Malaysia is divided into two main regions: and East Malaysia (Sabah & Sarawak on Borneo) . The monsoon effects differ slightly between these regions.
| Monsoon Season | Period | Main Affected Area | Weather Characteristics | | :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- | | | November – March | East coast of Peninsular Malaysia (Kelantan, Terengganu, Pahang), Sabah, Sarawak | Heavy rainfall, high risk of flooding, rough seas. Best season for the west coast. | | Southwest Monsoon | May – September | West coast of Peninsular Malaysia (Langkawi, Penang, Selangor) | Relatively drier, but some afternoon thunderstorms. Best season for the east coast. | malaysia seasons
Unlike temperate countries which experience four distinct seasons (spring, summer, autumn, winter), Malaysia has a tropical monsoon climate. This means the country is characterized by uniform high temperatures, high humidity, and abundant rainfall throughout the year. Instead of thermal seasons, Malaysia’s climate is defined by two primary monsoon (wind) seasons that influence rainfall patterns: the and the Northeast Monsoon . Malaysia is divided into two main regions: and