Federal Territory Day (Malay: Hari Wilayah Persekutuan) is an annual public holiday observed in the Federal Territories of Malaysia—Kuala Lumpur, Putrajaya, and Labuan—on 1 February. The day commemorates the establishment of these territories as distinct federal jurisdictions under the authority of the Malaysian government.
History
- 1974 – The Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur was created on 1 February 1974 when the area was transferred from the state of Selangor to the federal government under the Federal Territory Act 1974. Later, the islands of Labuan (transferred from Sabah) and the administrative capital Putrajaya (carved out of Selangor) were similarly designated as federal territories.
- 2010 – The Malaysian federal government formally declared 1 February a public holiday in the three Federal Territories, recognizing the date as Federal Territory Day.
Observance
The holiday is marked by official ceremonies, speeches by government officials, and cultural performances that highlight the history and diversity of the territories. Schools, public offices, and many private businesses in Kuala Lumpur, Putrajaya, and Labuan are closed on the day.
Significance
Federal Territory Day serves to acknowledge the political and administrative significance of the territories, which host the national capital (Kuala Lumpur), the seat of government (Putrajaya), and an important offshore financial centre (Labuan). It also promotes a sense of shared identity among residents of the three territories.
Related holidays
- Malaysia’s National Day (Hari Merdeka) – 31 August
- Malaysia’s Yang Di‑Pertuan Agong’s Birthday – first Saturday of June (varies)
References
- Federal Territory Act 1974 (Malaysia)
- Official announcements from the Prime Minister’s Office of Malaysia, 2010
- Ministry of Federal Territories – public holiday calendar (accessed 2024)
