New Year’s Day in Malaysia
New Year’s Day falls on January 1, but Malaysia does not observe it as a public holiday nationwide. Its official status depends on the state or federal territory, so residents and visitors should check local holiday and opening schedules.[1][2]
A regional public holiday
The federal government’s holiday schedule lists New Year’s Day for Kuala Lumpur, Labuan, Putrajaya, Melaka, Negeri Sembilan, Pahang, Perak, Penang, Sabah, Sarawak and Selangor. It is not listed for Johor, Kedah, Kelantan, Perlis or Terengganu. The Cabinet Division publishes separate federal and state holiday schedules, so check the relevant location’s notice for the applicable calendar.[1]
The Holidays Act 1951 provides for public holidays in Peninsular Malaysia and gives state authorities and the minister responsible for federal territories powers to designate additional holidays. Sabah and Sarawak have their own public-holiday ordinances. This regional framework is why January 1 does not create a single nationwide day off.[1][2]
What the date marks
New Year’s Day marks the start of the calendar year on January 1. In Malaysia, the official holiday schedule identifies it as “Tahun Baharu” (“New Year”).[1][3]
New Year’s Eve countdowns and other local events may be held, but their programmes and locations can vary. Check local event listings for what is happening in a particular place.[1]
Days off and local services
A listed public holiday does not mean every employee is automatically off work. The Employment Act 1955 provides paid public holidays for covered employees and sets out how employers select holidays and handle substitutions; the exact entitlement depends on the applicable rules and the employee’s work arrangements. The Act’s general substitution provision applies when a qualifying holiday falls on a rest day or another covered public holiday.[4]
Government counters are closed where New Year’s Day is a public holiday. Banks, shops and transport services may follow different schedules. Check directly with the office, bank, business or operator you plan to use, especially when travelling across state or territory boundaries.[1]
Frequently asked questions
Is New Year’s Day a public holiday throughout Malaysia?
No. The official schedule lists it in Kuala Lumpur, Labuan, Putrajaya, Melaka, Negeri Sembilan, Pahang, Perak, Penang, Sabah, Sarawak and Selangor; it is not listed for the other states.[1]
When is New Year’s Day?
It is on January 1 each year.[3]
Does everyone get the day off?
Not necessarily. Public-holiday coverage and paid leave depend on the applicable law and employment arrangements; check your employer’s holiday notice.[4]
Are banks, shops and public offices open?
Check opening hours with government offices and banks before you go. Bank, shop and transport hours vary by location and service, so confirm directly before you go.[1]
Sources and references
Sources used for New Year's Day in Malaysia:
- Jadual Hari Kelepasan Am Persekutuan dan Negeri 2026- Bahagian Kabinet, Perlembagaan dan Perhubungan Antara Kerajaan, Jabatan Perdana Menteri
- Holidays Act 1951 (Act 369)- Bahagian Kabinet, Perlembagaan dan Perhubungan Antara Kerajaan, Jabatan Perdana Menteri
- CUTI TAHUN BAHARU- Majlis Keselamatan Negara, Jabatan Perdana Menteri
- Employment Act 1955- Department of Labour Peninsular Malaysia, Ministry of Human Resources