Festivals and Celebrations in Malaysia
 
Daily Life :: Festivals & Celebrations

Hari Raya Aidilfitri (pronounced HAH-ree RYE-ah ih-dih-FIT-rih) marks the end of Ramadan, a month of fasting for Muslims. People - dressed in their very best - visit relatives and friends to exchange well wishes. This is a 2-day holiday but celebrations usually go on for a week.


Chinese New Year is a 3-day holiday but festivities last 15 days. On the eve, family members gather for a reunion dinner. During the festive season, children and singles receive red packets with money. It is customary to bring along tangerines when a visit is made to relatives and friends during the festive season.


Deepavali (pronounced dee-PAH-vah-lee), also known as the "festival of lights", is a Hindu holiday. It celebrates the victory of light (good) over darkness (evil). Indians start the day with family prayers and a special breakfast. Then, guests arrive to visit and feast.