Climate and monthly weather forecast
Malaysia

Positioned near the equator, Malaysia is a tropical paradise with an enchanting mosaic of lush rainforests, highlands, and coastal regions. This Southeast Asian nation experiences a stable tropical rainforest climate year-round, attributed to its close proximity to the equator. As a result, Malaysia endures high temperatures and significant humidity, with an average annual temperature hovering around 27°C (80.6°F). Precipitation in the country is copious and evenly distributed throughout the year, with average annual rainfall measuring from 2000mm (78.74") to 2500mm (98.43"), signifying the absence of a defined dry season. Yet, the country does have a distinction between seasons, marked not by temperature changes, but by the quantity and timing of rainfall, namely the Southwest Monsoon (May to September) and the Northeast Monsoon (November to March).

Malaysia welcomes visitors at any time of the year, given its consistent tropical weather. However, considering rainfall patterns, the months from June to August can be considered optimal for travel. During this period, Malaysia experiences the Southwest Monsoon, which tends to be drier, particularly in regions on the western side of Peninsular Malaysia. Thus, tourists can enjoy exploring the bustling cities and scenic beaches under clearer skies. Nonetheless, sporadic showers can still be expected, as the country maintains its lush greenery.

Identifying the least favorable time to visit Malaysia can be somewhat subjective, as it largely depends on one's tolerance to rainfall and planned activities. Generally, the months from November to March, marking the Northeast Monsoon, see heavy rainfall particularly in the eastern regions of Peninsular Malaysia and Borneo. These torrential downpours can disrupt outdoor activities and occasionally lead to flooding, making this period less ideal for tourism.

Given its tropical climate, Malaysia does not experience conventional spring weather. However, if one were to equate the period from March to May with spring, they would find Malaysia subject to increasing precipitation leading up to the Southwest Monsoon. Temperatures during this time remain consistently high, averaging 28°C (82.4°F). This period also sees a surge in humidity, creating a warm and moist atmosphere that can be stifling but also immensely nourishing to the country's rich biodiversity.

The period of June to August, corresponding with a typical 'summer', coincides with the Southwest Monsoon in Malaysia. Despite being a monsoon season, the western coast of the Peninsular experiences relatively less rainfall. The weather stays uniformly hot, with average temperatures from 27°C (80.6°F) to 32°C (89.6°F), complemented by high humidity. This makes it an opportune time to explore the west coast beaches and cities, where rainfall is more predictable and typically confined to late afternoon.

Malaysia does not undergo a traditional autumn season due to its tropical climate. From September to November, however, the country braces itself for the transition from the Southwest to the Northeast Monsoon. Rainfall during this period intensifies, especially along the east coast and in Borneo. Temperatures remain fairly constant, averaging 27°C (80.6°F), while high humidity prevails.

In lieu of a traditional winter, Malaysia experiences the Northeast Monsoon from December to February. This period is characterized by heavy rainfall, particularly in the eastern regions and Borneo, while the west coast of Peninsular Malaysia remains relatively dry. Despite the intense rain, the temperature stays fairly constant, with averages from 26°C (78.8°F) to 30°C (86°F). It is worth noting that the highlands offer cooler temperatures, dropping to 20°C (68°F), which can provide a respite from the heat and humidity for both locals and tourists alike.

January in Malaysia is within the period of the Northeast Monsoon, characterized by substantial rainfall particularly in eastern Peninsular Malaysia and the regions of Borneo. Notable cities such as Kota Bharu and Kuantan on the east coast of the peninsula and Kuching in Borneo typically experience heavy rainfall, which can occasionally result in localized flooding. The amount of rainfall in January is substantially higher than in December, marking it as one of the wettest months of the year. Weather in January »

February is the final month of the Northeast Monsoon season in Malaysia, and it generally signifies a gradual decrease in rainfall across the country. Cities along the east coast of the peninsula such as Kota Bharu and Kuantan, and areas of Borneo including Kuching, still receive a significant amount of rain, but less than the preceding month of January. Weather in February »

March signals the beginning of the first inter-monsoon period in Malaysia, a time characterized by decreased rainfall, relative to the Northeast Monsoon season, and increased sunlight. Rainfall is generally lower across the entire country, with both Peninsular Malaysia and Borneo seeing reduced precipitation. Weather in March »

April lies in the heart of the first inter-monsoon season in Malaysia, typified by somewhat unpredictable weather patterns. The country sees increased thunderstorm activity during the afternoon and early evening, primarily due to rising temperatures and humidity levels. Weather in April »

May ushers in the transition from the first inter-monsoon season to the Southwest Monsoon in Malaysia. As such, this month sees a slight increase in rainfall and cloud cover. The west coast of the peninsula, including cities like Kuala Lumpur, Penang, and Malacca, experiences average rainfall amounts of approximately 200mm (7.87") to 250mm (9.84"). Weather in May »

June marks the onset of the Southwest Monsoon in Malaysia. Contrary to what the term 'monsoon' may suggest, the weather during this period is relatively dry, especially along the west coast of Peninsular Malaysia. Kuala Lumpur, Penang, and Malacca experience a decrease in average rainfall, with amounts ranging between 100mm (3.94") and 150mm (5.91"). Weather in June »

July is a month within the Southwest Monsoon season in Malaysia. This period is known for its relatively dry conditions, particularly along the west coast of the peninsula. Cities such as Kuala Lumpur, Penang, and Malacca experience lower average rainfall, with amounts ranging from 100mm (3.94") to 150mm (5.91"). Weather in July »

August continues the Southwest Monsoon season in Malaysia, characterized by relatively dry and sunny conditions. The west coast of the peninsula, including Kuala Lumpur, Penang, and Malacca, receives the lowest average rainfall of the year, ranging from 100mm (3.94") to 150mm (5.91"). Weather in August »

September signifies the transition from the Southwest Monsoon to the second inter-monsoon season in Malaysia. This period is typically characterized by increased rainfall and cloud cover compared to the preceding months. The west coast of the peninsula, including Kuala Lumpur, Penang, and Malacca, sees an increase in average rainfall, with amounts ranging from 150mm (5.91") to 200mm (7.87"). Weather in September »

October falls within the second inter-monsoon season in Malaysia, a period known for unpredictable weather and increased rainfall. The west coast of the peninsula, including Kuala Lumpur, Penang, and Malacca, experiences a noticeable increase in precipitation, with average rainfall amounts ranging from 200mm (7.87") to 250mm (9.84"). Weather in October »

November in Malaysia marks the onset of the Northeast Monsoon season, characterized by a significant increase in rainfall, especially in the eastern regions of the country. The west coast of the peninsula, including Kuala Lumpur, Penang, and Malacca, receives an average rainfall of about 250mm (9.84") to 300mm (11.81"). Weather in November »

December is well into the Northeast Monsoon season in Malaysia, a period marked by heavy rainfall, particularly in the eastern regions of the country. The west coast of the peninsula, which includes cities like Kuala Lumpur, Penang, and Malacca, experiences a slightly lower amount of rainfall compared to the previous month, with averages between 200mm (7.87") and 250mm (9.84"). Weather in December »