened with palm sugar. Imagine that, a decadent dessert made with such basic ingredients. I’m loving it.

Chinese Origin Desserts

The Chinese is one of the more prominent ethnic groups in Malaysia, therefore it’s not surprising to see desserts that are Chinese in origin. Take your pick of any of the dessert soups: fruits, nuts and beans boiled in sweet syrup, sometimes flavored with almond. The cold ones are refreshing.

An array of prepared Chinese desserts such as mooncake can be purchased from bakeshops for an easy sweet treat.

Simple Banana Fritters and Durian

Pisang goreng or banana fritters is probably the simplest to cook, and can be done even at home. Eggs, some flour, cinnamon and sugar for the flavor and of course, bananas. Coat the bananas with the egg and flour mix, fry and then sprinkle some cinnamon sugar.

A dessert that goes well with your coffee is kuih bahulu. The ingredients are not unlike those of Western cakes pastries (it includes eggs, vanilla, wheat flour and baking powder), but it’s a popular dessert for Malaysians. It can be stored for the long term, but it will lose its soft, dry texture after a while.

Also note that the durian fruit is a popular flavor for some desserts. Unlike some fruits that lose a little of its flavor when cooked, the durian’s remain strong. If you find it a little too pungent, approach durian-flavored desserts with caution.

As to any eating experience, take only little pieces when you are faced with an array of choices. In that sense, you get to taste more. Enjoy your sweet Malaysian treats!

Photos by avlxyz, jbcurio, avlxyz and zoyachubby

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There are many legends that are attached to Deepavali, but the most common among of all these is based on the story of how Lord Sri Krishna defeated the tyrannical king Narakasura. As the story goes, Narakasura was blessed by God and given a kingdom to rule. However, his subjects did not like how he ruled, so they prayed to Lord Sri Krishna for help. The defeat of Narakasura happened during the night of the new moon, and the people lit clay lamps to welcome Lord Krishna home. This practice continues to this day, and Deepavali is considered to be a celebration of how good defeats evil.

The holiday is also associated with the goddess of wealth Lakshmi, as the Deepavali falls on the day that most Indian business communities begin their new financial year. It is believed that she walks around the Earth looking for places where she would be made welcome, therefore Hindus light candles and welcome guests into their homes for the festivities.

Celebrated around the world

Deepavali is celebrated not just in India, but in countries where there are followers of the Hindu faith. Both Singapore and Malaysia consider this as an important holiday, celebrated not just by the Hindus and Indians, but by many citizens, tourists and visitors of various faiths. Traditionally, Deepavali lasts for five days, so expect plenty of activities and wonderful sights to experience.

2013 Date

Because it follows the Hindu lunar calendar, the date of the holiday changes when looking at the Gregorian calendar. In 2013, the Ministry of Manpower of Singapore has declared that Deepavali will fall on November 3 (Sunday), but they also advised that the date be checked against the Indian Almanac for possible changes. Since Deepavali falls on Sunday, the next day, November 4 (Monday), will be marked as a public holiday.

Singapore Celebrations

Singaporeans celebrate Deepavali as one community, but most of the celebrations are centered in Little India. One of the most anticipated events for this holiday is the Deepavali Street Light Up, which often occurs almost a month before the actual Deepavali date. A Switch-On ceremony marks the official start of the Deepavali celebrations, filing the streets with fantastic light displays that are arranged in themes and captivating patterns. Buildings and establishments from Selegia Road all the way to Serangoon Road go all out with lights and decorations bursting with bright colors.

The Deepavali is also the perfect time for visitors to experience the Singaporean culture. Many cultural shows and performances by local artists are seen, and it is not just by the Indians, but also by other ethnic groups. In 2012, there was a Deepavali Heritage and Crafts Exhibition, which showcased the origins of Deepavali and the traditions associated with it, and I believe this is a yearly attraction.

Modern Adaptations

A modern Singaporean way of welcoming Deepavali is the Countdown Concert. Think of it as the equivalent to New York’s New Year’s Countdown. Here, many musicians and celebrities from Singapore and abroad perform for the audience, and fireworks will mark the holiday at the stroke of midnight.

In the past years, Deepavali celebrations also host a bazaar called the Deepavali Festival Village. Stall after stall have various items on sale, including ethnic Indian wear, jewelry and handmade artwork. These stalls also offer traditional festival items and food, like sweets, spices and cookies.

Continuing Traditions

Despite these modern changes to the Deepavali, many old traditions still hold fast to Singapore’s way of celebrating the holiday. It is tradition to wear new clothes, and some even have their hands decorated with temporary tattoos drawn with henna dye.

The Indians are also fond of sweets, and sharing various sweet delicacies is an important tradition in Deepavali. After performing the traditional prayers associated with the holiday, families, relatives and visitors are offered these blessed treats that are said to “symbolize the sweetness and happiness of a person’s life.”

It is also common for fireworks to be lit on the celebrations of Deepavali. Like the Chinese, the Hindus believe that the loud noise and bright lights will chase away bad fortune and usher in the good ones.

Malaysia Hari Diwali

Many Malaysians refer to the holiday as Hari Diwali, and their celebrations are also lavish and grandiose. There is no holding back when it comes to decorations, and nearly the whole country is decked out for the occasion. Families begin the day with a ritual oil bath called “ganga-snanam” to cleanse away their impurities from last year. Prayers are said at the family altar, and many visit their elders to pay their respects and receive blessings. A lavish meal is prepared that everyone partakes in.

Open house tradition

Malaysians have a unique tradition of opening up their homes to guests, family or otherwise, during festival celebrations and it is no exception during Diwali. Malaysians of various races and faiths are welcomed and ask to join in the celebration. In many instances, tourists even get to experience this show of goodwill and friendship.

Art for Prosperity

When visiting a Malaysian Hindu’s home during Diwali, you may notice intricate designs and patterns on the ground in front of their homes. These designs are called kolam, and is a form of South Indian art that makes use of rice powder or chalk that are dyed with different colors. A kolam is said to bring prosperity to homes, and are often seen during special occasions.

As with other Malaysian celebrations, children receive gifts of money from their elders similar to the “ang pau” envelopes the Chinese give out during birthdays and New Year. Oil lamps are not lit by most, but more modern lights are used as decoration. Firecrackers and bamboo cannons, however, are not allowed to prevent from causing injuries to people.

Batu Cave celebrations

The Batu Caves is considered to be one of the most important sites for Malaysian Hindus. Celebrations at the caves’ temple complex are often the highlight of the holiday. Crowds gather early in the morning for a feast of vegetarian dishes.

During Diwali, the Malaysians make it a point to share their blessings with the less fortunate. It is also a practice done during other festive occasions.

Most of all, Deepavali is an important holiday to be with your loved ones and treasured friends.

Photos by Balaji Dutt, chooyutshing, chooyutshing, chooyutshing and Johnragai

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When it comes to monarchy, what we know is mostly based on the European royalty. Their positions are hereditary, meaning that it gets passed on from generation to generation from father to son, and sometimes, from mother to daughter.

In Malaysia, their king is called a Yang di-Pertuan Agong. But unlike that of the European monarchy, Malaysia’s king is elected. This is a constitutional provision that was introduced in 1957, when the British rule was coming to an end. Malaysia has fourteen states, nine of which have a hereditary ruler. These nine leaders make up the Conference of Rulers, who then vote for the next Yang di-Pertuan Agong. The elected leader will then hold the position for the next five years. He also appoints a regent who will act as the head of state for the one which he rules as he will be absent from these duties during his term as the Yang di-Pertuan Agong.

While in many ways the role of the Yang di-Pertuan Agong is ceremonial, he still holds certain power in the government. He has the power to appoint the Prime Minister following strict and clear guidelines. However, many of his functions need the advice of several people, including the Prime Minister, the Cabinet and the Conference of Rulers.

The 14th Yang di-Pertuan Agong

The current Yang di-Pertuan Agong is Sultan Abdul Halim of Kedah. Elected last December 2011, he holds the distinction of being voted into position twice (he was king from 1970 to 1975). He is also the oldest sultan elected into position, at the age of 83.

The King’s Birthday

The celebration of the King’s Birthday is constitutionally fixed on the first Saturday of June each year. This means the date varies each year, but it is an occasion that is looked forward to by the Malaysians. But expect no less than pomp and grandeur when this day rolls in, as it is an important holiday for all of Malaysia.

In 2013, Malaysia will celebrate this national public holiday on June 1 (Saturday).

A big to-do is held at the Merdeka Square in Kuala Lumpur. The Trooping the Colour, a very British tradition that was adapted by the Malaysians for their own celebrations, is done in honor of the Yang di-Pertuan Agong. He takes these honors and inspects the troops alongside the commanders of Malaysia’s three services: The Malaysian Armed Forces, the Joint Forces Command and the Malaysian Armed Forces Council. Instead of walking or riding a horse, the inspection is done with the king riding on an open-top Land Rover. The Yang di-Pertuan Agong wears dress uniforms, as does the eight other state monarchs. While it may seem like a simple celebration, it’s actually quite elaborate and unique and can last for more than an hour.

The Trooping the Colour is open to the general public. However, only special and invited guests are allowed within the parade grounds and past security. Radio Televisyen Malaysia broadcasts the ceremonies live to the whole country. Along with these rites, awards and medals are also given to notable Malaysians in conjunction with the King’s Birthday. Often, cultural shows and exhibitions are held all over the country in honor of the event.

Photo by Omar.salahudin

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