Thaipusam 2026, 2027

Thaipusam is an important Hindu festival celebrated mainly by the Indian community in Malaysia. The festival is dedicated to Lord Murugan, symbolising devotion, sacrifice, and spiritual purification. Each year, thousands of devotees gather at major temples and pilgrimage sites to observe Thaipusam through prayers, offerings, and acts of faith.

Previous Years

In 2026, Thaipusam falls on a date determined by the Tamil calendar, typically in the month of Thai. As the festival follows a lunar cycle, the exact date changes each year in the Gregorian calendar and is confirmed through official announcements.

Is Thaipusam a Public Holiday in Malaysia?

Thaipusam 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. The states that commonly recognise Thaipusam as a public holiday include Selangor, Kuala Lumpur, Putrajaya, Negeri Sembilan, Penang, Perak, and Johor.

In states where Thaipusam is a public holiday, government offices, schools, and many businesses are usually closed or operate on reduced hours. In other states, daily activities may continue as usual, although temples and religious centres still hold large-scale ceremonies.

Because observance varies by state, it is always advisable to check state-specific public holiday calendars for 2026, especially when planning work schedules or travel.

The Meaning and Significance of Thaipusam

Thaipusam commemorates the occasion when Goddess Parvati bestowed a divine spear (vel) upon Lord Murugan, enabling him to overcome evil forces. For devotees, the festival represents gratitude, humility, and spiritual renewal.

Many devotees prepare for Thaipusam through fasting, prayer, and acts of discipline. Offerings such as kavadi—ornate structures carried during processions—symbolise devotion and fulfilment of vows. Some devotees also perform body piercings as an expression of faith, endurance, and surrender.

How Thaipusam Is Observed in Malaysia

Malaysia hosts some of the largest Thaipusam celebrations outside India. The most well-known procession takes place at Batu Caves in Selangor, where devotees climb hundreds of steps to reach the temple complex. Other major celebrations are held at temples in Penang, Perak, and Johor.

Processions often begin in the early hours of the morning and continue throughout the day. Volunteers provide food and drinks along the route, reflecting the spirit of charity and community associated with the festival.

Despite the intensity of the rituals, Thaipusam celebrations are generally peaceful and well-organised, attracting not only devotees but also visitors interested in experiencing the cultural significance of the event.

Work Arrangements and Public Holiday Practices

When Thaipusam 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-level guidelines.

Employees working in essential services, retail, and hospitality sectors may still be required to work, particularly in areas with large crowds and increased tourism. Alternative rest days or compensation may apply according to labour regulations and company policies.

Why Thaipusam Matters for Planning

Thaipusam can significantly affect traffic conditions, public transport schedules, and business operations—especially in areas near major temples. Knowing whether Thaipusam is a public holiday in your state helps with better planning for work, school, and travel.

To avoid disruptions, it is recommended to refer to official public holiday announcements and state gazettes for 2026 on Public Holidays Malaysia for 2026, or refer to the School Holidays Malaysia for 2026, as dates and observance details are confirmed closer to the event.