Malaysia Public Holiday
Malaysia Public Holiday
30
MAY
Sunday
Date
May 30, 2027
Type
State Holiday
Observed By
LabuanSabah
State Holiday

Harvest Festival (Kaamatan)

Last updated: Sep 9, 2026

Harvest Festival (Kaamatan) falls on Saturday, May 30, 2026 and Sunday, May 30, 2027. It is a public holiday in Labuan and Sabah.

State Holiday

Harvest Festival is a major cultural celebration in East Malaysia, known as Pesta Kaamatan in Sabah (celebrated by the Kadazan-Dusun and Murut communities) and Hari Gawai in Sarawak (celebrated by the Dayak communities). It is a time to give thanks to the spirits and God for a bountiful rice harvest and to pray for a successful season ahead.

Source: Cabinet Division, Prime Minister's Department, Malaysia Government Portal and state government announcements.

Traditions & Celebrations

  • Traditional Rituals: In Sabah, the Magavau ceremony is performed to invite the spirit of the rice, while in Sarawak, rituals are held at the longhouses to offer thanks to the gods.
  • Cultural Performances: Communities showcase traditional dances like the Sumazau (Sabah) and Ngajat (Sarawak) accompanied by rhythmic gong music.
  • Traditional Food and Drink: Special delicacies such as bamboo-cooked rice (Lemang) and traditional rice wine (Tapai or Tuak) are shared among guests.
  • Beauty Pageants and Competitions: In Sabah, the Unduk Ngadau (beauty queen) pageant is a highlight, alongside traditional sports and singing competitions (Sugandoi).
  • Open Longhouses: Homes and longhouses are opened to friends and visitors of all backgrounds to feast and celebrate together.

Upcoming Dates

YearDateDayStatus
2026May 30, 2026SaturdayPassed
2027May 30, 2027Sunday230 days

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