Malaysia in October

April through October sees many downpours in and around Kuala Lumpur and Malacca during its rainy season, which for many provides welcome relief to the sometimes stifling humidity, as does Malacca’s sea breeze which brings the temperatures down by 1 or 2 degrees. Located at an altitude of 1,500m above sea level, the highlands have a distinctly different climate to the rest of Malaysia. Temperatures average a very pleasant 22 °C (72 °F) in the daytime and a relatively cool 15 °C (59 °f) at night, a rare occasion where a sweater might be needed in Malaysia. The climate is ideal for the growing of flowers, fruit and tea, and the highland’s atmosphere is a far cry from bustling Kuala Lumpur. Many see this time as a chance to duck between the showers and walk the Cameron Highlands, Malaysia’s highest resort, taking in strawberry and honey bee farms, or meals at delightful Tudor-style inns.

At the same time, this is the wet season on the Western Coast, with monsoons during April through May, and again in October through November. On the island of Penang the wettest month is October, which sees 170 mm of rain, though temperatures remain hot between 24 and 32 °C (75-90 °F). Rainforest treks and sea-crossings are sometimes affected during the rainy season, but the heavy downpours generally only last a couple of hours (usually in mid to late afternoon). It is considered the best timeto spot wildlife on the Malay Peninsula in places like Taman Negara, with April through July the best for bird watching, though August to September is the best time to see the many hornbills around Temenggor Lake in Perak in the country’s north.

While on the East Coast, it is now the dry season, when the diving hotspots of Tioman Island and the white sand beaches of the exclusive Perhentian Islands (particularly Rawa, Serengeh and Tokong Burun ) come to life when waters are at their clearest and temperatures regularly top 30 °C (86 °F), offering perfect destinations for hitting the pristine beaches. The Perhentians are home to the ultra-rare green and hawksbill turtles and a rich array of marine life and tropical fish, a scuba diver’s dream.

 

Suggested Itineraries

Diving Borneo's Aquatic Treasures: Sipadan & Mabul

Explore Borneo’s incredible underwater world on this enchanting 7-day diving adventure in some of the world’s best dive sites, Sipidan and Mabul. You’ll make friends with lively underwater creatures like hawksbill, greenback turtles, manta rays, and whale sharks, while staying at a luxury floating dive resort. 

Duration
7 days / 6 nights
Price Per Person
From $6,200
See Itinerary

Singapore Getaways: Wildlife in Danum Valley

In Singapore for business, the Grand Prix, a wedding, reunion, or another event? While in the Lion City, take advantage of this major airline hub and turn your trip into a vacation with these quick and easy add-on getaways.

Leave the bustling city of Singapore behind for the wilds of Malaysian Borneo, a 2.5 hour flight away. This quick and easy 4-day getaway to Danum Valley will thrill wildlife seekers with its plethora of plants and lowland fauna.

Duration
4 days / 3 nights
Price Per Person
From $6,300
See Itinerary

Remote Asia in 5 Countries by Private Jet

Gear up for the adventure of a lifetime on this 15-day exclusive itinerary through Asia’s remote destinations that include 5 countries in Southeast Asia and Oceania. Discover tribal cultures, endemic wildlife, and primeval rainforests juxtaposed with experiences in modern cities of enormous wealth. 

Duration
15 days / 14 nights
Per Person Per Day
Enquire for price
See Itinerary

Recommended Festivals For Malaysia in October

Deepavali (Festival of Lights)

Deepavali (Festival of Lights)

October-November

Hindus all over Malaysia celebrate this joyful and festive occasion once a year. On the day of Deepavali, devotees cleanse themselves and visit the temple. They decorate their houses and the streets with colorful lights to commemorate the return of the gods Rama and Sita from exile. There are firework displays and meals are shared.

Location Countrywide, Malaysia

Tamu Besar Kota Belud

Tamu Besar Kota Belud

October

For one day each year, the Tamu market in Kota Belud expands and welcomes visitors from all around for the annual grand market carnival festivities of the Tamu Besar. As well as all the usual local food and crafts, there is a parade of Bajau horsemen, an exciting water buffalo race and a popular beauty pageant.

Location Kota Belud, Malaysia

Matunggong Gong Festival

Matunggong Gong Festival

October

The traditional folk music of Sabah is characterized by the gong which has been made for centuries by the craftsmen in the village of Sumangkap. The gong is celebrated by the villagers and visitors in this two-day festival featuring classical music and dance from Sabah. There is also the opportunity to see how the gongs are made.

Location Sabah, Malaysia

Borneo Arts Festival

Borneo Arts Festival

September

Throughout the second part of September, a rich and diverse celebration of artistic endeavour is celebrated across Borneo, from Sabah to Sarawak and Labuan. Visitors from all over the world enjoy the musical performances and competitions, exhibitions of fashion, arts and photography, as well as traditional food and storytelling.

Location Borneo, Malaysia

Borneo International Kite Festival

Borneo International Kite Festival

September-October

Professional and amateur kitemakers and their families from all over the world gather for an exciting and colorful day in Bintulu to see and fly spectacular kites. There are plenty of activities to take part in, including workshops with kitemakers, and kite-coloring competitions. There is also a range of great food and drink available.

Location Bintulu, Malaysia

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