These 7 States In Malaysia Do Not Observe Thaipusam As A Public Holiday
Thaipusam falls on 11 February this year.
By May Vin Ang — 04 Feb 2025, 04:42 PM
Indian Malaysians, especially those of the Hindu faith, are preparing to celebrate the upcoming Thaipusam festival
In Malaysia, the Hindu community typically celebrates Thaipusam at Batu Caves in Gombak, Selangor, a sacred site for Hindus.
However, did you know that Thaipusam, which falls on Tuesday, 11 February this year, is not a national holiday?
While most states in Malaysia will enjoy a one-day holiday, government offices and departments in seven states will continue to operate as usual.
Thaipusam is usually only celebrated in Johor, Selangor, Negeri Sembilan, Penang, Perak, and the Federal Territories of Kuala Lumpur and Putrajaya
The good news is that the Kedah state government has also decided to declare 11 February as a special holiday this year.
"We are pleased to inform that the Kedah State Executive Council has agreed to declare 11 February 2025 (Tuesday) as a special holiday in conjunction with Thaipusam for the entire state of Kedah Darul Aman.
"This special holiday is in line with Section 9 (1) of the Public Holidays Act 1951 (Act 369)," stated the official letter dated 3 February.
Meanwhile, in line with longstanding regional practices, Kelantan, Terengganu, Melaka, Pahang, Perlis, Sabah, Sarawak, and the Federal Territory of Labuan will not be observing Thaipusam as a public holiday.
