Kuala Lumpur Events - January 2027
January starts quiet after the countdown and then builds towards Chinese New Year. Thaipusam on 22 January is a Kuala Lumpur public holiday, and from the last week the city begins dressing for Lunar New Year in February.
Festivals and listings
Thaipusam
Friday 22 January 2027
A Kuala Lumpur public holiday (and in several other states). The main pilgrimage is at Batu Caves, north of the city, where devotees carry kavadis up the 272 steps; the spectacle is free to watch. Bukit Bintang empties as the city heads north.
Where: Batu Caves (main site); Kuala Lumpur public holiday
Tickets: Free
Why go: One of the most extraordinary religious spectacles in Asia, and an easy half-day trip from the district by KTM Komuter.
Sources: Malaysia public holidays 2027, Malaysia federal and state holiday list
Chinese New Year run-up
From late January 2027 (Chinese New Year falls on 6 February 2027)
The malls, Petaling Street and the Bukit Bintang streets begin their Lunar New Year dressing in the last week of January, with lion dances, red lanterns and late-night shopping. Chinese New Year itself is on 6 February 2027.
Why go: The run-up is the most atmospheric time to shop and eat in the district; see our Chinese New Year guide.
Public holidays
New Year's Day
Friday 1 January 2027
A national public holiday (except in Johor, Kedah, Kelantan, Perlis and Terengganu); most offices and banks are closed while malls and restaurants stay open.
Sources: Malaysia public holidays 2027, Malaysia public holidays reference
Federal Territory Day
Monday 1 February 2027
A Kuala Lumpur public holiday marking the formation of the Federal Territory. Noted here because it falls just after this page's window and shapes late-January planning.
Sources: Malaysia public holidays 2027, Malaysia public holidays reference