In case you’re not aware, Federal Territory Day and Thaipusam will fall on the same day next year: 1 February 2026 (Sunday).
As such, in view of Federal Territory Day, Monday (2 February 2026) will automatically be a replacement public holiday (for those working in the Federal Territory).
For illustration purposes only
However, since Thaipusam also falls on the same Sunday, the question many Malaysians have been asking: Do we get Tuesday (3 February 2026) off too, or not?
Long weekend ahead???
The answer lies in the Employment Act 1955, Section 60 (D) (1) (b), which states,
“The working day following immediately the rest day or the other public holiday shall be a paid holiday in substitution.”
The same section of the Employment Act 1955 also mentions that every employee shall be entitled to a paid holiday at his ordinary rate of pay on the following days in any one calendar year.
Basically, if a public holiday falls on a “rest day” (i.e. Sunday), then the “working day following immediately” becomes a paid substitute holiday. This means that Monday (2 February 2026) will be a substitute holiday for Federal Territory Day, and Tuesday (3 February 2026) will be a substitute holiday for Thaipusam.
Essentially, if you work in the Federal Territory (and Sunday is a rest day for your workplace), work will only resume on Wednesday (4 February 2026), which means you’ll get to enjoy a 4-day weekend!
However, keep in mind that Federal Territory Day only applies to those who work in Kuala Lumpur, Labuan, and Putrajaya.
Not working in the Federal Territory? You can still observe the Thaipusam holiday (maybe)!
For illustration purposes only
Don’t fret if you don’t work in the Federal Territory, because you might still be able to observe the Thaipusam holiday if you work in these states, which observe Thaipusam as a public holiday:
- Johor
- Kedah
- Kuala Lumpur
- Negeri Sembilan
- Penang
- Perak
- Putrajaya & Selangor
If you do work in any of these states, you’ll get to enjoy a 3-day weekend, with Monday (2 February 2026) being the substitute holiday for Thaipusam!
Maximise your leaves
If you’re eligible for the long weekend, it’s a great chance to make the most of your annual leave by taking an extra day or two before or after it—perfect for a short getaway. With the possibility of a price hike in hotels and homestays during the holiday season, it’s best to plan your trip early!
Have you planned your trip for February 2026?
Also read: M’sian Tells Wife He’s Going to KL for ‘Meeting’ But Actually Went to Hatyai, Gets Stranded by Flood
