Malaysia in August - A Guide to Weather, Best Places, and Activities

August in Malaysia offers travelers a mix of sunny days and refreshing rains, making it an exciting month for beach lovers, nature enthusiasts, and culture seekers alike. While the weather in Malaysia in August varies between regions, the east coast(Redang, Tioman, Perhentian Islands) enjoys drier, sunnier days with clear skies, while the west coast(Kuala Lumpur, Penang, Langkawi) experiences occasional short bursts of rain due to the southwest monsoon. Despite the seasonal changes, Malaysia in August is an attractive destination, with diverse activities and fewer crowds in some regions.

Weather in Malaysia in August

The temperature in Malaysia in August generally ranges from 22°C to 33°C everywhere, with humidity averaging around 80%. In the east, conditions are ideal for beach activities and island hopping, while the west coast is often hot and humid, with brief, heavy rains. Despite the rain on the west coast, sunny periods are frequent, making it a great time for outdoor sightseeing.

• East Coast (e.g., Redang, Tioman, Perhentian Islands): Dry, sunny, and perfect for water sports like snorkeling and diving.
• West Coast (e.g., Kuala Lumpur, Penang, Langkawi): More rain, especially in the afternoons, but generally warm with temperatures around 32°C.
• Borneo (e.g., Sabah, Sarawak): Minimal rainfall and less humidity, making it ideal for wildlife safaris and exploring rainforests.  

Why Visit Malaysia in August?

Drier Conditions on the East Coast: With little rain and perfect sea conditions, August is prime time for beach relaxation, water sports, and island hopping. Tourists flock to destinations like the Tioman and Perhentian Islands for their picturesque beaches and diverse marine life.
Wildlife Adventures in Borneo: For a unique experience, Borneo’s dry season offers excellent conditions for spotting orangutans, pygmy elephants, and other exotic species in their natural habitats. Tours along the Kinabatangan River are popular for viewing these incredible animals.
Independence Day Celebrations: August 31st marks Malaysia’s Independence Day, or Merdeka Day, with parades, cultural performances, and fireworks across the country, especially in Kuala Lumpur. The entire month sees smaller celebrations building up to this national holiday.

Things to Do in Malaysia in August

1. Island Hopping and Beach Relaxation

The east coast islands like Redang and Tioman are at their best in August, with clear waters perfect for snorkeling, diving, and leisurely swims. Clear visibility lets you witness vibrant coral reefs, colorful fish, and even sea turtles and reef sharks up close. Sipadan Island, renowned as one of the world’s best diving spots, is ideal for exploring rich marine life.

2. Go Orangutan Spotting

Visiting Sabah and Sarawak in August offers a rare chance to see orangutans in the wild. The Kinabatangan River Safari in Sabah allows you to witness these intelligent primates in their natural habitat, along with pygmy elephants, proboscis monkeys, and hornbills. Visit Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, which is home to rescued and orphaned orangutans.

3. Trekking Mount Kinabalu

As Malaysia’s tallest peak, Mount Kinabalu offers breathtaking views and a sense of accomplishment for those who reach the summit. The climb usually takes two days, with hikers spending a night at a mid-station lodge before the final ascent to witness the sunrise. August’s dry conditions in this region provide a better chance of reaching the summit with clearer views of the surrounding landscape.

4. Bird Watching at Temenggor Lake

August is the best time to see thousands of hornbills, Southeast Asia’s iconic bird. Temenggor Lake cruises allow visitors to witness these colorful birds in flight, often filling the skies with their distinct horn-like calls. Serious birdwatchers can join specialized tours focusing on spotting and photographing Malaysia’s tropical bird species, including the rhinoceros hornbill and the rare helmeted hornbill.

5. Visit the Danum Valley Conservation Area

Located in Sabah, the Danum Valley Conservation Area, is a lowland undisturbed forest spread over 438 square kilometres of land. This tropical wonderland boasts of being home to a wide variety of reptiles, mammals, birds, and amphibians and also hosts several adventurous activities for all nature lovers and activity enthusiasts out there. River swimming, bird watching, jungle trekking, and night jungle walks are some of the many activities you can enjoy in Malaysia in August. Weather in this rainforest during this month is typically Bornean, which means that you will enjoy plenty of sunshine with a few rainy days here and there; making it the perfect time to go trekking and wildlife exploring.

6. Check-out Sunway Lagoon Theme Park

Those who wish to escape from the 32°C warmth in Malaysia in August can get some respite from the summer heat at the Sunway Lagoon Theme Park, which is an excellent place to visit. This water-cum-amusement park is located just 15 kilometers to the southwest of the city center, making it easily accessible for all. It features several rides and attractions that are sure to be loved by kids and adults alike. The theme park is divided into five different parks, including the Water Park, Scream Park, Extreme Park, Wildlife Park, and Amusement Park. The most loved attractions here include the 360° revolving pirate ship and the wave pool.

Events in August in Malaysia

8. Hari Merdeka

Hari Merdeka, or the Malaysian Independence Day, is celebrated on August 31. This much-awaited event is complete with parades, processions, flag-waving, and fireworks. August is a colorful time in Malaysia, and tourists also get to enjoy the sights of the different processions with people dressed in their ethnic wear to represent their backgrounds and cultures. Though the majority of these festivities take place in Kuala Lumpur, celebrations take place throughout the country, so you will be able to feel the vibe and joy no matter where you are. Additionally, many sporting events are also arranged, and stores put up a lot of sales.

9. Mooncake Festival and Hungry Ghost Festival 

Also known as the Mid Autumn Festival or the Lantern Festival, the Mooncake Festival is usually celebrated in August or September to thank the moon goddess for a generous harvest. Delicious mooncakes and colorful lanterns are the centers of attraction during this festivity, and they are also important symbols of unity within the community. Just before the Mooncake Festival, the Hungry Ghost Festival is also celebrated in Malaysia in August. During this time, people try to please the spirits of the dead by offering them food and hosting puppet shows and other performances. Celebrated all across the country, the Mooncake Festival and Hungry Ghost Festival are definitely two of the most flamboyant events that take place in the country.

Tips While Travelling to Malaysia in August

• Famous tourist attractions hit their peak during the summer season, and therefore accommodations fill to their capacity and even much more expensive. No exaggerating, travellers to Perhentian Kecil once actually had to sleep on the beach while waiting for their rooms to free up. It is thus highly recommended that you make your reservations well in advance.
• Even if you are visiting the east coast, do not expect to have a completely dry visit to Malaysia. Rain can pour in anytime, unexpected; and even the driest of months witness up to 11 days of rain. Thus, be well prepared and make sure that you carry raincoats and umbrellas along. 
• Since you will be spending a lot of time at the beach indulging in water sports, you must pack all beach necessities along, especially plenty of sunscreen. 
• It is also a good idea to carry along water shoes since they will come in really handy when exploring beaches, especially those with dead coral. 

Malaysia in August offers a unique blend of experiences, from idyllic beaches and underwater activities on the east coast to thrilling wildlife adventures in Borneo. Although the west coast experiences more rainfall, the showers are brief, allowing for plenty of sightseeing opportunities. August is also a month of celebration in Malaysia, with Independence Day events adding cultural richness to the experience. With careful planning and packing, travelers can enjoy the best of Malaysia weather in August and make the most of this tropical paradise.