Malaysia in December: Weather, Crowds & What to Expect
Climate Map for December
Average temperature across Malaysia in December.
City Weather in December
| City | High | Low | Rain | UV | Feels |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kuala Lumpur | 31° | 23° | 234 mm | very high | Hot |
| Johor Bahru | 29° | 23° | 310 mm | very high | Warm |
| Kampung Baru Subang | 30° | 22° | 251 mm | very high | Warm |
| Petaling Jaya | 31° | 23° | 229 mm | very high | Hot |
| Ipoh | 32° | 23° | 264 mm | very high | Hot |
| Shah Alam | 31° | 23° | 231 mm | very high | Warm |
| Bukit Rahman Putra | 30° | 22° | 258 mm | very high | Warm |
High / low are average daily temperatures (°C). “Feels” reflects how hot or cold it feels, allowing for humidity.
Northern Peninsula (Penang, Langkawi, northern Perak & Kedah)
December tends to have cooler, cloudier mornings with frequent short rain bands moving through; long sunny stretches are less reliable but the winds are usually pleasant. Penang’s festivals around year‑end attract more visitors, so book ahead for hotels and restaurants. Pack layers for air‑conditioned interiors, plus a travel umbrella for sudden showers.
Central Peninsula (Kuala Lumpur, Malacca, Klang Valley & west coast lowlands)
December is warm, slightly stormy and busier with holiday travel; sustained downpours can cause short‑term flooding in low neighbourhoods. Malacca’s night markets and KL’s festive events draw crowds - book restaurants and accommodation early. Pack breathable layers, a compact umbrella and waterproof shoes for walking between attractions.
Cameron Highlands & Titiwangsa Highlands (tea plantations, Genting & mountain trails)
December returns cooler nights and frequent mists with occasional breaks of sunlight; holiday weekends can be busy so book ahead if visiting. Evenings are noticeably chilly for Malaysia, so a warm sweater and closed shoes are welcome after a day of exploring tea gardens and moss forests. Rain remains possible, so waterproof protection is still advised.
East Coast Peninsula (Terengganu, Kelantan, Pahang shores - Perhentian, Redang, Tioman)
December stays stormy and wet with strong winds and large swells; island trips are generally not recommended and many dive centres suspend operations. The coastline is dramatic in this season, with powerful surf and swollen rivers, but sea access is limited. Travellers should prioritize inland cultural sites, stay informed about weather warnings, and carry waterproof luggage covers.
Southern Peninsula (Johor, Desaru, Iskandar Puteri & Taman Negara approaches)
December stays wet and breezy with regular heavy showers and rougher coastal seas; island and beach plans may require contingency. Boat crossings can be delayed by weather, so allow extra time for onward journeys and check sea advisories. Warm, waterproof clothing and flexible bookings keep holiday travel less stressful.
Sabah (Kota Kinabalu coast, Kinabalu Park, Sandakan & interior wildlife)
December stays within the northeast monsoon period with regular heavy showers across much of Sabah and choppier sea conditions; some island operations close temporarily. Mountain areas remain cool and wet, and flights to remote airstrips can be delayed by weather. Prioritize indoor or sheltered wildlife activities, and carry sufficient dry bags and protective gear for electronics.
Sarawak (Kuching, Miri, Bako, Mulu & the interior rainforests)
December remains very wet with heavy rainfall and strong river currents - national parks and remote trails can be closed at short notice. Kuching stays accessible for city‑based activities and food trails, but expect damp conditions and occasional transportation delays. Carry dry bags, check current river conditions before booking cruises, and favor indoor alternatives during sustained wet spells.