Ramadan 2026 Malaysia: Start Date, Public Holiday & Employer Planning Guide

Ramadan 2026 in Malaysia is expected to begin on 19 February 2026 (Thursday).

For employers, this is not just a religious observance, it is a predictable annual workforce cycle that affects productivity, leave patterns, payroll timing, and shift planning.

With Ramadan moving earlier each year, businesses that prepare early will minimise manpower gaps and operational disruptions.

Here’s what employers and HR teams need to know about Ramadan 2026 Malaysia.

When Is Ramadan 2026 in Malaysia?

Ramadan 2026 is expected to run from:

Start: 19 February 2026 (Thursday)
End: 21 March 2026 (Saturday)

The official date will be confirmed after the national moon sighting announcement.

Employers should update internal calendars, shift rosters, and payroll timelines in advance.

Is Ramadan 2026 a Public Holiday in Malaysia?

The first day of Ramadan (Awal Ramadan) is not a nationwide public holiday.

For 2026 (expected 19 February):

Johor – State public holiday
Kedah – State public holiday

States such as Melaka and Perlis have previously declared special administrative leave for civil servants on the first day of Ramadan. Employers should monitor official announcements closer to the date.

In most other states, operations continue as usual.

For companies operating across multiple states, confirming state-level holiday differences early helps prevent payroll misclassification and staffing confusion.

How Ramadan 2026 May Impact Your Workforce

Ramadan influences workplace rhythm in predictable ways.

Productivity Adjustments

Energy levels may fluctuate, particularly in physically demanding roles.

Leave Clustering Before Hari Raya

Annual leave requests typically increase toward the final week of Ramadan.

Working Hour Preferences

Many employees prefer starting earlier and finishing earlier.

Prayer Break Considerations

Short prayer breaks may be required during working hours.

Managers who anticipate these patterns can allocate tasks more efficiently.

Payroll & Compliance Considerations

HR risks often increase during this period.

Public holiday pay rules apply in states observing Awal Ramadan.
Overtime should be monitored to prevent fatigue-related issues.
Early payroll processing may be required before Hari Raya.
Leave approvals should be staggered to avoid operational gaps.

Strong coordination between HR and payroll teams is essential.

Industries Most Affected During Ramadan

Retail & F&B – Increased evening demand
Logistics & Delivery – Pre-Raya shipment peak
Manufacturing – Shift rotation management
Healthcare – Continuous staffing requirements
Customer Service – Adjusted response capacity

Industry-specific planning ensures operational continuity.

HR Best Practices for Ramadan 2026 Malaysia

Communicate working arrangements early
Adjust meeting schedules to earlier hours
Review shift rotations before the month begins
Promote respectful workplace culture
Prepare manpower backup for Raya week

Proactive communication prevents avoidable disruptions.

Ramadan 2026 Wishes for Employees, Business Partners & HR Professionals

Sharing a thoughtful Ramadan message strengthens relationships across your organisation and professional network.

Ramadan Mubarak. May this holy month bring strength and clarity to you and your team.
Wishing you a meaningful Ramadan filled with peace and professional growth.
May Ramadan 2026 bring renewed motivation and balance to your work and life.
Ramadan Kareem. Thank you for your continued collaboration and dedication.
Wishing your organisation a productive and blessed Ramadan season.
May this month inspire resilience and new opportunities for success.
Ramadan Mubarak to you and your entire team.
May this Ramadan strengthen unity and mutual respect in our workplaces.
Wishing you wisdom in leadership and stability in operations this Ramadan.
Ramadan Kareem. May your goals and projects progress smoothly.
To our valued employees, thank you for your commitment. Wishing you a fulfilling Ramadan 2026.
To our business partners, may this Ramadan bring sustainable growth and stronger collaboration.
To fellow HR professionals, wishing you smooth workforce planning throughout Ramadan.
May this month encourage empathy and positive workplace culture.
Wishing you and your loved ones health, prosperity, and continued achievements.
Ramadan Mubarak. May harmony guide your workplace decisions.
May this season of reflection bring long-term success to your organisation.
Wishing our professional community stronger partnerships during Ramadan 2026.

FAQs

When does Ramadan 2026 start in Malaysia?

It is expected to begin on 19 February 2026, subject to official confirmation.

Is the first day of Ramadan a public holiday nationwide?

No. It is a state public holiday in Johor and Kedah.

Are employers required to shorten working hours?

There is no nationwide legal requirement, but flexible arrangements are commonly implemented.

How should HR prepare?

Update internal calendars, anticipate leave clustering, align payroll schedules, and communicate early.

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