Where to Spend Chinese New Year 2026 in Malaysia

5 min read

If you’re planning a trip around our beautiful country, you’re in for a treat. Malaysia is bursting with incredible sights, a rich tapestry of culture, and mouth-watering cuisine that will make your heart sing. From the bustling streets of Kuala Lumpur to the serene peaks of the Cameron Highlands, there is something for everyone.

1. Petronas Twin Towers

Visiting the Petronas Twin Towers during CNY is an unforgettable experience, as this iconic landmark transforms into a vibrant hub of festivities. The towers and the surrounding KLCC area are beautifully adorned with traditional decorations, including red lanterns and festive lights, creating a stunning backdrop for celebrations.

What to Expect:

Cultural Spectacles: Enjoy high-energy lion dance performances and traditional music in the central atrium of Suria KLCC.
Festive Shopping: The mall offers exclusive CNY collections and "Yee Sang" (prosperity toss) sets at various restaurants.
Evening Magic: The Lake Symphony water fountain show is particularly atmospheric when framed by the red-and-gold holiday lights.

Top Tip: For the best view of the festive fireworks, head to the SkyBar at Traders Hotel or find a spot in KLCC Park early in the evening.

Hotel to Stay Near Petronas Twin Tower

Top Attraction Near Petronas Twin Tower

Discover flight with Traveloka

Sun, 22 Mar 2026

AirAsia Berhad (Malaysia)

Kota Kinabalu (BKI) to Kuala Lumpur (KUL)

Start from RM 129.82

Sun, 15 Mar 2026

Batik Air Malaysia

Kuching (KCH) to Kuala Lumpur (KUL)

Start from RM 95.52

Wed, 11 Mar 2026

Malaysia Airlines

Kota Bharu (KBR) to Kuala Lumpur (KUL)

Start from RM 48.62

2. Batu Caves

Just a short drive from the city centre, Batu Caves is a must-visit. Known for its breathtaking limestone caverns and the towering golden statue of Lord Murugan, it becomes a hive of activity during the festive season.

Why Visit During CNY:

The 272 Steps: While famous for the Hindu temple, the caves are a multi-cultural magnet. The climb up the rainbow-coloured steps provides a fantastic workout with a rewarding view of the KL skyline.
Nature Meets Culture: Visit the Dark Cave for an educational guided tour of the cave’s unique ecosystem, or simply enjoy the festive buzz at the base of the hill where vendors sell local snacks and souvenirs.

Recommendation: Be mindful of the monkeys! They are cheeky and will try to grab food or loose belongings. Keep your snacks tucked away until you are back on the ground.

Hotel to Stay Near Batu Caves

Top Attraction Around Batu Caves

3. George Town, Penang

George Town is a treasure chest of history and a UNESCO World Heritage site. During CNY, it is arguably the most festive place in the country due to its large Chinese community.

The Highlights:

Kek Lok Si Temple: Located just outside George Town, this temple is illuminated by thousands of lanterns during CNY—it is a sight that will take your breath away.
Culinary Capital: You cannot visit Penang without embarking on a food hunt. Try the Char Kway Teow, Penang Laksa, and Hokkien Mee.
Street Art: Spend an afternoon wandering through Armenian Street to find the famous murals and interactive wrought-iron caricatures.

Don't Miss: The Clan Jetties during the "Hokkien New Year" (the 9th day of CNY), where the celebrations are even more explosive and vibrant than the first day.

Hotel to Stay in George Town, Penang

Top Attraction in George Town, Penang

Discover flight with Traveloka

Mon, 30 Mar 2026

Malaysia Airlines

Kuala Lumpur (KUL) to Penang (PEN)

Start from RM 53.81

Fri, 6 Mar 2026

AirAsia Indonesia

Medan (KNO) to Penang (PEN)

Start from RM 88.08

Tue, 10 Mar 2026

Firefly

Kuala Lumpur / Subang (SZB) to Penang (PEN)

Start from RM 117.37

4. Langkawi

Langkawi is paradise on earth. If you want to escape the urban festive rush, this archipelago of 99 islands is the perfect getaway.

Adventure & Relaxation:

SkyCab and SkyBridge: Take the cable car up Gunung Mat Cincang for panoramic views of the Andaman Sea.
Island Hopping: Rent a boat to visit Dayang Bunting (Lake of the Pregnant Maiden) or go snorkelling at Pulau Payar Marine Park.
Duty-Free Shopping: Langkawi is a duty-free zone, making it the ideal place to stock up on chocolates and kitchenware for your CNY gifting.

Dining Suggestion: Head to Pantai Cenang for a fresh seafood dinner on the beach as the sun sets. It’s the perfect way to welcome the New Year.

Hotel to Stay in Langkawi

Top Attractions in Langkawi

Discover flight with Traveloka

Sun, 22 Mar 2026

AirAsia Berhad (Malaysia)

Kuala Lumpur (KUL) to Langkawi (LGK)

Start from RM 76.63

Mon, 30 Mar 2026

Malaysia Airlines

Penang (PEN) to Langkawi (LGK)

Start from RM 63.49

Mon, 2 Mar 2026

Firefly

Kuala Lumpur / Subang (SZB) to Langkawi (LGK)

Start from RM 126.85

5. Cameron Highlands

The Cameron Highlands offers a literal breath of fresh air. If you’re looking to escape the tropical heat, this hill station’s cool climate and lush tea plantations are ideal.

The Experience:

Tea & Scones: Visit the BOH Tea Centre or Bharat Tea Plantation for a cup of local brew overlooking rolling green hills.
Strawberry Picking: Many farms allow you to pick your own fruit. It's a great activity for families.
Mossy Forest: For nature lovers, a guided hike through the ancient, misty Mossy Forest feels like stepping into a fantasy novel.

Travel Advice: Traffic can be heavy during the CNY holidays. Aim to reach the highlands before 9:00 AM or stay overnight to beat the day-trip congestion.

Hotels in Cameron Highland

Top Attractions in Cameron Highland

6. Jonker Street, Malacca

Malacca is where history and festivities collide. As part of Visit Malaysia Year 2026, Jonker Street is set to be a global stage for "Malaysian-style" CNY celebrations.

2026 Special Events:

Global Showcase: For 2026, Jonker Street is hosting international media collaborations, featuring massive dragon and lion dance displays and elegant Nyonya cultural performances.
Lanterns & Heritage: The historic shophouses are draped in red, and the famous Jonker Walk Night Market offers unique festive treats like pineapple tarts and Nyonya kuih.
Sky-High Dining: Visit Mimi at 1-Altitude, the highest Chinese restaurant in Malacca, for a reunion dinner with a panoramic view of the Straits of Malacca.

Hotels in Malacca


Top Attractions in Malacca

Discover flight with Traveloka

Sun, 15 Mar 2026

Scoot

Singapore (SIN) to Melaka (MKZ)

Start from RM 223.14

Fri, 6 Mar 2026

Scoot

Jakarta (CGK) to Melaka (MKZ)

Start from RM 165.50

Sat, 7 Mar 2026

Citilink

Jakarta (CGK) to Melaka (MKZ)

Start from RM 390.95

7. Johor Bahru

If you want to experience one of Malaysia’s most unique Lunar traditions, head south to Johor Bahru for the spectacular finale of the New Year period.

The Main Event:

The Chingay Parade: Scheduled for the end of the 15-day celebration (typically around 17 February 2026), this is a massive street parade organised by the Johor Bahru Old Chinese Temple. It features decorated floats, acrobatics, and deities carried through the streets.
Festive Bazaars: Check out the Johor Jaya Bazaar on Jalan Dedap, which transforms into a carnival selling everything from bak kwa to lucky red envelopes.

Hotels in Johor Bahru


Top Attractions in Johor Bahru


Discover flight with Traveloka

Mon, 16 Mar 2026

Malaysia Airlines

Kuala Lumpur (KUL) to Johor Bahru (JHB)

Start from RM 47.79

Wed, 11 Mar 2026

Firefly

Kuala Lumpur / Subang (SZB) to Johor Bahru (JHB)

Start from RM 98.92

Mon, 30 Mar 2026

Malaysia Airlines

Penang (PEN) to Johor Bahru (JHB)

Start from RM 101.57

8. Kota Kinabalu, Sabah

For a celebration with a coastal breeze, Kota Kinabalu in East Malaysia offers a vibrant blend of traditions.

2026 Highlights:

Cultural Village Exhibition: Visit the Sabah International Convention Centre (SICC) on 25 January 2026 for the annual Dragon, Unicorn, and Lion Dance Festival. It’s a full day of free cultural performances and spring couplet writing.
Island Vibes: After the festivities, take a 15-minute boat ride to the islands of the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park for some world-class snorkelling.

Hotels in Kota Kinabalu

Discover flight with Traveloka

Fri, 6 Mar 2026

Batik Air Malaysia

Kuala Lumpur (KUL) to Kota Kinabalu (BKI)

Start from RM 132.52

Sat, 14 Mar 2026

AirAsia Berhad (Malaysia)

Tawau (TWU) to Kota Kinabalu (BKI)

Start from RM 74.06

Sun, 8 Mar 2026

AirAsia Berhad (Malaysia)

Kuching (KCH) to Kota Kinabalu (BKI)

Start from RM 92.19

Want to explore Malaysia freely? Renting a car is the way to go! It gives you the freedom to check out all the cool spots at your own pace. Whether you’re visiting family or hitting up some hidden gems, having your own wheels makes everything easier. Just book it ahead of time so you’re all set for your adventure!

If you’re planning to celebrate Chinese New Year in Malaysia, don’t forget to grab your flight tickets soon. There are loads of great deals out there, and booking early means you’ll have more options to choose from. Trust me, you’ll want to get in on the festivities without any last-minute stress!

Tags:

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cny

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