Ramadan Start (Awal Ramadan) 2026 in Malaysia

Awal Ramadan marks the beginning of the holy month of fasting for Muslims, determined by the official sighting of the new moon. It is observed as a public holiday in several Malaysian states, including Johor, Kedah, and Malacca. The day signifies spiritual reflection, prayer, and the start of daily fasting from dawn to sunset.

Ramadan Start (Awal Ramadan): A Public Holiday?

Awal Ramadan (the first day of Ramadan) is a public holiday in the Malaysian states of Johor, Kedah, and Malacca, although it is observed with religious significance and communal preparations across the entire country.

Ramadan Start (Awal Ramadan)

Awal Ramadan marks the beginning of the holy month of Ramadan in the Islamic calendar, which is based on the lunar cycle. It falls on the 1st of Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, and its start is determined by the sighting of the new moon. In Malaysia, this practice is guided by Islamic tradition and carried out officially by religious authorities. The Keeper of the Rulers' Seal, with input from JAKIM (Department of Islamic Development Malaysia), announces the start date based on both moon sighting and astronomical calculations.

Over time, Awal Ramadan became formally recognized in several states as a public holiday. States like Johor, Kedah, and Malacca observe this day as a state holiday, highlighting its importance in the local Islamic culture. Although it is not a public holiday nationwide, the announcement of Ramadan's start is observed with great respect across the country, bringing together communities in preparation for a sacred and reflective month.

Observance of Awal Ramadan in Malaysia

Awal Ramadan is welcomed with a sense of spiritual readiness, community warmth, and cultural tradition. Many Muslims attend special prayers at mosques on the evening before and morning of the first fasting day. Families begin the day with a pre-dawn meal called sahur, and communities prepare for the daily fast that lasts from dawn to sunset. Mosques are often filled for tarawih prayers at night, and people start adjusting their daily routines to focus more on faith and reflection.

The beginning of Ramadan also brings visible changes to Malaysian towns and cities. Streets and homes are decorated with lights and Islamic motifs, while bazaars begin operating in the late afternoons offering traditional foods for breaking fast. These markets are popular gathering places for both Muslims and non-Muslims, creating a sense of shared celebration. Schools and workplaces may also adjust hours to support those observing the fast.

Awal Ramadan is not just the start of fasting; it is the spiritual doorway into a month of self-discipline, generosity, and community bonding. It reminds Muslims of their religious duties and encourages unity across ethnic and cultural lines. The day sets the tone for a month filled with reflection, prayer, and acts of kindness, making it one of the most anticipated and meaningful times in the Islamic calendar.

Ramadan Start (Awal Ramadan) Observances