Malaysia Labour Day Holiday
Labour Day is an official public holiday in Malaysia, affecting all states at a national level. This public holiday falls on 1 May annually, and all schools and some offices will be closed.
| Date | Day | Public Holiday |
|---|---|---|
| 1 May | Friday | Labour Day 2020 |
| 1 May | Saturday | Labour Day 2021 |
| 1 May | Sunday* | Labour Day 2022 |
| 2 May | Monday | Labour Day 2022 |
| 1 May | Monday | Labour Day 2023 |
| 1 May | Wednesday | Labour Day 2024 |
| 1 May | Thursday | Labour Day 2025 |
Note: Any holidays that fall on a Sunday will be replaced the following Monday.
What is Labour Day All About in Malaysia?
Labour Day is a celebration for the social and economic achievements for the workforce. These achievements include establishing the 8-hour workday, which successfully implements in several countries in the 1800s.
Before it became an official celebration for the workforce, 1 May was also a day of celebration to welcome the first day of Spring. It was traditionally celebrated in North America, Great Britain and Europe. It was commonly referred to as May Day before it becomes Labour Day today as we know it.
Historically, 1 May was officially established after international leaders met in Paris in 1891. It was then that Labour Day became a day devoted to the working-class labourers, and this was implemented in several countries.
How Do They Celebrate It?
The public holiday is a celebration in Malaysia with no significant occasion to mark the history of this day. Most locals usually take advantage of the Labour Day public holiday by enjoying the day off. They either travel, spend time with their families, catch up with friends and more.
Generally, there is nothing major that takes place during the Labour Day celebrations in Malaysia. Most locals usually treat it as any other off day. However, every now and then there could be the occasional peaceful rally that is held. If they organise rallies, they commonly take place in Kuala Lumpur, the capital city of Malaysia. The purpose of these peaceful rallies by the workers is to advocate for better working conditions.
What to Do During Labour Day in Malaysia
Given that most offices and schools are also on holidays for the Labour Day holiday, families grab the chance to spend time with their loved ones. Parents and kids indulge in family-oriented activities they otherwise might not have time for. Friends catch up with other friends. The shopping malls in Malaysia are bustling with people who come out in full swing, enjoying the relaxing day away from the office.
Some families even use this time to take a day trip with their families somewhere they’ve been wanting to go. There are several tourist and local attractions throughout Malaysia that continue to operate despite the holiday. No matter what your interest maybe, you’ll be sure to find something to do.
