KUALA LUMPUR, 5 May 2026 – The government has officially confirmed the dates for two major public holidays in 2026: Wesak Day on 31 May and the Yang di-Pertuan Agong’s Birthday on 1 June.

Image Credits: Daily Express

According to a statement by the Ministry of Human Resources, the Agong’s Birthday is a mandatory holiday under the Employment Act 1955 for eligible private sector employees in Peninsular Malaysia and Labuan. This compulsory holiday cannot be replaced or substituted, ensuring workers receive a guaranteed day off.

Image Credits: ST & Partners PLT, Chartered Accountants, Malaysia

Wesak day & Agong’s birthday 2026

On the other hand, Wesak Day is a selectable public holiday, which employees may choose as part of their allotted paid holidays. Importantly, if a public holiday coincides with a rest day—such as Sunday—the following working day is designated as a replacement holiday.

For 2026, Wesak Day falls on Sunday, 31 May. Employers who observe Sunday as a rest day and have employees opting for Wesak Day must schedule:

  • 1 June (Monday) as the Agong’s Birthday (compulsory, non-replaceable)
  • 2 June (Tuesday) as the replacement holiday for Wesak Day, subject to mutual agreement between employer and employee.

The Ministry also reminded that eligible private sector workers earning RM4,000 and below are entitled to public holiday pay if they are required to work on these days, in accordance with the Employment Act.

This announcement provides clarity for both employers and employees, allowing Malaysians to plan their leave and celebrations around these significant dates.

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