CHINESE New Year (CNY) is a time of excitement, family gatherings and cultural richness, and Malaysia, with its diverse traditions, offers some of the best places to celebrate the festive season.
Whether you are on the bustling streets of Kuala Lumpur or the tranquil hills of Cameron Highlands, Malaysia offers unique experiences to make your holidays an unforgettable affair.
Here is our guide to the top destinations for a memorable Chinese New Year celebration.
1. KUALA LUMPUR: THE PULSE OF FESTIVE EXCITEMENT
- Petaling Street – A Vibrant Chinatown Experience
Petaling Street, also known as Chinatown, is the epicentre of Kuala Lumpur's CNY festivities. The area comes alive with dazzling decorations, traditional lion dances and mouth watering street food.
As you wander through the lively night market, enjoy shopping for festive treats, souvenirs and traditional Chinese decorations, all while soaking in the energetic atmosphere.
- Thean Hou Temple – A Cultural and Spiritual Haven
The Thean Hou Temple is a must-visit during CNY, offering a spectacular view with thousands of red lanterns illuminating its six-tiered structure.
Located on a hilltop, the temple hosts cultural performances, traditional ceremonies and family-friendly activities like fortune-telling and calligraphy, providing visitors a chance to immerse themselves in both spiritual and cultural celebrations.
2. PENANG: A BLEND OF TRADITION AND MODERN FESTIVITIES
- Kek Lok Si Temple – A Radiant Symbol of Prosperity
The Kek Lok Si Temple, Malaysia’s largest Buddhist temple, is known for its breathtaking CNY display. Over 10,000 lights adorn the temple grounds, creating a mesmerising scene, especially after sunset.
Visitors can explore the temple’s halls and shrines while enjoying cultural performances and festive food stalls that fill the air with festive cheer.
- George Town – A Heritage-Filled Celebration
George Town, a Unesco World Heritage site, is the perfect blend of tradition and modernity during CNY. Areas like Armenian Street transform into a lively celebration featuring lantern displays, lion dances and cultural exhibits.
Local craft workshops and food stalls further enrich the experience, making it an ideal destination for those seeking an authentic taste of Penang’s Chinese heritage.
3. IPOH: A TRANQUIL AND COLOURFUL RETREAT
- Old Town and New Year Markets – A Peaceful Celebration
Ipoh’s Old Town provides a quieter, more nostalgic setting for celebrations. The area is beautifully decorated with lanterns and its New Year markets offer traditional Chinese goods, clothing and decorations.
For those who prefer a less crowded atmosphere, Ipoh is the ideal place to enjoy authentic Chinese cuisine and soak in the festive ambiance.
- Perak Tong Cave Temple – Serenity Amidst the Festivities
Nestled in a limestone hill, the Perak Tong Cave Temple offers a unique twist on the typical CNY experience. Adorned with lanterns and colourful murals, the temple provides a peaceful retreat.
Visitors can climb to the top for a panoramic view of Ipoh while reflecting on the new year in a tranquil setting.
4. JOHOR BAHRU: A FAMILY-FRIENDLY CELEBRATION
- Johor Bahru Old Chinese Temple – A Cultural Hub
The Old Chinese Temple in Johor Bahru is one of the city’s oldest and most culturally significant landmarks. During CNY, the temple hosts a parade featuring dragon dances, traditional music and colourful floats.
It is a great place for families to celebrate together, with activities that both children and adults will enjoy.
- Legoland Malaysia – Fun for the Whole Family
For a more lighthearted celebration, Legoland Malaysia offers a family-friendly environment where you can truly enjoy the festive season.
The theme park is decked out with red lanterns and special activities like treasure hunts, crafting sessions and lion dance performances keep the whole family entertained.
5. MELAKA: A HISTORIC AND FESTIVE DESTINATION
- Jonker Street Night Market – A Feast for the Senses
Jonker Street, renowned for its lively night market, becomes even more vibrant during CNY. The street is lined with red lanterns, and you can find a variety of traditional Chinese snacks, decorations and crafts.
The festive energy here is contagious, with the sound of music filling the air. Be sure to try local specialties like pineapple tarts and Nyonya cakes, which are traditional treats during this season.
- Cheng Hoon Teng Temple – A Spiritual Experience
Cheng Hoon Teng Temple, the oldest active temple in Malaysia, is beautifully adorned for the season. The serene atmosphere makes it a perfect place to participate in traditional prayers and offerings, where locals come to seek good fortune for the upcoming year.
6. CAMERON HIGHLANDS: A COOL AND REFRESHING ESCAPE
- Tea Plantations and Strawberry Farms – A Serene Celebration
For those seeking a change of pace, Cameron Highlands offers a peaceful retreat. Explore lush tea plantations and strawberry farms, where you can enjoy the cool mountain air and scenic views.
Many visitors choose Cameron Highlands for a more relaxed holiday, enjoying the natural beauty while celebrating CNY with family meals in a calm environment.
- Local Markets and Festive Vibes
Cameron Highlands also features local markets stocked with fresh produce, festive flowers and Chinese decorations. The abundance of chrysanthemums and orchids, which symbolise prosperity and good luck, fills the air with a sense of celebration.
This tranquil escape offers a refreshing way to celebrate the season away from the busy crowds.
7. LANGKAWI: AN ISLAND GETAWAY WITH A FESTIVE TOUCH
- Pantai Cenang – A Beachside Chinese New Year
If you are looking to celebrate with a beach holiday, Langkawi offers the perfect mix of relaxation and fun. Pantai Cenang is a great place to unwind and enjoy a seafood feast by the water.
Many resorts on the island decorate their spaces with CNY elements and you might even catch a lion dance performance, adding a festive touch to the island paradise.
- Cable Car and Sky Bridge – A Scenic Start to the Year
For an adventurous way to ring in the new year, head to Langkawi’s Sky Bridge and cable car. Offering stunning views of the island, it is an exciting way to kick off the new year.
Though not a traditional CNY activity, the breathtaking scenery provides a fresh and adventurous perspective to start the year.
Malaysia’s CNY celebrations are as diverse as its culture. There is a destination for every type of traveler.
Whether you are exploring bustling cities, peaceful temples or tropical islands, Malaysia offers a memorable way to celebrate Chinese New Year with loved ones.