Songkran 2026 In Malaysia Emphasises Mindful Celebration, Stronger Thai-Malaysian Relations

By Nur Atiq Maisarah Suhaimi

PETALING JAYA, April 10 (Bernama) -- Malaysia’s Premier Songkran Festival 2026 offers a platform to strengthen long-standing people-to-people and cultural ties between Malaysia and Thailand as both countries mark the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations in 2027.

Thailand’s Ambassador to Malaysia Lada Phumas said the 11-day festival, held from April 9 to 19, also serves as a vibrant showcase of Thailand’s tourism and creative economy, reflecting its broader push to position itself as a key strategic player on the global stage.

“While we are bringing the spirit of Songkran and authentic Thai offerings to Malaysia, I would also like to invite our Malaysian and international friends to experience Songkran traditions in Thailand.

“Let us use this festival to strengthen the people-to-people and cultural ties that have bound us for decades, as we join hands on our journey towards the 70th anniversary of Thailand-Malaysia diplomatic relations next year,” she said at the official launch of the festival on Friday.

Also present were Digital Minister and Damansara Member of Parliament Gobind Singh Deo, ambassadors and high commissioners accredited to Malaysia, as well as members of the ASEAN Ladies’ Circle.

Songkran, Thailand’s traditional New Year festival, is celebrated annually from April 13 to 15, marking the start of the Thai New Year.

“Songkran in Thailand” was inscribed on UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2023.

Lada said this year’s festival emphasises experiencing Songkran in a more meaningful and sustainable way.

“We aim to balance our legendary ‘sanuk’, the Thai word for fun, with sustainability and responsibility. From water-splashing festivities to traditions such as pouring water on elders and traditional Songkran dances, a vibrant showcase of Thai music and performances awaits visitors.

“As Songkran symbolises renewal and family unity, we hope the celebration,  especially amid current global challenges, will embrace mindful practices, from the responsible use of water to energy conservation, ensuring that our traditions are preserved for future generations,” she said.

She said the Royal Thai Embassy has been actively enhancing bilateral cooperation through cultural programmes, economic forums and strategic dialogues, while advancing initiatives to support trade, tourism and people-to-people connectivity.

Malaysia’s Premier Songkran Festival 2026 at 1 Utama Shopping Centre is one of the key cultural events that has drawn tens of thousands of visitors annually since its inception, now entering its fourth consecutive year. 

This year, organisers are projecting a turnout of more than 80,000 visitors, reinforcing its position as a major regional attraction.

The festival also offers a Thai street market featuring 50 curated booths, including more than 40 authentic Thai food vendors, alongside desserts, beverages, fashion and lifestyle products, as well as carnival attractions.

Festival-goers can indulge in popular Thai favourites such as Pad Thai, tomyam, som tam, mango sticky rice and Thai iced tea, offering an immersive street food experience reminiscent of Bangkok’s vibrant night markets.

-- BERNAMA