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With the terrain stretching from East to West, located in the North of the equator and composed of two separate peninsulas, Malaysia has an equatorial, subsea tropical climate. Therefore, the country has many beautiful natural landscapes with the richness of natural environments.
That also gives Malaysia weather differentiation through the months of the year depending on the territories. Are you planning to travel to Malaysia for the upcoming vacation? Let's explore the great travel time with Asia King Travel to have a memorable experience and the safest and most convenient trip!
Generally dry, making this a great month for outdoor and wildlife-focused adventures - Photo: Kim kim
Due to geographical factors such as being located entirely in the southernmost part of the Northern Hemisphere, not far from the equator. Furthermore, it is divided into two separate parts by the South China Sea and a heavily indented coastline, Malaysia's climate is directly influenced by the South China Sea current. This explains why Malaysia has a humid tropical climate, hot year-round, along with the characteristics of a tropical maritime climate.
Temperatures in Malaysia typically range from 29 to 35 degrees Celsius during the day, and at night remain high at around 26 to 29 degrees Celsius. The Malaysian weather is warm for the greater part of the year, quite ideal for recreation and leisure either at the seashore or in a tropical forest.
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This is Boh’s Tea Plantation, less than 2 hours a drive from Ipoh, or 3 hours from Kuala Lumpur, Cameron Highlands - Photo: thepetitewanderess
The monsoon season from November to February, while not cold, is similar to other Southeast Asian countries in that there is less sunlight during these months compared to others in the year. Generally, rainfall in Malaysia is heavy and it rains heavily from October to March. Very often, rain catches people by surprise.
Temperatures are usually cooler and more pleasant in the hilly and mountainous regions. As an example, in the Genting Highlands and the Cameron Highlands, which at night tend to be about 17 degrees Celsius in the evening and around the mid-20s in the morning.
Read more: Malaysia Tours 7 days
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Treat yourself to the serenity and beauty of Langkawi’s hidden gems - Photo: tripjive
Also known as Malaya or West Malaysia, the western part of Malaysia comprises the southern part of the Malay Peninsula and is separated from East Malaysia (on the island of Borneo). With these geographic characteristics, they have high temperatures and humidities, heavy rainfall, and a climatic year patterned around the northeast and southwest monsoons.
If you are an outdoor activities lover, the dry season from December to February is perfect for your discovery trip. Some activities is suggested for you like hiking at Bukit Tabur, Jungle trekking, secluded beaches, and wildlife spotting in Penang National Park, etc.
The South China Sea, where the islands are situated, has a significant influence on the weather. The climate is stabilized by the warm tropical waters, which keep temperature fluctuations moderate.
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The Perhentian Islands consist of two islands; Perhentian Besar and Perhentian Kecil - Photo: travelrebels
During the dry season, the mountains on the mainland keep the islands drier and brighter by blocking the moisture winds. This special combination of climate and location makes March through September the perfect time of year for tourists to take advantage of bright skies and calm waters.
The seas are calm and clear throughout these arid months, and there are lots of sunny days and mild rains now and again. This is the best time for diving, snorkeling, and other water sports. Underwater clarity is excellent, which really allows you to see vibrant coral reefs and rich marine life. However, sea breezes keep humidity fairly tolerable throughout in average temperatures ranging between 25°C and 32°C
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Sabah is popular for the 4095m tall Mount Kinabalu, which is the country’s highest peak - Photo: theetlrblog
Sarawak and Sabah are the two ideal states for any nature lover. Due to the usual dry weather through these months, the months of March to October are best for visiting this region. It is perfect to explore the vast rainforests and such magnificent creatures as pygmy elephants, proboscis monkeys, and orangutans. In comparison with the rest of the year, the weather pattern is more consistent and less rainy, very essential for mountain climbing, river cruising, and trekking through routes in a jungle.
All of Borneo is located in the tropical rainforest climate zone, which has year-round warm temperatures between 24°C and 32°C (75°F and 89°F) and significant humidity. However, the Southwest Monsoon's intense rains from November to February primarily affect lowlands and beaches, making outdoor activities more uncomfortable
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Mulu National Park, UNESCO World Heritage Site - Photo: river junkie
Although less frequent, the rainstorms during the dry months from March through October render the scenery equally green and vibrant, and the rivers and waterfalls flow on a regular basis.
With a long coastline along the South China Sea, hills, and primary jungles, Sabah and Sarawak offer the best of an adventurer's heaven. Danum Valley rainforest and magnificent Mount Kinabalu rank among the top sights of Sabah. It is better to go during dry months when trails are less muddy, hence, allowing the wildlife to be more easily seen.
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Gunung Kinabalu, as it is known in Malay, is the highest mountain on the world's third-largest island - Photo: lonelyplanet
Speaking of which, this same season offers better weather to visit the Bako National Park, Sarawak's historic Mulu Caves, and river trips. The optimum combination of bright, dry days and light rainy spells occurs throughout this month, making it ideal for eco-adventure and wildlife viewing
The best time to discover Malaysian culture is from November to January which has many big events/ festivals in the whole country. However, at this time, Malaysia is in the rainy season, and you should prepare and consider whether it will be suitable for your trip purposes.
Also, during this period, the country experiences a festive atmosphere, and many Malaysians take vacations, which contributes to increased travel and tourism activities
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Devotees welcome the maiden voyage of the golden chariot - Photo by Marco Ferrarese
Some key Malaysia festivals in this time are:
The most vivid and lively time of year to visit or see Malaysia is during November and January, which are a riot of religious and colorful festivities.
It's best to avoid the East Coast during the monsoon season - usually in November, December, January, and February - as torrential rains may interfere with your travel schedule. You may also want to consider other regional holidays like the Chinese New Year and Hari Raya for a more dynamic cultural encounter.
Lastly, peak travel months in Malaysia are between December and February on the west coast, while on the east coast, they fall between March and September. Feel free to contact Asia King Travel to plan an incredible trip to Malaysia!
Read more: East Coast Malaysia Tours
