What Is Deepavali? A Beginner's Guide for Malaysians

Every year, homes across Malaysia light up with oil lamps and fairy lights, doorsteps bloom with colourful kolam, and the smell of murukku fills the air. This is Deepavali, one of Malaysia's major festivals. If you've grown up seeing it but never quite understood it, this guide is for you.

Deepavali in a Nutshell

Deepavali, also known as Diwali, is a festival celebrated mainly by Hindus. The name comes from Sanskrit, roughly meaning "a row of lamps". It's often called the Festival of Lights because of the lamps that are lit to symbolise the victory of light over darkness and good over evil.

In Malaysia, Deepavali is a public holiday in every state except Sarawak. In 2026, it falls on Sunday, 8 November, with Monday, 9 November as a replacement holiday in many states.

How Malaysians Celebrate

Preparing the Home

In the weeks before, families clean and decorate their homes, buy new clothes and prepare festive snacks. Shopping areas such as Brickfields in Kuala Lumpur and Little India in George Town become lively bazaars.

Deepavali Morning

For many Malaysian Hindu families, the day begins early with an oil bath, new clothes and prayers at home or at a temple. These are religious and family traditions.

Open Houses

Later in the day, many families hold open houses, welcoming relatives, neighbours and friends from all communities to share food. This is where the uniquely Malaysian spirit of the festival really shines.

Can Non-Hindus Join In?

Absolutely — in the social and cultural parts. Friends of all faiths, including Muslims, Chinese, Christians and others, commonly:

• Visit open houses and enjoy food (asking about halal status where needed)
• Send greetings such as "Happy Deepavali" or "Selamat Hari Deepavali"
• Admire kolam, lights and decorations
• Shop at festive bazaars
• Wear festive or traditional clothing to celebrations

The religious prayers and rituals belong to Hindu worshippers. Guests can respectfully observe if invited, but they aren't expected to take part — and Muslim friends can simply enjoy the hospitality and company.

Key Words to Know

• Kolam – decorative patterns drawn at entrances using rice flour or coloured powder
• Vilakku – oil lamp
• Murukku – a crunchy festive snack
• Rumah terbuka – open house

Why It Matters

Deepavali is a reminder of something Malaysians do well: celebrating each other's festivals. Whether it's Hari Raya, Chinese New Year, Christmas, Gawai, Kaamatan or Deepavali, sharing these occasions builds the friendships that hold our nation together.

Wishing you a bright and happy Deepavali — Selamat Hari Deepavali!