Discover Penang’s forthcoming public holiday dates and strategise to maximise your free time. Public holidays in Penang, Malaysia, are a mix of national, state and religious holidays, each with its own unique celebrations.
To maximize your free time, start by planning ahead. If you have a long weekend, consider a short getaway to explore other parts of Malaysia or neighbouring countries. During the religious holidays, you can immerse yourself in the local culture by participating in the festivities. If you prefer a quieter time, use these holidays to catch up on rest, hobbies or personal projects.
Public Holiday Penang 2023
Find below a calendar encompassing all 2023 public holidays for Penang. These dates are open to alteration as official modifications are announced, so do remember to revisit periodically for updates.
| Date | Day | Holiday |
|---|---|---|
| 1 Jan | Sun | New Year’s Day |
| 2 Jan | Mon | New Year Holiday |
| 22 Jan | Sun | Chinese New Year |
| 23 Jan | Mon | Chinese New Year Holiday |
| 24 Jan | Tue | Chinese New Year Holiday |
| 5 Feb | Sun | Thaipusam |
| 6 Feb | Mon | Thaipusam Holiday |
| 8 Apr | Sat | Nuzul Al-Quran |
| 21 Apr | Fri | Hari Raya Aidilfitri Holiday |
| 22 Apr | Sat | Hari Raya Aidilfitri |
| 23 Apr | Sun | Hari Raya Aidilfitri Holiday |
| 24 Apr | Mon | Hari Raya Aidilfitri Holiday |
| 1 May | Mon | Labour Day |
| 4 May | Thu | Wesak Day |
| 5 Jun | Mon | Agong’s Birthday |
| 29 Jun | Thu | Hari Raya Haji |
| 7 Jul | Fri | Georgetown World Heritage City Day |
| 8 Jul | Sat | Penang Governor’s Birthday |
| 19 Jul | Wed | Awal Muharram |
| 31 Aug | Thu | Merdeka Day |
| 16 Sep | Sat | Malaysia Day |
| 28 Sep | Thu | Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday |
| 12 Nov | Sun | Deepavali |
| 13 Nov | Mon | Deepavali Holiday |
| 25 Dec | Mon | Christmas Day |
Source: penang.gov.my
What happens if Penang Public Holidays falls on the weekend?
If a public holiday in Penang falls on a weekend (Saturday or Sunday), the following weekday may be observed as a substitute holiday. However, the state government typically makes the decision to declare a substitute holiday and may not apply to every public holiday.
Employers may also have different policies, so checking with your employer or the official government website is best.
Tips on visiting Penang during Public Holidays
Visiting Penang during a public holiday can be a unique experience but requires special planning. Here are some tips to help you enjoy your public holiday in Penang.
- Plan Ahead: During public holidays, Penang can be quite crowded as it’s a popular tourist destination. It’s essential to book your flights, accommodation, and tour packages in advance to secure your spot.
- Research Public Holidays: Understand the significance of the public holiday you plan to visit during. Some holidays may affect the operating hours of attractions, shops, and restaurants.
- Visit Early: Attractions can become crowded later in the day. Arrive early to avoid long lines and large crowds.
- Traffic: Traffic can be heavy during public holidays, especially in popular areas like Georgetown. Consider using public transportation or rent a bicycle to navigate the city.
- Respect Local Customs: If you’re visiting during a religious holiday, be respectful of local customs and traditions. Dress modestly when visiting religious sites and participate in ceremonies only if invited.
- Have a Flexible Itinerary: Be prepared for unexpected closures or changes in operating hours during public holidays. Having a flexible itinerary can help you make the most of your visit.
- Stay Hydrated and Apply Sunscreen: Penang’s weather can be very hot and humid, especially during public holidays when crowds can make it feel even warmer. Drink plenty of water and apply sunscreen regularly.
- Try Local Food: Penang is famous for its street food. Don’t miss out on trying local dishes like Char Kway Teow, Assam Laksa, and Nasi Kandar.
- Carry Cash: While QR and credit cards are widely accepted, small vendors, especially at street food stalls, may only accept cash.
- Be Patient: With increased crowds and traffic, things may take a little longer than usual. Be patient, enjoy the experience, and remember that everyone is there to enjoy the holiday.
- Safety Measures: Always keep an eye on your belongings and be mindful of pickpockets in crowded areas.
- Explore Beyond Georgetown: While Georgetown is a must-visit, don’t forget to explore other parts of the island like Batu Ferringhi beach, Penang Hill, and the National Park.