Cover image via 
Follow us on Instagram, TikTok, and WhatsApp for the latest stories and breaking news.
Malaysia's school year will officially return to a January start in 2026, marking a full transition back to pre-pandemic schedules
In a statement today, 28 October, the Ministry of Education (MOE) announced that the 2026 Academic Calendar for national and government-aided schools will run from 11 January to 31 December 2026 for Group A states, and 12 January to 31 December 2026 for Group B states.
Here are the states:
– Group A: Kedah, Kelantan, and Terengganu
– Group B: Johor, Melaka, Negeri Sembilan, Pahang, Perak, Perlis, Penang, Sabah, Sarawak, Selangor, and the Federal Territories
Image for illustration purposes only.
Image via New Straits TimesThe ministry said the successful return of the school session to the January start date has been carried out gradually and systematically, without disrupting the operation of educational institutions
"This effort underscores the MOE's determination to prioritise the wellbeing of students, teachers, and the entire school community," it said.
The 2026 Academic Calendar has also been aligned with major festive celebrations, including Hari Raya Aidilfitri, Chinese New Year, Deepavali, the Kaamatan Festival, Hari Gawai Dayak, and Christmas.
Malaysia's school year was shifted to March in 2022 after adjustments made in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The 2026 Academic Calendar can be found here.
