How many national holidays in Malaysia?
Malaysia, a Southeast Asian country known for its rich cultural diversity and scenic landscapes, celebrates a total of 11 national holidays. These holidays are designed to honor significant historical events, religious festivals, and cultural traditions that hold great importance in the country’s history and society.
The first national holiday is New Year’s Day, celebrated on January 1st, which marks the beginning of the Gregorian calendar. This is followed by Chinese New Year, which is the most important festival for the ethnic Chinese community in Malaysia. It falls on the first day of the Chinese lunar calendar and is usually observed in late January or early February.
Continuing the celebration of cultural diversity, the nation commemorates Deepavali, also known as Diwali, on the 13th or 14th day of the Hindu lunar month of Kartik. This festival of lights is celebrated by the Hindu community to mark the victory of good over evil and the return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya after defeating the demon king Ravana.
Next on the list is Independence Day, celebrated on August 31st, which marks the day in 1957 when Malaysia gained independence from British colonial rule. This day is a public holiday and is often celebrated with various events and parades across the country.
Other national holidays include:
– National Day (Hari Merdeka): Celebrated on August 31st, it commemorates the independence of Singapore from Malaysia in 1965.
– Malaysia Day: Celebrated on September 16th, it marks the formation of Malaysia in 1963.
– Hari Raya Puasa: Celebrated at the end of the Islamic holy month of Ramadan, it is a significant religious holiday for Muslims in Malaysia.
– Hari Raya Haji: Celebrated on the 10th day of the Islamic month of Dhu al-Hijjah, it marks the end of the annual pilgrimage to Mecca.
– Christmas Day: Celebrated on December 25th, it is a public holiday for Christians in Malaysia.
In addition to these national holidays, Malaysia also observes other public holidays such as Good Friday, which is a Christian holiday, and the day of the Prophet Muhammad’s birthday, which is celebrated by Muslims. The total number of public holidays in Malaysia, including these, can vary from year to year, depending on the Islamic lunar calendar.
Malaysia’s national holidays not only serve as a reminder of the country’s rich cultural heritage but also promote unity and understanding among its diverse population. The public holidays provide an opportunity for Malaysians to come together, celebrate their traditions, and appreciate the nation’s progress and achievements.
