Weather in Malaysia

Malaysia's best time to visit varies by region due to the country's monsoon patterns, but November through February is generally excellent for the west coast of the peninsula, including Kuala Lumpur, Penang, and Langkawi, when the northeast monsoon keeps these areas largely dry and temperatures are at their most pleasant. The east coast of the peninsula — including the Perhentian Islands and Cherating — is best from March through October, before the northeast monsoon brings heavy rains and closes most resorts from November to February.

Sabah and Sarawak on Borneo are best visited from March through October, when rainfall is lower and jungle trekking conditions are more favourable. Mount Kinabalu is climbable year-round but the summit views are clearest in the dry season. The Cameron Highlands and highland areas are pleasantly cool at any time of year. Malaysia's major festivals, including Chinese New Year (January–February), Hari Raya (dates vary), and Thaipusam (January–February), are well worth timing your visit around for extraordinary cultural spectacles, though accommodation in popular areas books out quickly.