Malaysia has a tropical climate, which means it’s hot and humid all year. Temperatures generally hover around 28-32°C (82-89°F) during the day, and can drop to 22-25°C (72-77°F) at night. The country experiences two main monsoon seasons, so the weather does have some variations depending on where you are.
If you’re wondering when to visit, don’t worry. Malaysia is a year-round destination, but some months might be better than others depending on where you want to go and what you want to do.
Weather in Malaysia: A Quick Overview
Malaysia gets plenty of rain every year. The western side (like Kuala Lumpur and Penang) is wetter from April to October. On the east coast (Redang, Perhentian Islands), rain comes from November to March.
Because rain can show up suddenly, it helps to pack light clothes that can dry quickly and a good rain jacket no matter when you’re visiting. It will almost always be warm, so forget heavy clothing. You’ll sweat through it anyway.
Malaysia’s Weather in January
January is part of the monsoon season on the east coast of Peninsular Malaysia. You’ll see lots of rain and many resorts in places like the Perhentian Islands and Redang are closed for the season. However, if you’re in Kuala Lumpur, Penang, or Langkawi, the weather is much drier.
Average temperatures range between 27-30°C (81-86°F). This is a good time to visit cities and the western side of Malaysia.
Malaysia’s Weather in February
February continues to see heavy rain on the east coast. This still isn’t the best time for beach holidays in that region. But, on the west coast, you’ll find dry sunny days. Great conditions if you’re visiting Langkawi.
The rainforest in Borneo (Sabah and Sarawak) sees scattered showers, but diving and wildlife spotting can still be great. Temperatures stay warm at 27-31°C (81-88°F).
Malaysia’s Weather in March
March marks the end of the rainy season on the east coast, although showers may still occur. Some resorts begin to reopen towards the end of the month.
Kuala Lumpur and the west coast see warm and hot days. In cities, take plenty of water and a hat to deal with the heat. Expect temperatures to be 29-32°C (84-90°F).
Malaysia’s Weather in April
April starts bringing some rainfall to the west coast with afternoon showers. However, it’s still a popular month to visit Kuala Lumpur or Cameron Highlands before the heavier rains of May.
Temperatures stay consistent, ranging between 27-32°C (81-90°F). The Perhentian Islands begin to see clearer, drier days again, making it a good time for diving or snorkeling.
Malaysia’s Weather in May
As May arrives, rain picks up in the west. The heat combined with afternoon showers makes it quite humid. This isn’t always great for walking outdoors, but it’s still a good month to visit hill stations like Cameron Highlands or Genting.
On the other hand, the east coast of Malaysia is perfect in May. Beautiful weather and diving conditions on Redang, Tioman, and the Perhentian Islands are fantastic.
Malaysia’s Weather in June
June is one of the best months to visit Malaysia if you want to avoid the rain. It’s typically dry on the west coast, with just a few pop-up showers. In Kuala Lumpur, this is a good time to explore the city with fewer interruptions from the weather.
Temperatures continue to be hot, around 28-32°C (82-90°F), especially in cities. In rural or jungle areas, pack light clothes and bring a lot of water to stay cool.
Malaysia’s Weather in July
July stays very similar to June. The west coast remains relatively dry, and the east coast continues to enjoy dry, sunny days perfect for beach lovers. This makes it one of the best overall months to visit Malaysia for sun-seekers and divers.
Keep in mind that the high season means more tourists, so plan for crowds in spots like Langkawi or the Perhentian Islands. Average temperatures aren’t lower, so expect another hot month with 28-32°C (82-90°F).
Malaysia’s Weather in August
August is peak tourist season for Malaysia. The mild west coast rains and abundant sunshine on the east make it ideal for exploring both coasts. Langkawi may see a little rain, but it won’t ruin your travel plans.
The east coast is still in its best phase for diving and relaxation. Temperatures remain constant, still around 28-32°C (82-90°F), so stay prepared for the heat.
Malaysia’s Weather in September
September is the beginning of the rainy season again on the west coast. Afternoon showers become more frequent, particularly in Kuala Lumpur and Penang.
Luckily, the east coast stays mostly dry, so island-hopping is still a good bet. Expect high humidity along with the warm temperatures of 28-32°C (82-90°F).
Malaysia’s Weather in October
October brings in plenty of rain to the west coast, most notably in Penang and Kuala Lumpur. Beach holidays in the west aren’t ideal during this time, but the showers don’t typically ruin the whole day.
The east coast remains relatively dry through mid-October, but towards the end of the month, rain starts picking up as the monsoon season approaches. Temperatures are still warm at 27-31°C (81-88°F).
Malaysia’s Weather in November
November is when the east coast monsoon season begins in full swing. Most resorts on the Perhentian Islands, Redang, and Tioman close. It’s not the best month for diving or beach holidays on the east coast.
On the west coast, Kuala Lumpur, Penang, and Langkawi start drying up from the October rains. Keep an umbrella handy if you’re staying in the cities. Temperatures stay around 27-31°C (81-88°F).
Malaysia’s Weather in December
December is split. The east coast is still deep into its monsoon season, but the western regions experience sunny days. This makes places like Langkawi or Penang the top spots to visit for the holidays.
Temperatures are still warm, between 26-30°C (79-86°F). If you’re heading to Kuala Lumpur, expect a season that’s busy with tourists but better weather overall.
When is the Best Time to Visit Malaysia?
If I had to pick the best time to go, it’s February to early April on the west coast and May to July for the east coast. Both sides will give you good weather with minimal rain. If diving or snorkeling is your thing, stick with the May-July timeframe for the east coast or March-April on the west.
To save some money, you could visit Kuala Lumpur or Penang in the shoulder season (April or October), but expect some rain.
Practical Tips for Traveling in Malaysia’s Weather
- Pack light clothes like t-shirts, shorts, and plenty of breathable fabrics. You’ll feel the heat, especially in the cities.
- Bring a small umbrella or rain jacket. Showers happen quickly, especially in the afternoons.
- For rural areas or islands, sandals and hiking shoes help, but don’t bother with heavy shoes. It’s just too hot for them most of the time.
- In Malaysia, air conditioning can make indoor spaces cold after spending time outside, so keep a light jacket handy for malls or restaurants.
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