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Deepavali in Sabah and Sarawak: Celebrating Beyond the Peninsula
When Malaysians picture Deepavali, they often think of the busy bazaars of Brickfields or the heritage streets of Penang. But the Festival of Lights is also celebrated across Sabah and Sarawak, where smaller Indian communities and their friends mark the occasion in their own warm way. Celebrations may be quieter, but the spirit of welcome is just as strong.
East Malaysia also has different holiday arrangements from the peninsula, which shapes how families celebrate. This guide explains the holiday differences, the history of Indian communities in East Malaysia, how Deepavali is celebrated in Sarawak and Sabah, the region's open house culture and practical tips for newcomers and visitors.
Holiday Differences
Holiday arrangements are one of the biggest differences between East Malaysia and the peninsula.
- Sabah: Deepavali is a public holiday, falling on Sunday 8 November 2026, with Monday 9 November listed as a replacement holiday
- Sarawak: Deepavali is not a state public holiday
- Many Sarawakian Hindus take annual leave or celebrate in the evening after work
- Open houses in Sarawak are often held in the evening or on the weekend
If you have colleagues in Sarawak who celebrate, a little flexibility with meetings and deadlines around the festival is a kind gesture. Our guide to managing leave during Deepavali has more ideas for workplaces.
Indian Communities in East Malaysia
Malaysian Indian communities in Sabah and Sarawak are smaller than in Peninsular Malaysia, but they have a long history there. Families include descendants of early traders, civil servants, professionals and workers, as well as more recent arrivals from the peninsula working in education, healthcare, business and other sectors.
Because communities are smaller, festivals often become shared events where friends from many backgrounds join in the welcome, food and greetings.
Many families keep close ties with relatives in the peninsula, and some travel there for the festival while others welcome visiting relatives to East Malaysia. Video calls help families spread across the country share the celebration.
Celebrating in Sarawak
In Kuching, the historic India Street, or Jalan India, is a reminder of the Indian traders who were part of the city's commercial history. Today it is known as a pedestrian shopping street.
Around Deepavali, Hindu families in Sarawak prepare their homes, visit temples for prayers and host open houses for friends and colleagues. Sarawak's culture of open houses, strong during Gawai, Hari Raya, Christmas and Chinese New Year, naturally extends to Deepavali, and friends of all backgrounds are often welcomed.
Celebrating in Sabah
In Kota Kinabalu and other towns, Deepavali is marked by family gatherings, temple prayers for those who worship and open houses. Community associations may organise festive events, and shopping malls sometimes feature Deepavali decorations alongside cultural performances.
Festive goods may be harder to find than in the peninsula, so many families order online or bring items back from trips. Planning ahead helps make sure lamps, decorations and festive clothes arrive in time.
Shopping online safely
If you order festive goods online, buy from reputable sellers and allow extra time for delivery to East Malaysia. Our guide to online shopping scam safety explains how to avoid common traps.
The East Malaysian Spirit
East Malaysia is known for its strong sense of unity among diverse communities, including Kadazandusun, Iban, Bidayuh, Malay, Chinese, Indian and many others. Festive seasons are often celebrated across communities, and open houses are a shared tradition.
In East Malaysia, you might hear Happy Deepavali alongside greetings in Malay, Tamil, Iban, Kadazandusun or Mandarin. It is a wonderful reflection of the region's diversity. Our guide to Deepavali greetings in many languages shares more phrases.
Tips for Visitors and Newcomers
If you have recently moved to Sabah or Sarawak, Deepavali is a lovely chance to connect with neighbours and colleagues.
Even a short visit or a warm message means a lot to friends who may be celebrating far from extended family.
- Ask local friends about open houses or community events
- Bring a small gift such as halal sweets or fruit
- Check halal options, as many hosts are used to catering for Muslim guests
- Plan around work schedules in Sarawak, where many people will not have the day off
- Send greetings to friends who are celebrating far from family
Tip: If you work in Sarawak, ask colleagues who celebrate whether they are hosting an evening open house. Many prefer evenings since they may not have the day off.
FAQ
Is Deepavali a public holiday in Sarawak?
No. Deepavali is not a state public holiday in Sarawak, though many Hindus there still celebrate.
Is Monday 9 November 2026 a holiday in Sabah?
Yes. Sabah lists Monday 9 November as a replacement holiday for Deepavali.
Can friends of other backgrounds join open houses in East Malaysia?
Yes. Open houses are a shared tradition, and friends of all backgrounds are often welcomed.
Wherever Malaysians live, Deepavali brings people together. In Sabah and Sarawak, the celebrations may be smaller, but the warmth shines just as brightly.