From August through October, Malaysia is buzzing with events and seasonal experiences that can add a whole new dimension to your clients’ itineraries — whether they’re visiting for the first time or returning for another Southeast Asian adventure.
Malaysia’s Festive & Cultural Highlights
National Day (31 Aug–1 Sep) – Parades, performances and fireworks nationwide celebrate Malaysia’s unity and diversity. City centres will be busier, offering travellers an energetic, patriotic atmosphere.
Hungry Ghost Festival (6 Sep; 23 Aug–21 Sep lunar month) – Penang and other cultural hubs come alive with getai stage shows, puppet theatre and street offerings, a rare and colourful experience for visitors.
Events & Seasonal Highlights
- Tour de Langkawi (28 Sep–5 Oct 2025) – Malaysia’s premier cycling race starts in Langkawi and winds through Fraser’s Hill, Kuala Lumpur, Melaka, Johor, before finishing in Sarawak. The route showcases Malaysia’s diverse landscapes, from coastal roads to challenging highland climbs.
Plan ahead: Expect rolling road closures and traffic delays in host locations during race days — especially in city centres and scenic highland routes.
- Singapore Formula 1 Grand Prix (3–5 Oct 2025) – The 2025 race shifts to early October, drawing motorsport fans from around the world.
Plan ahead: Room availability may be limited, and hotels may apply stricter cancellation and payment policies during this period. Please contact our team in advance for any bookings over this period.
Plan Ahead: Limited Availability for Borneo’s Top Lodges
Sukau, Danum Valley, Tabin and Kinabatangan remain some of Borneo’s most sought-after stays and demand for 2026 is already outpacing supply, with some dates limited or sold out as early as Q1. To secure preferred rooms and dates, we recommend booking at least 12 months in advance. For more options without sacrificing the experience, consider May–June or October–November, when wildlife encounters and rainforest conditions are equally rewarding. With the high season underway, our teams across Malaysian Borneo and Peninsular Malaysia are ready to help lock in these rare stays and ensure your guests experience the region at its very best.
Cross-Border Transfers: New Procedure for Singapore–Malaysia Routes
Effective immediately, all transfers from Singapore to Malaysia will require a vehicle change at the border due to new regulations.
- Guests will travel within Singapore in a Singapore-licensed vehicle.
- At the border, they will meet our Malaysian service provider, who will continue the journey onward.
Guest notes:
- Luggage must be collected and carried through immigration.
- Processing times vary (expect longer waits on weekends and holidays).
- Covered walkways are available in case of rain.
- Vehicle type and configuration may differ between segments, even within the same booked category.
EXO Travel Malaysia is working closely with partners on both sides to ensure a smooth and reliable process.
Power Bank Safety Update Onboard Flights
Starting 1 April 2025, AirAsia has introduced new rules for carrying power banks:
- No charging or use onboard during any phase of the flight.
- Carry-on only — keep with you or in the seat pocket, not in checked baggage or overhead compartment storage.
- Individually packed (sealed pouch, plastic bag or original packaging) to prevent short circuits.
- Items over 100Wh (up to 160Wh) require airline approval at check-in before boarding.
These measures are designed to uphold the highest safety standards for all passengers.
National Day at the Office
August brought splashes of colour to our offices as Singapore and Malaysia marked their National Days. In Singapore, the team turned up in red and white, while in Malaysia, the team donned their traditional attire — a cheerful reminder of the pride and diversity that run through our EXO family.