Malaysia experiences a significant amount of rainfall throughout the year, with an average annual rainfall of around 4,000 mm (157 inches). The country has two main monsoon seasons: the Northeast Monsoon (November to March) and the Southwest Monsoon (May to September). The Northeast Monsoon brings heavy rainfall to the eastern coast of Peninsular Malaysia, while the Southwest Monsoon affects the western coast. The inter-monsoon periods, which occur in April-May and September-October, are characterized by lighter rainfall and more sunshine.

The geography of Malaysia plays a significant role in its weather patterns. The country is split into two main landmasses: Peninsular Malaysia and East Malaysia on the island of Borneo. While both areas share a tropical rainforest climate, the timing of their rainy seasons differs. Generally, temperatures across the country hover between 23°C and 32°C. In the highland areas, such as the Genting Highlands or Mount Kinabalu, the air is noticeably crisper and cooler, providing a refreshing escape from the coastal heat.