5 Unique Cultural Festivals in Malaysia You Should Experience Malaysia is a culturally diverse country with a string of ethnic groups that have engaged in cultural activities that have been in existence for many years. Ranging from the central city of Kuala Lumpur to the beautiful island of Langkawi there is always an enchanting event happening in Malaysia. The cultural festivals of the country can be a good chance to have a closer look at the history of people, their traditions, and their way of life, so you will be able to capture the spirit of Malaysia in a quite deep way.
Malaysia’s festivals range from the celebration of the Chinese New Year parade to the devotion of Thaipusam. Therefore, if you plan to visit this interesting country, it will be very interesting to do it during one of these festivities. It is therefore possible to be a part of these festivals through the right Malaysia Tour Packages which will make your holiday full of memories. So here are the five cultural festivals that are celebrated in Malaysia and that make your trip even more memorable!
Here are the 5 Unique Cultural Festivals in Malaysia You Should Experience: 1. Thaipusam Festival - A Spiritual Journey like No Other
Thaipusam is indeed a very unique celebration that a lot of people – the devotees who go to the Batu Caves in Selangor go to. It is a form of worship in which devotees carry kavadis, which are complex frames that are passed through the skin as a sign of repentance and as a sign of gratitude to Lord Murugan. The barefoot climb of the 272 steps of Batu Caves, and the walking in a procession manner with the kavadis, make it very emotional. Thaipusam is a faith, endurance, and determination and therefore it continues to be a thrilling event for the performers as well as the spectators.
2. Hari Raya Aidilfitri – A Festive End to Ramadan
Aidilfitri celebration is held to celebrate the end of the fasting month of Ramadan as practiced by Muslims all over the world. It is a time of happiness and bonding between loved ones as well as a good time to have a party. Many houses are lit up with lights and awesome designs and the smell of delicious food such as rendang and ketupat can be smelled. The tradition of open houses is particularly important when people invite others into their homes to celebrate together irrespective of the color of their skin. Hari Raya is a warm celebration that gives a glimpse into Malaysian Muslim culture because of the unity and sharing that takes place during the celebration.
3. Chinese New Year – A Celebration of Luck and Prosperity Chinese New Year is one of the most popular celebrations in Malaysia which is marked by colorful processions, dances of the dragon, and the use of firecrackers. This is a Chinese New Year celebration and it is all about reunion with family members, performing rites, and having a feast. One can see and buy red lanterns and decorations, which symbolize luck and prosperity for the next year. In the 15-day festivities, families give out ang pow (red envelopes) and partake in lucky foods that have been prepared. The liveliness and brightness of Chinese New Year make it an interesting period to discover Malaysia’s Chinese culture.
4. Gawai Dayak Festival – A Celebration of the Dayak People Gawai Dayak is observed on 1st June and is a harvest festival of the Dayak people of Sarawak, Borneo. The festival is being celebrated to give thanks for the good harvest and it is always accompanied by cultural activities such as dancing and singing. The Dayak people wear ethnic clothing and go for feasting and the drinking of tuak, rice wine. Joyous celebrations through floats and shows enhance the cheerful environment, and one is free to participate in the celebrations. Gawai Dayak is a very indigenous festival of Malaysia
and it makes the people who want to know more about the culture of their country, meet their expectations.
5. Deepavali – The Festival of Lights Diwali or Deepavali is the Hindu Festival of lights and this festival is being celebrated in Malaysia with much enthusiasm. The festival is also symbolic of the triumph of light over darkness or of good over evil. Oil lamps and kolams are decorated in people’s houses and streets as well as other unique patterns. Fireworks are also used while families gather for dinner and to pray and open gifts. This is perhaps especially realized in areas like Little India in Kuala Lumpur which is defined by cultural troupes and bazaar-like markets to boost festivity. Deepavali symbolizes the right message of culture and religion that illuminates Malaysia’s cultural diversity.
Conclusion: Festivals are always a great way to learn about the culture and traditions of a country and Malaysia is a country blessed with many cultures and traditions. It could be the commitment of Thaipusam, the anticipation of Hari Raya, or the sparkle of Deepavali, to be able to celebrate Malaysia’s diverse history. Not only do these festivals represent the cultures of the country but also the hospitality of the people living there. Any person who is planning to visit the great country of Malaysia should not afford to miss these awesome events. From the glamour of Chinese New Year to the authenticity of Gawai Dayak, these are some of the festivals we have. The right Malaysia Tour Package will ensure that you make the best of your trip and Malaysia Holiday Packages are the best way to enjoy such sites. Hence, let’s pack our bags and set off to find the real essence of Malaysia through its vibrant festivals!
