The Islamic New Year, also known as Hijri New Year or Awal Muharram, marks the beginning of the Islamic lunar calendar. This day holds significant spiritual and historical importance for Muslims, serving as a time for reflection, renewal of faith and commemoration of Islamic history.

Table of Contents

1. When is Islamic New Year?
2. The History of Islamic New Year
3. What Do People Do on This Day?
4. Months in the Islamic Calendar?

When is Islamic New Year?

The Islamic New Year is observed on the first day of Muharram, the first month in the Islamic lunar calendar.

The following is the list of the Islamic New Year from 2020 to 2049.

The History of Islamic New Year

The Islamic New Year in Malaysia has significant religious and cultural importance, reflecting the country's strong Islamic heritage. Its observance commemorates the Hijrah (migration) of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and his followers from Mecca to Medina in 622 CE, a pivotal moment in Islamic history.

Islam arrived in the Malay Peninsula around the 12th century, primarily through Arab and Indian Muslim traders. By the 15th century, Islam became the dominant religion under the influence of the Malacca Sultanate.

Islamic practices, including the observance of the Islamic New Year, were incorporated into Malay culture, blending with local customs.

The Islamic calendar was introduced in Malaysia as part of the religious practices brought by Islamic scholars and traders. The calendar begins from the year 622 CE, marking the Hijrah, when Prophet Muhammad and his followers migrated to escape persecution and establish the first Islamic state in Medina.

During British rule, Islamic traditions were preserved within the Malay states, and the Islamic New Year remained a religious observance.

After Malaysia gained independence in 1957, the government officially recognized the Islamic New Year as a public holiday, reflecting the country's identity as an Islamic-majority nation.
The Islamic New Year emphasizes the significance of migration (Hijrah) and the beginning of a new chapter.

How Many Months in The Islamic calendar?

On this day, Malaysians observe the Islamic New Year with religious devotion, reflection and community activities.

Muslims gather at mosques to perform special prayers, seeking blessings for the new year and reflecting on their spiritual journey. Chapters from the Quran, particularly those emphasizing patience and faith are recited during religious gatherings.

Religious leaders deliver talks about the significance of the Hijrah, focusing on themes of resilience and the importance of faith.

Government-organized ceremonies are a key feature of Maal Hijrah in Malaysia, often attended by leaders, religious scholars, and community representatives.

Each year, a specific theme is chosen to inspire Malaysians, focusing on values such as unity or moral excellence.

Many mosques and Islamic organizations organize charity drives, distribute meals or provide aid to underprivileged communities.

Muslims take this opportunity to assess their actions over the past year and set goals for self-improvement, spiritual growth, and better adherence to Islamic principles.

Schools, universities and community centers host programs to educate younger generations about the history and significance of the Hijrah.

As Islamic New Year is a public holiday in Malaysia, so many people use the day to rest, spend time with family, and engage in personal worship.

Months in the Islamic Calendar?

The Islamic calendar, also known as the Hijri calendar, is a lunar calendar consisting of 12 months based on the cycles of the moon. Each month begins with the sighting of the new crescent moon.

1. Muharram: One of the four sacred months in Islam, where fighting is prohibited. Ashura is on the 10th of Muharram.
2. Safar: Historically, some believed this month to bring misfortune, though this is not supported in Islam.
3. Rabi' al-Awwal: Significant for the birth of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), observed as Mawlid al-Nabi on 12th.
4. Rabi' al-Thani or Rabi' al-Akhir: Often used for reflection and continuing spiritual growth.
5. Jumada al-Awwal: A time for normal daily worship and acts of kindness.
6. Jumada al-Thani or Jumada al-Akhir: Continues the cycle of spiritual and communal life.
7. Rajab: Another sacred month, during which warfare is prohibited. Significant for the Isra and Mi'raj.
8. Sha'ban: Preparatory month for Ramadan, often observed with increased fasting and worship.
9. Ramadan: The holiest in Islam. Month of fasting, prayer and increased devotion. Laylat al-Qadr (Night of Decree) is in this month.
10. Shawwal: Beginning with Eid al-Fitr, the festival marking the end of Ramadan.
11. Dhu al-Qi'dah: One of the sacred months. A time of peace and preparation for the Hajj pilgrimage.
12. Dhu al-Hijjah: The twelfth month, which includes the Hajj pilgrimage. Eid al-Adha (Festival of Sacrifice) on the 10th day.