Climate in Malaysia

Overview

Malaysia is predominantly tropical, humid, and hot. There are no extreme variations in temperature, and generally, the days are warm, while the nights are relatively cool (relatively). However, there is considerable difference in Malaysia’s climate as you go from coast to coast or island to island. 

The Borneo side of Malaysia (which includes Sabah and Sarawak) receives heavy rainfall during the monsoon season, which begins in November and continues through March.  Heavy winds bring torrential rainfall to the coastal areas making them undesirable for a medical tourism holiday. Not only is it too damp to go out much, but the rising monsoon tides bring choppy waves, making water sports and activities a complete no-no. In fact, many of the resorts in this region choose to close down all together during the monsoon season. 

The mainland, on the other hand, manages to avoid the brunt of monsoon season.  However, you can expect heavy rainfall in the late spring and early fall. 

Best Time to Visit

There are two peak holiday seasons in the country. The first one starts in December and continues through the end of January, covering Christmas, the New Year, and in some years, the Chinese New Year as well. Hotels are filled to capacity, and you’ll find it harder to find a good deal on accommodations on your medical tourism vacation. The second peak holiday season begins in the middle of May and continues through the end of August. You’ll find many Singaporean and Middle Eastern vacationers flocking to Malaysia’s numerous seaside resorts during this time.  If you want a quiet medical tourism experience, consider avoiding these 2 holiday seasons.