After the success of Visit Malaysia Year 2007, the Ministry of Tourism has decided to extend the campaign for the year 2008. Together with this extension are Malaysia for many events that will be carried out for visitors like you to choose and participate in. Join and participate in some events if you’re around to make your visit to Malaysia a time unforgettable.

JANUARY
23 January 2008 : Thaipusam
This is a religious festival for the Hindus which draw visitors and foreigners. The main celebration is held in Batu Caves, Selangor.

FEBRUARY
1-2 Feb 2008 : Sauk Sotong Langkawi 2008 (Squid Fishing Fiesta)
Organised by Tourism Langkawi, this squid fishing fiesta main attraction is to find out who got the biggest squid. Prizes await the winners at this fun-filled island of Langkawi in Kedah.
Tel: +6 04 969 8080
Email: info@tourismlangkawi.gov.my

7-8 Feb 2008 : Chinese New Year
This auspicious occasion is celebrated for 15 days by the Chinese of Malaysia. Other races join in the celebration by attending open houses throughout the country. Large scale open houses are organised with plenty of food for everyone to enjoy. This is one of the major Malaysia events that you should join.
Lion dance and angpows are given out during this time. Look out for the announcement on newspaper for the venue of the open houses. Contact the Ministry of Culture Arts & Heritage, Malaysia for more information.
Tel: +6 03 2612 7600
Website: www.heritage.gov.my

8 Feb - 31 Dec 2008 : Genting International Show
This show will be held in Genting Highlands, the city of entertainment up in the hills of Pahang. Shows include the world class performances of illusions, acrobats, dances and showcase of exotic animals.

9 Feb - 17 Feb, 2008 : Le Tour de Langkawi 2008
Similar to Le Tour De Frnce, this annual event will bring together the best cyclists in the world to compete in Malaysia. Langkawi Island will be the starting point with the ending venue at Dataran Merdeka in Kuala Lumpur.
Website: www.tdl.com.my

3 Feb 2008 : Langkawi Ironman Triathlon 2008
See the 300 participants compete against one another as they swim for 3.8km, bike race for 180.3km and marathon running for 43.3km in the duty free beautiful island of Langkawi. This event has been certified as among the toughest in the world.
Website:www.ironmanlangkawi.com.my

MARCH
1-24 March 2008 : KL Grand Prix City
This month long event is held in conjunction with Petronas Malaysian F1 Grand Prix that will be held form 21-23 March 2007. Many entertaining and exciting exhibitions will be held in the city of Kuala Lumpur. Many shopping discounts will also be offered in various shopping complexes especially in Bukit Bintang area from 14-23 March, 2008.

21-23 March 2008 : Petronas Malaysian F1 Grand Prix 2008
This premier season opener Formula One is held annually in Sepang during the tropical heat of the day. Come and see the excitement and roaring sound of the world class cars from Ferari, BMW, Toyota, Honda etc. This is one of the major Malaysia events that you should join if you are into car racing.
Venue: Sepang International Circuit
Tel: +6 03 8778 2222
Website: http://www.malaysiangp.com.my

24-27 March 2008 : World Amateur Inter-Team Golf Championship
Held at the KGSAAS & Tropicana Golf and Country Club in Petaling Jaya, this golfing event helps to promote Malaysia as a top golfing destination.
Tel: +6 03 5633 2079 / +6 03-5634 2078
Website: http://www.waitgc.com

APRIL
4-5 April 2008 : Genting International Jazz Festival
This event will be held in Genting Highlands where international jazz performances will be held during this two days of April. Head for Genting and have a good time there.

4-6 April 2008 : Langkawi Water Festival 2008 (Malaysia Water Festival 2008)
Held in Langkawi, this water festival is a 3-day event with over 50 water sports and beach games. Head for this island and you could prizes and lucky draws.
Tel: +6 04 9698 080

6 April 2008 : Port Dickson International Half Marathon 2008
This 21km half marathon will be held at the Admiral Marina & Leisure Club. As in previous years, this event is expected to draw international participants as well as Malaysians to this beach town of Port Dickson. Come, enjoy the run and the fun.
Tel: +6 06 765 9870 or +6 06 647 0888
Website: www.admiralmarina.com.my

9-16 April 2008 : 11th International Malay Archipelago Drums Festival (Invitational)
Held in the historical state of Melaka, this drums festival will showcase over 24 cultural troupes from China, Indonesia, Portugal and other countries. Venue of the festival will be at:
Dataran Pahlawan, Mahkota Parade , Dataran Bandaraya MBMB
Tel: +6 06 232 6411
Website: www.mbmb.gov.my

19-20 April 2008 : 15th Regatta Lepa Semporna – Water Festival
Held in Semporna in the state of Sabah, this water festival will include a competition of the most beautiful traditional sailboats. Tug of war, kayak race and boat racing will also be held as part of the festival during this 2 days of fun and excitement.
Phone: +6 089 781 518 or +6 088 232 121
Website: www.sabahtourism.com

19-27 April 2008: Labuan International Sea Challenge (Malaysia Water Festival 2008)

Participants from around the globe are invited to join the kayak competition, boat tug-of-war competition, game fishing, boat race and cross channel swimming during this time of fun in the duty free island of Labuan.

• Labuan International Extreme Kayak Challenge (20-21 Apr)
• Labuan Boat Tug-of-War (21 Apr)
• ROLEX IGFA International Game Fishing Tournament (22-27 Apr)
• Labuan Intenational Boat Race (26-27 Apr)
• Round Island Kayak Challenge (27 Apr)
• Cross Channel Swimming Challenge (27 Apr)

This is one of the major Malaysia events that you should join if you are in Labuan.
Tel: +6 087 408 744/422 622
Website: www.labuantourism.com.my

MAY
2-4 May 2008 : Penang World Music Festival
Held at the Botanical Garden in Penang, this three days event will showcase the talents of many international and local musicians to make your day a memorable one.
Tel : +6 04 262 0202

3-4 May 2008 : Sabah Fest 2008
Held in Kota Kinabalu in Sabah, this event will feature the cultures and traditions of the various ethnic groups in Sabah through music, dance, fashion and food. The annual Harvest Festival will be held after this festival.
Tel : +6 088 232 121/212 121
Website: www.sabahtourism.com

9-10 May 2008 : Miri International Jazz Festival 2008
Held in Miri in Sarawak, this is another event with international jazz performances set amidst the lush tropical rainforests and beaches.
Tel: +6 085 434 181
Website: www.mirijazzfestival.com

9-11 May 2008 : Fiesta Candat Sotong Antarabangsa 2008 (International Squid Jigging)
This exciting squid jigging fiesta will be held in the beautiful island of Pulau Redang. If you have yet to try this sport, head for this island and you will not regret it.
Tel: +6 09 626 2946/623 1957

19 May 2008 : Wesak
Celebrated by the Buddhist, it is considered the holiest day in the Buddhist Calendar. It marks the birth, enlightenment and final passing away of the Buddha.
Further information can be obtained by contacting:
Tel: +6 03 2612 7600
Website: www.heritage.gov.my

24 May 2008: Colours of Malaysia 2008
Colours of Malaysia Festival will give you an opportunity to learn about the Malaysian people and the diverse cultures. This annual event brings all the heritage and culture of Malaysians from all states. Various delicacies of the different ethnic groups of Malaysia will be featured here as well. This year’s event will be held in Putrajaya.
This is one of the major Malaysia events that you should join if you are in Putrajaya.
Tel: +6 03 2693 7111
Website: www.motour.gov.my

JUNE
1 June 2008: Gawai Dayak Festival
This harvest festival is celebrated by the Ibans and Bidayuh in Sarawak. This annual fesival will showcase the traditional costumes and ceremonial offerings.
Tel: +6 082 423 600
Website: www.sarawaktourism.com

15 June 2008 : 23rd Sabah Dragon Boat Race 2008
This annual event has attracted many international participants from Australia, Hong Kong, Japan, China and Brunei. This event will be held in Kota Kinabalu. While here, remember to visit Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park and Kinabalu National Park.
Tel: +6 088 232 121/260 431
Website: www.sabahtourism.com

17-22 June 2008 : Japan GT, Sepang
Started in 1994, the Japan GT Championship Series (JGTC) is the most popular category in Japan’s motorsports world. One of its race is held here in Sepang, Selangor.
Tel: +6 03 8778 2222
Website: www.malaysiangp.com.my

22 June 2008 : Penang Bridge International Marathon, Penang
This annual event will see participants from all over the globe running across the third longest bridge in the world. Great prizes awaits the winners of this international event.
Further information can be obtained by contacting:
Tel: +6 04 262 0202
This is one of the major Malaysia events that you should join if you are into marathon running or just for the fun of it.

23 June - 29 June: Fiesta San Pedro, Melaka
Fiesta San Pedro is a major annual celebration of the Portuguese fishing community in the historical state of Melaka. Traditional games, cultural performances, food fairs and the best decorated boat contest make it an interesting event not to be missed.
Further information can be obtained by contacting:
Tel: +6 06 281 560 or +0 06 262 0202

JULY
6 July 2008 : Ipoh Open International Run
Join the many runners in this international run which will be held in Ipoh, the capital of Perak. While here, remember to try the pomelo, a popular and juicy fruit of Perak.
Tel: +6 05 241 3733

11-13 July 2008 : Rainforest World Music Festival, Sarawak Cultural Village
Visit Sarawak on the island of Borneo go to see the living museum known as Sarawak Cultural Village. Musicians from around the world will gather here to celebrate a fusion of nature, culture and ethnic music. If you have the time, head for Bako National Park near Kuching and you will not regret it.
Further information can be obtained by contacting:
Tel: +6 082 423 600
Website: www.sarawaktourism.com

12 - 13 July 2008 : Port Dickson International Triathlon, Negeri Sembilan
This triathlon consists of a combination of 3 events namely running, swimming and cycling. More than 1,000 participants from all over the world is expected to compete. This event will be held in the resort beach town of Port Dickson.
Further information can be obtained by contacting:
Tel: +6 06 647 0888
Website: www.admiralmarina.com.my

18 July 2008 - 3 Aug 2008 : Malaysia Flora Fest 2008
This parade will show the various Malaysian culture, craft and cuisine that is celebrated over an entire month.

• 20 July: Flora Run (Florathon) - Dataran Merdeka, Kuala Lumpur
• 26 July: Flora Fest Parade - Putrajaya Boulevard, Putrajaya.
• 26–28 July: Static Display of Floats - Putrajaya.
• 29 June - 21 July: Floral Photography Exhibtion

Tel : +6 03 2693 7111
Website: www.motour.gov.my
This is one of the major Malaysia events that you should join as there will be many colourful flowers on display on this day.

18-20 July 2008 : Genting World Lion Dance Championship
Held in Genting Highlands, this event gathers the best lion dance troupes from around the world to compete for the coveted title of “The World Lion King”. Head for Genting and you will enjoy the acrobatics and dance during this three days event.

18 July 2008 - 9 Aug 2008 : KL Samrah Festival 2008
Held in Bukit Bintang at the Bintang Walk, this event is to welcome the arrival of Middle Eastern tourists to malaysia. Arabian music and concerts will be held during the four weekends.
18-19 July
25- 26 July
1-2 August
8-9 August
Phone: +6 03 2617 6272
Website: www.kualalumpur.gov.my

18-20 July 2008 : Perak International Skydive
Held in the capital city of Ipoh, this event will feature local participants from Selangor and Kelantan as well as international professional sky divers from Singapore, Australia and United States. If you have the time, make plan to visit Kellie’s Castle and Tempurung Cave near Ipoh. Tel: +6 05 312 7359
This is another Malaysia events that you should join if you are into sky diving.

AUGUST
1-3 August 2008 : Sarawak Regatta
Held in Kuching, watch the state’s expert boatmen take up their paddles to prove their prowess for the event. Water jet ski and kayak races will also be held during this three days event.
Tel: +6 082 243 301 / 414 405
This is one of the Malaysia events that you should join if you are in Kuching, Sarawak.

15-30 August 2008 : Malaysia International Fireworks Competition, Putrajaya
Head for Putrajaya. and see the finest fireworks on display by all the competitors that compete to outdo one another.
Further information can be obtained by contacting:
Tel: +6 03 2693 7111
Email: info@motour.gov.my
This is one of the major Malaysia events that you should join with your whole family.

23-24 August 2008: TM 22nd Mt. Kinabalu International Climbathon 2008
This two days event is one of “The World’s Toughest Mountain Race” where participants will scale 21km to the peak of Kinabalu mountain and descend in 3 hours. Remember to visit Poring Hot Springand Kinabalu National Park if you have the time to spare.
Tel: +6 088 232 121
Website: www.sabahtourism.com

31 August 2008 : Merdeka Month Celebration
This day commemorates Malaysia’s 51st year of independance or ‘Merdeka’ in Malay Language. See the open air concert on the eve of Merdeka day on 30 August. The colourful parade will be held on the morning of the Merdeka Day. The Merdeka day celebration is held in every major city in Malaysia.
Further information can be obtained by contacting:
Tel: +6 03 2615 8188 or +6 03 8888 1957
Website: www.tourism.gov.my
This is one of the major Malaysia events that you should join to know more about the history and the various ethnic groups of Malaysia.

SEPTEMBER
8-10 Sept 2008 : Royal Pahang Billfish International Challenge
Anglers will be competing for the biggest fish in this tropical rainforest of Rompin, Johor. This “catch and release” fishing event will have many international participants with attractive cash prizes to be won.
Tel: +6 09 514 1203/513 7235

OCTOBER
1-2 Oct 2008 : Hari Raya Aidilfitri Celebration
Join the celebration as Malaysian muslim end their fasting month. Relatives and friends are invited to many open houses where they will be treated with various traditional food and delicacies. Look out for the open house announcement on the paper and join in the celebration.
Further information can be obtained by contacting:
Tel: +6 03 2612 7600
Website: www.heritage.gov.my
This is one of the major Malaysia events that you should join as this event is celebrated by more than 60% of Malaysia’s population.

27 Oct 2008 : Deepavali Celebration and Open House
The triumph of good over evil is celebrated by Hindus on the seventh month of the Hindu calendar. Look out for announcement on the various open house that will be held in the country.
Further information can be obtained by contacting:
Tel: +6 03 2612 7600
Email: info@heritage.gov.my

NOVEMBER
1 Nov 2008 -31 Dec 2008 : Penang International Lantern Festival
Held in Penang, The Penang International Lantern Festival is celebrated during the full moon of the Chinese Calendar that features many intricately designed lanterns with multiple motifs.
Tel: +6 04 262 0202

1-30 Nov 2008 : Malaysia International Gourmet Festival
Taste an array of exquisite meals in this month-long festival! Known as Malaysia’s premier gastronomic event, this event showcases Malaysia’s finest restaurants and the exclusive menus they offer.
Tel: +6 03-22284 2388/22282 8028
Website: www.migf.com

1-8 Nov 2008 : Darwin-Bali PD-Langkawi Yacht Rally 2008
This yacht event is another marathon race that you will enjoy to see.
Tel: +6 06 647 0888
Website: www.admiralmarina.com.my

7-9 Nov 2008 : FEI World Endurance Championship 2008
This event will be held in Terengganu where participants are expected to come form over 15 countries. This competition tests the endurance of competing horses in four categories. It is also the official trial race for the FEI World Endurance 2008.
Tel: +6 09 623 1957 or +6 03 7713 5585
Website: www.tourism.terengganu.gov.my

8-9 Nov 2008 : Taman Negara Eco-Challenge
The world’s top runners compete in this two-day event where participants will ascend the 2,187 metre high Gunung Tahan. Attractive prizes await the winners of this challenging event.
Tel: +6 09 517 1111 / 517 1112
Website: www.pahangtourism.com.my

9 Nov 2008 : Powerman Malaysia
Held in Lumut, this annual sea event incorporates cycling, running and swimming in a duration of 5 hours during the day. Participants with the fastest time recorded wins.
Tel: +6 03 2263 3388

14-16 Nov 2008 : Paintball World Cup Series Asia 2008
This world class paintball championship is endorsed by key paintball organizations from the US and Europe. Other teams from Asia will also be here in this capital city of Kuala Terengganu.
Tel: +6 09 623 1957 / 626 2946

27 Nov - 1 Dec 2008 : Monsoon Cup Terengganu 2008
This Monsoon Cup is a part of the prestigious Swedish Match Tour. Take the opportunity to visit the many beautiful beaches here.
Further information can be obtained by contacting:
Tel: +6 09 623 1957 or +6 03 2142 2882

28-30 Nov 2008 : Genting International Magic Festival
Held in Genting Highlands, this event will showcase the largest gathering of the best international magicians and illusionists in Malaysia.

28-30 Nov 2008 : Islanders Music Dance Festival Langkawi 2008
Catch all the dynamic and enthralling performances from various island musical troupes and dances in this beautiful island of Langkawi.
Tel: +6 04 969 8080

29 Nov 2008 - 4 Jan 2009 : Malaysia Year End Sale
The Malaysia Year End Sale is back with great discounts and bargains on a wide variety of merchandise. Wait no longer, this is the time for the ultimate shopping indulgence. Head for the many shopping complexes in the city and you will not regret it.
Tel: +6 03 2698 1033
Website: www.mymegasale.com

DECEMBER
1-31 Dec 2008 : KL International Buskers Festival, Kuala Lumpur
Busking is the art of street performance, done with absolutely no rehearsals. See the acrobats, knife-eaters, creative dancers, comedians and jugglers.
Further information can be obtained by contacting:
Tel: +6 03 2698 1033
Website: www.malaysiabuskers.com

4-7 Dec 2008 : Penang Island Jazz Festival
Held at the popular Ferringhi Beach in Penang, this Jazz Festival will showcase performances of over 50 local and international jazz artistes.
Tel: 603 2093 4725

25 Dec 2008 : Christmas Celebration and Open House
Join the Malaysian christians as they celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ. Look out for the various open house in the paper.
Further information can be obtained by contacting:
Tel: +6 03 2612 7600
Website: www.heritage.gov.my

* The listings above are some of the major events that you can participate in Malaysia. Get more information from tourism malaysia as the events approach. The listings above may subject to changes without prior notice.