The days can be hot and humid, while the evening tends to be cooler. On average, the daytime temperatures are recorded to be at about 30 °C or 86 °F. When the sun sets the average evening temperature goes no lower than 20 °C or 68 °F. The coastal areas tend to have warmer temperatures at about 28 °C or about 82 °F, while further inland, the temperature drops down slightly to 26 °C or nearly 79 °F. Up on the mountains the temperatures average about 23 °C / 73 °F.

Malaysia experiences two seasons: a dry season and a wet monsoon season. The summer season is between the months of June to September. However, various areas or islands of Malaysia may have slight differences in climate and temperature.

There are some instances when typhoons hit the country, even in the months of July to November. Annual southwest monsoons hit the country from April to October, while northeast monsoons are felt between October and February. The wet monsoon season falls on the months of December to March. This brings in a lot of rainfall and precipitation to the country.

Malaysia is located right along the equator, which gives it a hot climate. Fortunately, the bodies of water that surround the country provide a slightly cooling breeze to the country. The best time to visit Malaysia is during the dry season, which varies depending on where you are going. Taking note of the weather and prevailing temperatures in the places you will be going will make it less likely for you to encounter rain while sight seeing, going to the beach or enjoying the outdoors.

Travelers going to the eastern part of Malaysia, such as Bintulu, Kota Kinabalu, Kudat, Sandakan, Labuan and Tawau are advised to travel in June or July. Here, the average rainfall is recorded at 120 inches annually. Rains are heaviest during the months of November to February.

Those going to the western portion of Malaysia such as Ipoh, Kangkawi, Malacca, Johor Bahru, Kota Bahru, Sepang (where Kuala Lumpur is) should best go between January and February. The heaviest rainfall occurs in the month of August here.

April is the best month to go for travelers wanting to visit Sabah, while those going to Sarawak will find June and July most ideal.

Travelers should be aware that flooding could happen in some parts of Malaysia, especially during the typhoon season. You should always stay abreast of any weather and travel advisories to avoid any complications during the trip.

Travelers going to Malaysia should be prepared to experience a hot humid climate. It’s best to pack along lightweight clothing in natural fabrics such as cotton and linens. There’s no need to pack any winter gear, such as heavy coats, wool sweaters or even knitted scarves and mittens.

Travelers should keep in mind that as a conservative country, conservative clothing is preferred. Women should wear articles of clothing that cover bare arms and legs, especially when going sightseeing, visiting various temples and other religious sites. This means sleeveless shirts and blouses, shorts and short skirts are not advisable when going sightseeing. Many women travelers find that bringing a lightweight pashminas (large scarf) is a versatile item to bring since it can be used as a fashion accessory, while at the same time helps cover up bare arms and shoulders, or it can be used as a cover for the head. Men can wear a cap or hat, although these must be removed when going inside restaurants and places of worship. Shorts are acceptable when going to the beach.

Carrying a raincoat or a small umbrella may also prove useful any time of the year, since there are occasional bursts of rain showers. Packing a lightweight waterproof jacket is advisable any time of the year. At the same time, pack along a tube of sunscreen to protect the skin against the damaging rays of the sun.

The consistent weather in Malaysia is one of the reasons that make the country an attractive destination for many travelers. If you are looking to escape the cold winter climates of other countries you will find a nice warm haven in Malaysia.

Before traveling to Malaysia, be informed of the weather updates so you can be advised on the type of climate you can expect during your trip. Knowing the climate in Malaysia as well as the specific temperatures in Malaysia will help you determine the best items to pack and plan the best itinerary so you can enjoy your trip to this exotic Asian paradise that is Malaysia.