As the chilling winds of October sweep across the vibrant cities in Malaysia, residents and visitors prepare for the spookiest and most enchanting night of the year. This annual celebration of all things eerie and supernatural has gained immense popularity, transforming the bustling city into a realm of ghoulish delight and surprises. Halloween in Malaysia has evolved into a mesmerising blend of tradition and innovation, offering various events to suit every taste.
From a thrilling array of haunted parties, easy makeup inspirations, creative costumes, and ghostly fun, here is where you can find inspirations to prepare for Halloween. The anticipation is palpable as this year’s Halloween promises to be a fusion of Malaysian culture and global Halloween traditions, making it a unique and unforgettable experience for all who dare to partake.
When Is Halloween 2023 in Malaysia?
Halloween in 2023 falls on Tuesday, 31st October, as Halloween is celebrated on the same date worldwide, including in Malaysia. It is a day when Malaysians and visitors in the country partake in various spooky and festive activities, such as costume parties, trick-or-treating, and Halloween-themed events.
How Did Halloween Get Its Name?
According to Country Living, the English name for Halloween we use now originates in medieval Christianity. It stems from the word “hallow,” which is derived from Middle and Old English terms signifying “holy” and, as a noun, can refer to a “saint.”
During that era, the Christian holiday now recognised as All Saints’ Day was referred to as All Hallows’ Day, and the evening preceding it, when a special mass was conducted, was known as All Hallows’ Eve. Over time, this name was contracted to become Halloween.
What Is the Brief History of Halloween?
Based on the History Channel, Halloween’s tradition is rooted in the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain, where people lit bonfires and donned costumes to ward off ghosts. In the eighth century, Pope Gregory III established November 1 as a day to honour all saints, and gradually, All Saints Day assimilated some of the customs of Samhain. The night preceding it came to be known as All Hallows Eve, which later morphed into Halloween.
With time, Halloween evolved into a day filled with activities like trick-or-treating, the carving of jack-o’-lanterns, festive gatherings, costume-wearing, and indulging in delectable treats. This transformation of Halloween reflects its journey from its ancient Celtic and Christian origins to the contemporary celebration that combines cultural elements, making it a day of reverence and revelry.
What Are the Popular Halloween Costumes in Malaysia?
In recent years, Halloween has gained some popularity in Malaysia, especially among younger generations and in urban areas. As a result, you might find people wearing various costumes during Halloween-themed parties or events.
Here are some popular Halloween costume ideas in Malaysia:
- Classic Monsters
Characters like vampires, zombies, werewolves, and mummies are popular choices. These timeless monsters are easily recognisable and fun to dress up as. - Witches and Wizards
Witch and wizard costumes are common, inspired by popular fantasy franchises like Harry Potter. You will see people with wizard hats, broomsticks, and magic wands. - Superheroes and Villains
Dressing up as your favourite superheroes or supervillains from movies and comic books is a trend that transcends borders. Characters like Spider-Man, Batman, Wonder Woman, and the Joker are popular choices. - Ghostly Spirits
Ghost costumes are simple yet effective. A white sheet with cut-out eye holes can transform anyone into a spooky spirit. It’s an easy and cost-effective option. - Pop Culture Icons
People often dress up as celebrities, movie characters, or pop culture icons. This can include figures from Malaysian and international entertainment, such as popular K-drama characters or local celebrities.
Read here to find inspiration for the Halloween costume to win the “Best Dressed” award:
What Are Some Popular Halloween Makeup Ideas to Consider in Malaysia?
While Halloween makeup trends in Malaysia may not be as prevalent as in some Western countries, you can still find people experimenting with various makeup looks during Halloween-themed events.
Check out these common Halloween makeup themes in Malaysia:
- Horror and Gore
Many Malaysians opt for classic horror makeup, such as zombie or vampire looks. This can include pale skin, fake blood, wounds, and realistic scars to create a spooky and gory appearance. - Day of the Dead
Inspired by Mexican traditions, the Day of the Dead makeup involves colourful skull designs, often featuring intricate floral patterns and bright colours. It is a visually striking and artistic choice. - Fantasy Creatures
Some Malaysians enjoy transforming into fantasy creatures like fairies, elves, or mythical creatures like unicorns. This type of makeup typically involves vibrant and imaginative colours. - Pop Culture Characters
Dressing up as characters from popular movies, TV shows, or video games is a trend that transcends borders. You might see Malaysians emulating characters from their favourite franchises with makeup. - Witch and Wizard Looks
Witches and wizards are common choices for Halloween makeup. This can include dark and mysterious makeup and accessories like pointy hats and capes.
How to Do Easy Costume or Make-Up Without Spending Much?
Creating an easy and budget-friendly makeup or costume for Halloween or any other event can be a fun and creative endeavour. Here are some tips for achieving a great look without breaking the bank:
For Costumes:
- Thrifting
Visit thrift stores, consignment shops, or second-hand clothing stores. You can often find affordable items that can be repurposed for your costume. - DIY Costumes and Accessories
Get creative and make your costume using items you already have or can find inexpensively. Use basic materials like cardboard, felt, or fabric to make your costume accessories, such as hats, masks, or capes. - Borrow from Friends
Ask your friends and family if they have any costume items or accessories you can borrow. Many people have costume items from previous years. - Repurpose Old Clothing
Look through your wardrobe for clothing that can be used to create a costume. An old suit, dress, or oversized t-shirt can be transformed with some creativity. - Simple Themes
Choose costume ideas that don’t require elaborate or expensive pieces. For example, you can be a “nerd” with taped-together glasses and suspenders or a “hippie” with tie-dye and flower accessories.
For Makeup:
- Use What You Have
Raid your makeup collection for colours and products that work for your costume. Bold eyeshadows, eyeliner, and lipstick can transform your look. - DIY Face Paint
You can make your face paint at home using a mixture of cornstarch, cold cream, and food colouring. There are many online tutorials for this. - Simple Face Masks
If you need a mask-like effect, you can use items like pantyhose or old stockings to create a mask that covers your face and can be decorated as needed. - Online Tutorials
Countless makeup tutorials are available on YouTube and social media platforms. Search for tutorials related to your costume idea to get step-by-step instructions. - Temporary Tattoos and Stickers
Temporary tattoos, stick-on gems, and stickers can add a unique touch to your makeup without much effort or cost.
What Are the Events You Can Join on Halloween 2023 in Malaysia?
There are many Halloween events to elevate the festive season, offering various entertainment and opportunities for celebration. Whether you want to immerse yourself in traditional cultural festivities, explore haunted houses, or simply indulge in delectable treats, these events provide a diverse and exciting array of options to make the most of the festive season.
Here is a list of the events you can join:
For Adults:
1. Junji Ito Horror House @ Lalaport KL
Explore the chilling realm of Japanese horror manga master, Junji Ito this Halloween at the Junji Ito Horror House. This exhibition offers a glimpse into the eerie worlds featured in his acclaimed Netflix series, such as “Junji Ito Maniac: Japanese Tales Of The Macabre” and “Uzumaki: Spiral Into Horror”.
Event Period: 28th September 2023 – 30th November 2023
Operating Hours: 12:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Address: 2, Jalan Hang Tuah, Bukit Bintang, 55100 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
2. Nights of Fright 9 @ Sunway Lagoon
Confront your fear this Halloween as Sunway Lagoon’s Nights of Fright makes its bone-chilling comeback for the 9th edition! Dive into a sinister atmosphere featuring 8 hair-raisingly spooky haunted houses, a menacing haunted theater, 2 bone-chilling scare zones, 11 heart-pounding rides, 2 captivating stage performances, and a range of added thrills!
Event Period: 29th September 2023 – 31st November 2023
Operating Hours: 7:30 pm – 11:30 pm
Address: 3, Jalan PJS 11/11, Bandar Sunway, 47500 Subang Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia
3. Halloween “Spooky” Market @ Tiffin At The Yard
Calling out all thrill-seekers in search of a scream-inducing weekend! You can anticipate an eerie assortment of clothing, crafts, carefully selected secondhand items, and many more delights this weekend. Amidst these spine-chilling attractions, those who don their most haunting costumes can also enjoy trick-or-treating with the food vendors.
Event Period: 28th – 29th October 2023
Operating Hours: 12:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Address: PT189-PT183-PT185 Jalan Strachan, Off, Jalan Ipoh, Sentul, 51100 Kuala Lumpur, Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur
For Kids:
1. Halloween Monster Party @ LEGOLAND
Prepare for an extraordinary monster invasion at LEGOLAND Malaysia Resort! The Halloween Monster Party this year guarantees even more spine-chilluing fun. Delight in a mix of fresh and classic live shows, immerse yourself in spook-tacular LEGO decorations, and join in epic costume competitions. The best news? Kids in Halloween attire can enter for free!
Event Period: 29th September 2023 – 5th November 2023
Address: 7, Persiaran Medini Utara 3, 79100 Iskandar Puteri, Johor
2. Halloween Fun Run @ Sunway Putra Mall
Join this thrilling run, and you will earn a finisher medal and a delightfully spooky Halloween event T-shirt. There is also a spooky station, face painting, a lucky draw, carnival games, a variety of food trucks, and a whole lot more to keep you and your kids entertained! Don’t let the opportunity for both fun and fitness pass you by.
Event Day: 28th October 2023
Event Time: 8:00 pm
Address: 100, Jalan Putra, Chow Kit, 50350 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
3. The Ee-Boo! Halloween Party @ KL Gateway Mall
The Ee-Boo! Halloween Party features an exciting Scavenger Hunt Trick O Treat, allowing kids to search for treats and uncover spooky surprises. You also can get messy at the Monster Mash activity and try crafts at the Carve & Crafts Corner. Personalise your cupcakes at the Cupcake Decoration booth, and check out the Kid’s Beastly Bazaar for unique Halloween goodies.
Event Day: 28th October 2023
Event Time: 1:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Address: 2, Jalan Kerinchi, Kampung Kerinchi, 59200 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur
Check out more Halloween events for some spine-tingling adventures with your friends:
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Disclosure: This list was compiled by the team at My Weekend Plan after extensive research and shared opinions to suggest helpful recommendations for the public. The sequence of brands is in no particular order so if you have any other great suggestions too, please email us support@myweekendplan.asia. For more information, kindly refer to our copyright, privacy & disclosure policy.
