To the Buddhists, Vesak is the most sacred festival as it commemorates the Birth, Enlightenment and Death of the Great Teacher, Buddha. Vesak usually falls in the month of April or May and is observed as a public holiday.

Vesak Day celebrations begin before dawn and devotees throng the temples early in the morning to meditate on the Eight Precepts. This is observed by both the young and the old. ‘Sutras’ are chanted by monks in saffron coloured robes.

Buddhist devotees visit various organisations, like orphanages, welfare homes, homes for the aged and charitable institutions to distribute cash donations and gifts to the needy. Free meals are also provided for the underprivileged. Merit is also gained by the release of caged birds.

Many temples serve vegetarian food and hold candle light processions on this auspicious day. Special lectures on the teachings of Buddha are given to keen devotees.

| Hari Raya Puasa | Hari Raya Haji | Prophet Muhammad's Birthday |

| Chinese New Year | Chap Goh Mei | Nine Emperor Gods | Vesak Day |

| Deepavali | Christmas | Easter | Thaiponggal | Thaipusam |

| New Year's Day | Kadazan Harvest | Gawai Dayak |