Israk and Mikraj 2026, 2027
Israk and Mikraj is an important religious observance for Muslims, commemorating the miraculous night journey of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). The event holds deep spiritual significance, as it marks the moment when the obligation of the five daily prayers was established. In Malaysia, Israk and Mikraj is widely recognised and observed by the Muslim community, with the day serving as a reminder of faith, discipline, and devotion.
Israk and Mikraj is observed as a public holiday in several Malaysian states, including Kedah, Negeri Sembilan, Perlis, Terengganu.
In 2026, Israk and Mikraj falls on 17 Jan, Saturday, while in 2027 it falls on 6 Jan, Wednesday.
Current and Upcoming Years
| Year | Date | Day | Holiday | States | Type | Long Weekend | Observed |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | 17 Jan | Sat | Israk and Mikraj | Kedah, Negeri Sembilan, Perlis, Terengganu | State | Yes | - |
| 2027 | 6 Jan | Wed | Israk and Mikraj | Kedah, Negeri Sembilan, Perlis, Terengganu | State | - | - |
| 2027 | 26 Dec | Sun | Israk and Mikraj | Kedah, Negeri Sembilan, Perlis, Terengganu | State | Yes | - |
| 2027 | 27 Dec | Mon | Israk and Mikraj Holiday | Negeri Sembilan, Perlis | State | Yes | Yes |
Previous Years
| Year | Date | Day | Holiday | States | Type | Long Weekend | Observed |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 8 Feb | Thu | Israk and Mikraj | Kedah, Negeri Sembilan, Perlis, Terengganu | State | Yes | - |
| 2025 | 27 Jan | Mon | Israk and Mikraj | Kedah, Negeri Sembilan, Perlis, Terengganu | State | Yes | - |
In 2026, Israk and Mikraj falls on the 27th day of Rejab in the Islamic calendar. As the Islamic calendar is lunar-based, the exact date changes each year in the Gregorian calendar, depending on moon sightings and official announcements.
Is Israk and Mikraj a Public Holiday in Malaysia?
Israk and Mikraj is observed as a public holiday in several Malaysian states, while in others it is marked as a religious observance without an official day off. Whether it is a public holiday depends on state-level decisions and gazetted holiday lists.
In states where it is officially recognised, government offices, schools, and many businesses may be closed or operate on reduced hours. In other states, religious programmes and mosque activities still take place, even if it remains a normal working day.
Because of these differences, it is always advisable to check state-specific public holiday calendars for 2026, especially when planning work schedules, school activities, or travel.
The Meaning of Israk and Mikraj
Israk and Mikraj refers to two connected events. Israk describes the Prophet Muhammad’s journey from Masjid al-Haram in Makkah to Masjid al-Aqsa in Jerusalem, while Mikraj refers to his ascension through the heavens. During this journey, the commandment for Muslims to perform five daily prayers was ordained.
The event emphasises the importance of prayer, patience, and spiritual discipline. It also serves as a reminder of the close connection between faith and daily life, encouraging reflection and personal growth.
How Israk and Mikraj Is Observed
In Malaysia, Israk and Mikraj is commonly marked by religious talks (ceramah), sermons, and special prayers at mosques and suraus. These gatherings often focus on the lessons of the event, including the importance of prayer, humility, and moral responsibility.
Families may also observe the day quietly at home, using it as an opportunity for reflection and religious learning. While celebrations are generally modest compared to major Islamic festivals, the day holds strong spiritual meaning within the Muslim community.
Public Holiday Practices and Work Arrangements
When Israk and Mikraj is gazetted as a public holiday and falls on a weekday, it is usually observed on that day. If it falls on a weekend, replacement holiday arrangements depend on state guidelines for the year.
Employees in essential services, retail, and hospitality sectors may still be required to work, subject to employer policies and labour regulations. Alternative rest days or compensation may apply depending on workplace arrangements.
Why Israk and Mikraj Matters for Planning
As a movable religious observance, Israk and Mikraj can affect school schedules, business operations, and travel plans—especially in states where it is recognised as a public holiday. Knowing whether the day is observed in your state helps avoid confusion and allows for better planning.
To stay informed, it is recommended to refer to official public holiday announcements and state gazettes for 2026 and Public Holidays Malaysia for 2026, or refer to the School Holidays Malaysia for 2026, as dates may be confirmed closer to the event.