In Southeast Asian destinations, Malaysia is often chosen to explore eclectic experiences comprising serene nature, thrilling adventure, delectable cuisine, and rich culture. A mosaic of these experiences allures globetrotters to witness Malaysia’s diversity. Consisting of the Malay Peninsula and Borneo Island, the verdant rainforests, sweeping beach shores, and island excursions beckon nature enthusiasts. Malaysia’s vibrant cities have a fascinating blend of modernity and tradition, offering an enriching experience to tourists with interesting attractions. Whether you are interested in food, shopping, culture, or just soaking up the natural scenery, you will surely have a great time in this amazing destination. Let’s take a look at what’s in store for travellers visiting Malaysia in September.
Is September a good time to visit Malaysia
Malaysia enters its shoulder season as the monsoon transitions to winter, signalling the start of the busy leisure tourist season. The heavy humidity in the tropical air adds a misty ambience revealing a verdant landscape with a cooler, spring-time climate. The sea conditions are less choppy with mild winds that offer ideal conditions for watersports, scuba diving and snorkelling for adventurers. Though the best time to visit Malaysia starts in November, September is the perfect month to visit Malaysia to enjoy both indoor and outdoor attractions while taking advantage of low costs before they shoot up during peak seasons.
Weather in Malaysia in September
With the advent of September, Malaysia rolls into the tourist season. The temperature stays between 23°C-32°C and feels balmy along the coastlines. Being close to the Equator, Malaysia has an all-year-round equatorial hot climate, but the bouts of drizzle in September help cool things down for outdoor activities. The scattered rainfall also jolts the landscape into a refreshing vista. The tropical ambience is further enhanced with sunny days. While the West Coast tends to have more rainy days, the rest of the country enjoys mostly sunny weather. If you’re planning a trip to Penang, Langkawi, or Malacca in September, be prepared for rain and consider indoor activities. Kuala Lumpur with Cameron Highlands, East Coast islands and Sabah and Sarawak are a wonderful addition to your Malaysia travel itinerary.
- Temperature: Low 23 Degrees Celsius, High 31 Degrees Celsius
- Humidity: 80%
- Chance of Rain (%): 50%
- Daylight (Hrs): 12 Hrs
- Sunrise: 07:05 AM
- Sunset: 07.08 PM
Things to do in Malaysia in September
Enjoy luxury beach stays at Tioman Island
Located away from the eastern shores of the Malaysian Peninsula, Tioman Island welcomes you to enjoy a pleasant tropical climate with calmer waters and brighter skies. Take this opportunity to explore opulent leisure options while relaxing at pristine beach shores and even explore watersports in the clear calm waters in September. September is an ideal month for romantic escapes with Tioman Island offering chic beachfront resorts designed for couples, early bird discounts, and more during September.
Explore the sights of Kuala Lumpur
The capital city of Malaysia – Kuala Lumpur is one spot you wouldn’t want to miss experiencing on a Malaysia visit. There is no doubt that Kuala Lumpur is one of the best places to visit in Malaysia in September. Apart from the magnificent Petronas Towers and the City Centre, Kuala Lumpur tempts you to explore its shopping and grand food scene. The city also decks up beautifully in festive flair during the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day.
Head out for a fun day at Selangor
Just a few miles from Kuala Lumpur, Selangor is another hot spot to visit in September. Here, you get to visit the famous Batu Caves and experience bliss amid the verdant vistas of Cameron Highlands. Selangor is where you head to spend a day filled with thrill and fun at wonderful recreational venues such as Splashmania Water Park and Sunway Lagoon Theme Park, Malaysia. Witness wonders of nature with Fireflies tour, Sky Mirror tour and Blue Tears tours. Combine Kuala Lumpur and Selangor along with an excursion to Genting Highland to make the most of your time at these places in Malaysia.
Get a glimpse of the colonial era at Georgetown, Penang
September showers lend a misty, romantic charm to Georgetown’s colonial architecture, but Penang offers more than just history. Apart from the heritage sceneries of Georgetown, you can explore indoor attractions in Penang such as the Entopica butterfly farm, The Blue Mansion and visit shrines such as Leong San Tong Khoo Kongsi. If you don’t mind an adventure in the rain, set forth to explore the offbeat side of Penang with visits to hidden gems like Bukit Tambun, Balik Pulau and Kampung Agong.
Venture out on a wildlife expedition at Borneo
One of the things to do in Malaysia in September is to explore the refreshing wilderness and go wildlife spotting. While West Coast Malaysia shuns you from exploring the landscape due to intermittent showers, the east Malaysian destination of Borneo welcomes you with open arms to join on wildlife expedition adventures. Get up close with orangutans in their natural habitat at Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre and enjoy Kinabatangan river safaris to spot pygmy elephants, proboscis monkeys, and a variety of bird species. These are just a couple of the wilderness wildlife adventures you can enjoy in the untouched rainforests of Borneo.
Places to See in Malaysia in September
1. Kuala Lumpur and Selangor
Explore the Kuala Lumpur city with a rich cultural amalgam along with exquisite modern scenery. Combine with its neighbouring city of Selangor- home to cultural richness, fun adventures and natural beauty. Spend a couple of days in Kuala Lumpur and then take excursions to Selangor’s exciting attractions such as Batu Caves, Bukit Melawati, and Sunway Lagoon Theme Park.
2. Kota Kinabalu
The premier spot in Sabah – Borneo, Kota Kinabalu is beaches, wildlife, and adventure all rolled into one! Its coastal and rainforest fusion offers plenty of outdoor nature adventures to enjoy. Get a glimpse of a unique Malaysian culture at Sabah State Museum and Heritage Village and later go wildlife spotting at Lok Kawi Wildlife Park and Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park. Kota Kinabalu is where you can witness rare species of Malaysian wildlife such as orangutans, proboscis monkeys, pygmy elephants, and more.
3. Cameron Highlands
One of the best things to do in Malaysia in September is to escape to the beautiful verdant sceneries of Cameron Highland after visiting the dynamic city of Kuala Lumpur. The rains invigorate the Highlands offering a greener version you will ever encounter of this attraction. It’s known for its cool climate, tea plantations, strawberry farms, butterfly parks and beautiful landscapes which are perfect for a relaxing getaway!
4. Perhentian Islands
The Perhentian Islands are a slice of paradise off the coast of Malaysia. Teeming with crystal-clear, azure water comprising of vibrant coral reefs lapping on white sandy shores, it’s a haven for water sports enthusiasts who love to snorkel and dive, or for beach lovers to just chill by the beach.
Malaysia Festivals and Events in September
Check out local events and festivals in September in Malaysia. September might have some interesting cultural festivals you would love to experience.
September Festivals in Malaysia
Malaysia Day
September is the month in which the Federation of Malaysia was created to unify diverse cultures and states. Join the celebration as the country comes together to honour the spirit of unity and the birth of their beloved nation.
- When: 16th September 2024
- Location: Throughout Malaysia
KITA Food Festival
Here’s your chance to watch renowned chefs showcase their master skills in crafting menus with precision. KITA Food Festival offers a tantalizing array of Malaysian dishes, live music, and cultural performances for a memorable experience. It is among the most anticipated festivals in Malaysia in September for the year 2024.
- When: 4th – 8th September 2024
- Location: Kuala Lumpur
Moon Cake Festival
September is the time for reunion and gratitude as Malaysia’s Chinese community celebrates the Moon Cake Festival (Mid-Autumn Festival) with delectable mooncake feasts, vibrant lantern displays, and traditional customs. Apart from the entertainment, check out the exclusive moon cake collections baked to sweet perfection in some of the most opulent hotels in Kuala Lumpur.
- When: 17th September 2024
- Location: Throughout Malaysia
September Events in Malaysia
Tanjung Aru Beach Festival
Join the vibrant celebration of Sabah’s heritage and a coastal fervour featuring live music, dance, local cuisine, and beach activities at one of the most popular events in Malaysia in September – the Tanjung Aru Beach Festival.
- When: 21st – 22nd September 2024
- Location: Kota Kinabalu, Sabah
Travel Tips to Visit Malaysia in September
Here are some travel tips to make your September trip to Malaysia smooth and enjoyable:
- Since Malaysia weather in September does have rain showers, a watch on the future weather forecasts is necessary. Plan indoor activities or carry an umbrella for those sudden downpours.
- While Malaysia is quite modern, it’s respectful to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Make sure you cover your shoulders and knees. If you are unclear about the dress code, carry a shrug, light cardigan or shawl to add as a layer to your clothing.
- Get to know the local etiquette and language. Malaysians are generally friendly and polite, but some customs and etiquette are necessary to ensure you always remain in good books. English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas, but learning a few basic Malay phrases can be helpful and appreciated. Learn a few phrases in the Malay language such as simple greetings and saying Thank you.
- Although street food in Malaysia is delicious, ensure a basic understanding of hygiene when visiting these stalls. It is best to stick to busy stalls popular among locals to ensure genuine freshness and hygiene. Avoid drinking tap water. It is best to lean towards bottled water which is cheap and readily available.
- Malaysia is a multicultural country with a mix of Malay, Chinese, and Indian cultures. So, you should be respectful of local customs and traditions as a guest in this nation.
- Mosquitoes can be a problem during rainy months in Malaysia, so use insect repellent. Also, consider getting travel insurance that covers health.
- Malaysia is generally safe, but like any other place, be mindful of your belongings, especially in crowded areas.
Things to Know Before Visit to Malaysia in September
What to Pack for Malaysia in September
The first rule of packing for a journey is to keep it simple and light. However, some things must always be considered as essentials and non-negotiable parts of your packing trip to make the experience easy and convenient for you. While travelling to Malaysia in September, make sure you include insect repellents, sunscreen and wet wipes, an umbrella, raincoat and comfortable, waterproof shoes, universal chargers, travel insurance, hand sanitizer, a basic first aid kit and prescription medicines in your packing checklist. Keep some cash in hand in Malaysian Ringgit to avail of services or purchases from local vendors.
What to wear in Malaysia in September
September is still hot and humid in Malaysia, hence your attire for Malaysia September visit should mainly consist of light, airy cotton and linen clothes along with a few quick-dry tops and tracks. Though the rains wane off a bit in September, it is better to carry rainwear to avoid getting wet in occasional rains. Though Malaysia does not impose a strict code of dress compared to other Islamic countries, one should remember to dress modestly, especially in public and regional places. Carry formal attire if you wish to have a chic dining experience at an upscale restaurant in Malaysian cities with formal dress codes.
Getting Around Malaysia in September
Malaysia is well connected via air, rail, and road transport. Kuala Lumpur, the main hub for domestic and international flights, offers the greatest accessibility and is well-served by a rapid rail network. Travelling by public bus transport around Malaysia is economically best as they are low-cost travel options while providing good convenience to travellers. KTB is the largest bus operator in Malaysia with its services reaching all major towns and cities in Peninsula Malaysia. The next best way to explore Malaysia is by taxi or renting a car if you are comfortable and confident to drive on Malaysian roads. To reach Sabah and Sarawak, air travel is the only option due to the absence of ferry services.
Where to Stay in Malaysia in September
As it is shoulder season in Malaysia, September visit offers plenty of accommodation options in every criterion without burning a hole in your pocket. During September, places like Kuala Lumpur, Penang, Tioman Island, Sabah and Sarawak offer amazing hotel and resort stays at reasonable prices. But if you could splurge a bit, then why not take advantage of the shoulder season costs and treat yourself with sleek and stylish stays at hotels like The Prestige Georgetown, Ritz Carlton Kuala Lumpur, and Berjaya Tioman Hotel to name a few.
What to eat in Malaysia in September
One of the best things to do in Malaysia is to check out the impressive food scene. For foodies, Malaysia treats your tastebuds with an eclectic assortment of Asian and International cuisine. However, when you are here, you better tuck into Malaysian dishes. Work up your appetite with some satays before you indulge in wholesome servings of Roti Canai, Nasi Lemak, Laksa and a large variety of Noodle soups. Vegetarians have lots of options to enjoy vegetarian Nasi Lemak, Rojak and Apam Balik. Complete the wholesome palate with either a hot beverage like Kopi Tarik- the Malaysian hand-pulled coffee or Cendol – an icy, jelly dessert if you have a sweet tooth. There are plenty of food street stalls and cafes to check out, especially in Kuala Lumpur and Penang. You can also try a street-food-style buffet known as ‘Lok Lok’ if you aren’t sure what you would like to try. Not keen on street food? Explore the dining scene through Malaysia’s exquisite restaurants and rooftop lounges to give you a dining experience with aesthetic ambience or sweeping scenic views. Don’t skip the KITA Food Festival if you are an ardent fan of culinary skills and in awe of the best chefs in the world. You can watch them in action and even help yourself to grand gourmet styles dining experiences, workshops and more.
FAQs about Visiting Malaysia in September
Gain more clarity with the following FAQs about Malaysia in September.
1. What is the climate like in September in Malaysia?Malaysia has a tropical climate in September with rain showers that vary in intensity in various regions throughout the destination. The humidity levels are high but the coastal regions of the east are comparatively cooler than the west coast regions of Malaysia.
2. Is the weather great for outdoor outings in Malaysia in September?September sees sunshine and clear days, but it isn’t still out of the monsoon season. The weather is pleasant for outdoor excursions, especially on the Eastern coast of Malaysia and the cities of Kuala Lumpur and Selangor. However, be prepared for rains that are often short drizzles or intense downpours that don’t last long.
3. Which cities are best to visit in Malaysia in September?In September, stick to the east coast of Malaysia as these spots get lesser rainfall in September. Kuala Lumpur also has pleasant weather along with Selangor and George Town in Penang.
4. Can I go scuba diving in Malaysia in September?Yes, you can go scuba diving in Malaysia in September. However, you should stick to mild, clear islands and beaches with less tidal activity. Places like Sabah, Perhentian Islands, Redang and Tioman Island are perfect spots to explore scuba diving and other watersport activities in September.
Malaysia boasts a tropical climate all year round, but experienced travellers will tell you that these two factors vary throughout the year. September is a blend of rain with warm and balmy weather. The days are sunny with bouts of showers that regulate the warm and coolness of the day. The month of September unveils lush greenery, calm and serene waters and budget-friendly options to have a memorable time in September. So, get your visas ready and head for that dream Malaysian vacation with a chance to explore it at slashed prices.
