What is the name of the Hindu festival of lights in Malaysia?

The Hindu festival of lights in Malaysia is called Hari Deepavali. It is also commonly shortened to Deepavali, the name used in everyday conversation and official holiday listings.

Deepavali comes from Sanskrit words meaning “a row of lights,” referring to the lamps traditionally lit during the celebration. Malaysian Hindu families commonly clean and decorate their homes, create colorful kolam designs at entrances, visit temples, pray, exchange greetings, and welcome guests. An early-morning oil bath is also a familiar Malaysian Deepavali custom.

The festival symbolizes the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil, although the particular story emphasized can vary by Hindu tradition. In Malaysia, Deepavali is a major public holiday in most states, but it is not observed as a federal holiday in Sarawak. It is distinct from Thaipusam, which honors Lord Murugan, and Hari Raya, which refers to Muslim celebrations rather than this Hindu festival.