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Anyone visiting Malaysia for the first time would not cease to be amazed by the number of festivals and events that are happening the whole year around. Malaysia, with its mix of ethnic races which include Malays, descendants of the Bugis and Javanese, Chinese, Indian and others, features a colourful potpourri of cultural traditions. Many of these traditions are expressed through the festivals that take place the whole year round! Chinese New Year A celebration lasting for 15 days beginning from the first day of the Chinese lunar calendar. The Chinese community ushers in the new year with a joyful family reunion dinner, a visit to the temple to seek the blessings of the God of Prosperity and by giving `ang pow` or red packets containing money given by parents to their children or among relatives and well wishers. Thaipusam This day of penance and thanksgiving for Hindus begins with a grand procession of the magnificent silver chariot bearing the statue of Lord Subramaniam, the God of Prosperity. In an atmosphere electric with drumming and chanting, holy water is sprinkled on the deity`s route and thousands of fresh coconuts are smashed, symbolising the washing away of sins. This popular celebration is held at Batu Caves and attended by tens of thousands of people every year. Hari Raya Haji The conclusion of the pilgrimage in Mecca is marked by the Hari Raya Aidil Adha celebrations. Sacrifies of cattle or goats are made by Muslims to commemorate Prophet Abraham`s test of faith by God when he was asked to sacrifice his son. Awal Muharram Maal Hijrah, the first day of the new Islamic calendar year, is celebrated on a moderate scale with gatherings at public halls and mosques where special prayers, sermons and Quranic recitals are held to usher in the Muslim new year. Wesak Day Wesak is celebrated by Buddhists to commemorate the birth, enlightenment and death of Buddha - all three events having taken place on the same lunar date according to Buddhist reckoning. Buddhists observe a vegetarian diet to cleanse themselves prior to the occasion. Deepavali For the Hindus, Deepavali or the Festival of Lights signifies the triumph of good over evil. Celebrated during the 7th month of the Hindu calendar, a traditional oil bath precedes the festivities. The celebration includes visits to temples and prayers at household altars. Hindu homes are adorned with lights or oil lamps to symbolise the victory of Lord Krishna over the demon, Ravana. Sarawak Gawai Festival The end of the padi harvesting season in Sarawak is cause for joyous celebration as the indigenous Ibans and Bodayuhs indulge in much merry-making, traditional dancing and drinking of tuak, a potent rice wine. Sabah Kaamatan Festival Ancient traditions, rites and customs are the order of the day as the indigenous Kadazan-Dusun of Sabah offer thanksgiving for a bountiful harvest. The `Magavau`, a cleansing and blessing ritual performed by the Bobohizan or high priestess will keep you spellbound. Prophet Muhammad`s Birthday The birthday of the Prophet Muhammad or Maulidur Rasul is an important event in the M
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