The federal government has gazetted February 1, 2026, as a public holiday for both Thaipusam and Federal Territory Day. This applies across Peninsular Malaysia. The decision affects private-sector workers in the federal territories of Kuala Lumpur, Putrajaya, and Labuan.
Mandatory Holiday in Federal Territories
Federal Territory Day is a compulsory, non-substitutable public holiday for private employers in Kuala Lumpur, Putrajaya, and Labuan. This is required under Section 60D(1)(a)(iii) of the Employment Act 1955. The dual holiday falls on a Sunday.
Companies whose weekly rest day is Sunday must grant a replacement holiday on Monday. For employers who choose Thaipusam as one of their six optional holidays, a further replacement day must be given on Tuesday. This ensures workers receive proper time off for both occasions.
Flexible Option with Employee Consent
Employers may, with employee agreement, grant a different day as a paid holiday instead. This follows the provisions in subsection 60D(1A) of the Act. The arrangement allows flexibility while protecting workers’ entitlements.
Employees required to work on either Thaipusam or Federal Territory Day are entitled to holiday pay. The rate is set out in Section 60D(3) of the Employment Act. The department urged employers to comply fully with these rules.
