Best time to travel to Malaysia

Location

Climate

The seasons in Malaysia: when to go?

The climate in Malaysia is equatorial, with warm temperatures and high humidity all year round. However, the best time to visit varies from region to region, due to the different monsoons that influence rainfall levels. Here's an overview of the main tourist areas and their weather conditions:

• Malay Peninsula (Kuala Lumpur, Malacca, Penang) : The dry season runs from November to February, while the wet season is from March to October. January and February are the most pleasant months to visit this region.
• East coast of the peninsula (Terengganu, Redang, Perhentian): The ideal time to visit these seaside destinations is during the dry season, from March to October. The period from November to February is marked by the northeast monsoon, with heavy rains and occasional closures of certain establishments.
• Malaysian Borneo (Sabah, Sarawak): The dry season runs from March to September, offering the best conditions for exploring the jungle and diving the nearby islands. The wet season, between October and February, can make some activities more difficult due to heavy rainfall.

Major cultural events not to be missed

Malaysia is rich in traditions and festive events that bear witness to its multicultural heritage. Here is a selection of must-see events to include in your itinerary:

• Thaipusam: Celebrated in January or February, this spectacular Hindu event attracts thousands of pilgrims who pay homage to the god Murugan with impressive processions and acts of devotion.
• Chinese New Year: Between late January and mid-February, Malaysian Chinese communities celebrate the arrival of the Lunar New Year with dragon parades, fireworks and family banquets.
• Hari Raya Aidilfitri: This Muslim festival marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan. It takes place in May or June, according to the Islamic lunar calendar, and is an opportunity for Malaysians to share convivial moments with their loved ones.
• Rainforest International Music Festival: Held annually in Kuching (Sarawak) in July, this festival celebrates the diversity of world music and the richness of Borneo's natural environment.

Public holidays and high season

In addition to specific cultural events, it's also important to take into account national holidays and peak tourist periods when planning your trip. Here are a few things to consider:

• Public holidays : Malaysia has a large number of public holidays due to its religious and ethnic diversity. Among the most important are Hari Merdeka (Independence Day), Malaysia Day, Hari Raya Aidilfitri and Chinese New Year.
• School vacations : The school vacation periods are generally very busy in terms of tourist numbers. They occur three times a year: in March, August and December.
• Christmas and New Year: As in many countries, this festive period attracts many visitors, especially to seaside resorts and major cities. Accommodation rates may be higher and availability limited, so book in advance.

Tips for travelling in low season

The low season offers several advantages for those who want to discover Malaysia without the crowds and at a lower cost:

• Reduced rates : Prices for accommodation, flights and excursions are generally lower in the low season, so you can make the most of your trip.
• Few people : Tourist sites and beaches are less crowded in low season, offering a more authentic and relaxing experience.
• Pleasant climate : Although the weather can be more uncertain and wet during the off-season, temperatures remain warm and showers are often short-lived.

Immigration statistics for Malaysia

Statistical data on immigration in Malaysia can be divided into several categories, such as the number of foreigners present in the country, asylum applications and visas granted.

Number of foreigners in Malaysia

According to official figures, it is estimated that around 3 million foreigners currently reside in Malaysia. This figure includes foreign workers, international students, expatriates and refugees. The main nationalities represented are Indonesian, Bangladeshi, Nepalese, Indian, Vietnamese and Filipino.

Asylum applications in Malaysia

Malaysia is also considered a host country for asylum seekers and refugees. According to the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), approximately 180,000 asylum seekers and refugees are registered with this organization in Malaysia. The majority of these people come from countries in conflict or crisis situations, such as Burma, l'Afghanistanthe Somalia and the Sri Lanka.

Most popular visas in Malaysia

The visas most in demand in Malaysia vary according to the needs and aspirations of foreigners wishing to settle there. Here are some of the most popular visa types:

• Work visa Foreign Worker Visa: This visa is issued to foreigners who have obtained employment in Malaysia. Employers must obtain prior approval from the Ministry of Home Affairs before hiring foreign workers.
• Student Visa This visa is intended for international students wishing to study at a Malaysian higher education institution. To obtain this visa, students must be accepted into a study program approved by the Malaysian government.
• Retirement visa Also known as "Malaysia My Second Home" (MM2H), this program aims to attract wealthy foreign retirees to spend their retirement in Malaysia. Applicants must meet certain financial requirements to qualify.
• Social visit visa Malaysia: this visa is granted to foreigners wishing to visit friends or family in Malaysia, as well as to those coming to the country to take part in social and cultural events.

International tourism figures for Malaysia

As well as being a popular destination for immigration, Malaysia is also a very popular country among international tourists. According to official data, the number of foreign tourists visiting Malaysia has grown steadily in recent years.

Number of international tourists in Malaysia

In 2019, Malaysia welcomed nearly 26 million international touristsThis represents an increase of 1% compared with 2018. Among travelers, the most represented nationalities were Singaporeans, Indonesians, Chinese, Thais and Bruneians.

Revenue generated by international tourism

The tourism sector is a major economic driver for Malaysia. In 2019, revenues generated by international tourism reached around 86 billion Malaysian ringgits (around USD 20 billion), an increase of 2.4% on the previous year.

Popular cities and attractions in Malaysia

The most popular cities and tourist attractions in Malaysia include :

• Kuala Lumpur The capital of the country, with impressive skyscrapers such as the Petronas Towers and a multitude of shopping malls, markets and restaurants.
• Georgetown Penang: a historic city on the island of Penang, famous for its colonial architecture and tasty street food.
• Malacca Another historic town renowned for its rich cultural heritage, picturesque canals and colorful buildings.
• Cameron Highlands A mountainous region with a cool climate and lush green landscapes, ideal for hikers and tea-lovers.
• Borneo The third largest island in the world, home to incredible biodiversity and endemic species such as orangutans and pygmy elephants.

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