New Year’s Day 2026, 2027

New Year’s Day marks the beginning of the calendar year and is one of the most widely recognised dates around the world. In Malaysia, the day is commonly associated with fresh starts, reflections on the year gone by, and planning for the months ahead. While celebrations may vary by state and community, New Year’s Day remains an important reference point in the national calendar.

Previous Years

In 2026, New Year’s Day falls on 1 January, as it does every year. The day is observed as a public holiday in most parts of Malaysia, although several states do not officially recognise it as a state holiday. Because of this, whether New Year’s Day is a day off can depend on where you live or work.

Is New Year’s Day a Public Holiday in Malaysia?

New Year’s Day is observed as a public holiday across much of Malaysia, particularly in states and territories that follow a standard Monday–Friday working week. However, it is not observed as a public holiday in Johor, Kedah, Kelantan, Perlis, and Terengganu, where different cultural and religious calendars shape the list of official holidays.

For states where New Year’s Day is recognised, government offices, schools, and many businesses are usually closed. In states where it is not observed, daily activities typically continue as usual, although private companies may choose to grant leave at their own discretion.

Because Malaysia’s public holiday system combines both federal and state-level decisions, it is always advisable to check state-specific holiday listings—especially when planning travel, work schedules, or school activities around the start of the year.

How New Year’s Day Is Commonly Observed

Unlike some major religious festivals, New Year’s Day in Malaysia is generally low-key. Many people use the day to rest after New Year’s Eve celebrations, spend time with family, or prepare for the year ahead. In urban areas, it is common to see fireworks displays and countdown events on the night of 31 December, particularly in city centres.

For others, New Year’s Day is a quiet and reflective occasion. Families may take the opportunity to plan upcoming commitments, set personal goals, or simply enjoy a break before normal routines resume.

Replacement Holidays and Working Arrangements

When New Year’s Day falls on a Sunday in states where it is officially observed, a replacement holiday is typically granted on the following weekday, in line with general public holiday practices. If it falls on a weekday, the day itself is usually observed as the holiday.

Working arrangements may still vary by sector. Essential services, retail businesses, and hospitality providers often continue operating, particularly in tourist areas. Employees in these sectors may receive alternative rest days or compensation according to company policy.

Why New Year’s Day Matters for Planning

Although it may seem like a simple date on the calendar, New Year’s Day plays an important role in annual planning. It often influences school term schedules, business operations, travel demand, and public service availability. Knowing whether the day is observed in your state helps avoid confusion and ensures smoother planning at the start of the year.

To stay informed, it is recommended to check both national and state-level Public Holidays Malaysia for 2026, or refer to the School Holidays Malaysia for 2026, especially as official announcements or updates may be issued closer to the date.