November is considered a perfect time to visit the West Coast of Malaysia as the monsoon system fades away. Beach holidays to Langkawi and Penang are popular at this time of year, with long hours of sunshine and little rain expected.

By contrast the East Coast of Malaysia is in the grip of the Northeast monsoon at this time of year, which can be characterized by heavy rain, which although often concentrated in dramatic thunderstorms can also sometimes be more persistent. Many East Coast Malaysia resorts close between November and January.

November sees the northern coast of Sabah affected by the Northeast monsoon, which typically brings a sudden heavy downpour late in the afternoon every other day or so.

Sarawak also comes under the influence of the monsoon and late afternoon showers can be expected in Kuching, along the coastal area around the Bako National Park and throughout the interior of Sarawak.