The government has agreed to grant an additional public holiday in conjunction with this year’s Aidilfitri celebration as a gesture of appreciation for Malaysians who have worked hard throughout the month of Ramadan, said Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim.
He said the date for the additional holiday will depend on the official declaration of 1 Syawal.
According to Anwar, if Aidilfitri falls on Friday, March 20, the government will designate Monday, March 23, as the additional public holiday.
“However, if Hari Raya falls on Saturday, March 21, then the extra holiday will be on Friday, March 20,” he said while officiating the National Consumer Day 2026 event.
Among those present at the event were Hajiji Noor, Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Minister Armizan Mohd Ali, and his deputy Fuziah Salleh.
Anwar said the early announcement of the additional holiday was intended to help Malaysians nationwide make travel arrangements in advance for the festive period.
“We are granting this Aidilfitri holiday because Malaysians have worked hard throughout Ramadan. Celebrate Aidilfitri joyfully with your loved ones,” he said.
Festive Price Control Scheme For 15 Days
The Prime Minister also announced that the Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living will implement the Festive Season Maximum Price Scheme (SHMMP) for Hari Raya Aidilfitri 2026 for a period of 15 days starting March 14.
The scheme will cover seven days before and seven days after the celebration to ensure price stability for essential goods.
Anwar said the ministry has identified controlled items according to location, involving 24 items in Peninsular Malaysia, 23 items in Sabah and Sarawak, and 22 items in the Federal Territory of Labuan.
He also acknowledged a slight price challenge involving red chillies due to supply disruptions caused by severe flooding in Thailand, one of the exporting countries.
As a temporary measure, he advised consumers to consider using dried chillies as an alternative while the ministry finalises the list of controlled goods.
