Malaysia in January: Weather, Attractions and More
January is a dry month across the western half of the Malaysian Peninsula, making it a prime time to visit hotspots like Penang and Langkawi. Due to its humid tropical climate, a trip to Malaysia in January may come with some rain—particularly in the east like Borneo and the Perhentian Islands—though far less than in the monsoon months. Celebrate Chinese New Year, explore the exceptional cuisine, hike the Cameron Highlands, or bum around the beach in Malaysia in January.
Head west if you’re seeking sunshine, and don’t mind higher prices and fellow holidaymakers. Exploring on a rock-bottom budget? Or can’t stand the crowds? The rainier east coast is your best bet in January.
- Mohameed Sameer
- From Bangladesh
Weather in Malaysia in January
Known for its warm equatorial climate, Malaysia gets sizzling hot all year round. January is no exception, with typical maximum temperatures on the west coast (Kuala Lumpur, Penang, Malacca) hovering around 32°C (90°F). Over east, cloudy days and rain see the mercury dip to a more comfortable average of 29°C (84°F), but expect more humidity here.
Although average daily January temperatures don’t vary much throughout Malaysia, the expected monthly rainfall differs significantly from place to place. Minimal rain (about 40mm) brings peak travel season to Langkawi, which many sun lovers combine with an island-hopping adventure towards Thailand. Don’t plan a beach holiday on the eastern Perhentian Islands, however, as these receive a sopping wet average of 222 mm in January. This area receives plenty of rainfall due to the northeast monsoon. Consistent downpours might mean beach holidays aren’t ideal, even if they are dirt cheap.
For a more comprehensive guide on Malaysia’s weather, check out our guide on the best time to visit Malaysia.
Weather in Malaysia in January - Rainfall and Temperatures
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg Daily (°C) | 32 | 32 | 33 | 32 | 32 | 32 | 32 | 32 | 31 | 31 | 31 | 31 |
| Avg Nightly (°C) | 22 | 23 | 23 | 24 | 24 | 23 | 23 | 23 | 23 | 23 | 23 | 23 |
| Avg Daily (°F) | 90 | 90 | 92 | 90 | 90 | 90 | 90 | 90 | 88 | 88 | 88 | 88 |
| Avg Nightly (°F) | 72 | 74 | 74 | 76 | 76 | 74 | 74 | 74 | 74 | 74 | 74 | 74 |
| Avg Rainfall (mm) | 239 | 200 | 260 | 240 | 190 | 160 | 150 | 160 | 200 | 280 | 290 | 250 |
| Dec | Jan | Feb | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Avg Daily (°C) | 31 | 32 | 32 |
| Avg Nightly (°C) | 23 | 22 | 23 |
| Avg Daily (°F) | 88 | 90 | 90 |
| Avg Nightly (°F) | 74 | 72 | 74 |
| Avg Rainfall (mm) | 250 | 239 | 200 |
Why Visit Malaysia in January
There’s a myriad of compelling things to do in Malaysia in January, from picture-perfect weather to major festivals and cheap low-season rates:
- Excellent west weather: The Malaysian peninsula’s west coast receives less rain than most other months. Infrequent downpours make January a top time to devour street food delicacies in George Town or relax on a bright white Langkawi beach.
- Quiet moments on the east coast: As the northeast monsoon signals low season in the east, you won’t have to rub shoulders with hordes of other tourists. Plus, you’ll score some unbeatable discounts on tours and hotels.
- Chinese New Year: Ethnic Chinese comprise 22% of Malaysia’s population, so you can expect this event to go off with a bang. As it’s a lunar occasion, Chinese New Year often occurs in February as well.
Where to go and what to do
The January rule of thumb is to stay west. Across the western seaboard (and nearby inland regions), consistently pleasant weather makes up for the higher prices and thicker tourist crowds.
A tour of Kuala Lumpur is an obvious starting point for its handy international airport, KLIA. Take a happy snap from the top of the iconic Petronas Twin Towers and scale the technicolored staircase towards the Batu Caves. While January in the capital is often overcast, you’re not here to sunbathe.
The historical city of Malacca is a worthy stopover for its quaint old-world architecture and heaving street food-stuffed night markets.
For another decadent gastronomic adventure, hit the hip city of George Town, where a melting pot of cultures plates up Malaysia’s tastiest nosh. Popular belly pleasers include Char Koay Teow, Nasi Lemak, and—of course—Penang curry. The island of Penang hosts a plethora of picturesque beaches, ostentatious palaces and glimmering temples.
January is peak season in Langkawi, Malaysia’s most developed tropical paradise island. Once you’re done beach bumming in the sun, take a hike up Gunung Raya or a cable car towards the Langkawi Sky Bridge. Both offer epic views.
January is also ideal for trekking. If sweeping vistas of verdant tea plantations tickle your fancy, make your way to the cool, high-altitude region of the Cameron Highlands. Energetic nature-buffs won’t want to miss the wildlife-infested rainforests of Taman Negara National Park.
What to bring
Pack plenty of sun protection for your adventures on the west coast because bright blue skies are the norm here. As the weather in Malaysia in January is warm, plan to wear loose-fitting, lightweight clothing. January is a top time to trek, so don’t forget your hiking boots.
If you’re heading to the east or exploring Malaysian Borneo, you should expect wet and muddy conditions. A poncho/umbrella, mosquito repellent, and rain boots (if you’ll be working/walking outdoors) are essential.
Planning a trip to Malaysia in January?
January brings hot, mostly dry weather to the western side of the Malaysian Peninsula. However, the East Coast and Sarawak (Malaysian Borneo) cop a soaking from the northeast monsoon. As a result, the best place to visit Malaysia in January depends on what you’re looking for.
Need more in-depth info? Check out our Malaysia travel guide to learn how many days to spend in Malaysia, the best places to visit and more. You can also get in touch with our in-house team of experts for customized trips to Malaysia.
