Kuala Lumpur vs Penang

Kuala Lumpur and Penang are closely matched in May. Neither city has a clear advantage across all metrics. Your decision should come down to personal preference, cultural interests, and travel logistics rather than weather alone.

Kuala Lumpur can feel quite hot at 30°C, so plan for heat. Penang runs hot at 30°C.

For travelers who prioritize dry weather, both cities are equally dry in May.

Kuala Lumpur reaches an average high of 30°C (86°F) and drops to 24°C (75°F) at night during May. The daily temperature range is 6°C, meaning relatively stable temperatures from day to night.

Penang averages 30°C (86°F) for the high and 26°C (79°F) for the low, with a daily range of 4°C. The two cities feel quite similar in terms of temperature.

Both cities are in the Northern Hemisphere, so they share the same seasonal pattern in May.

Kuala Lumpur receives approximately 235 mm of rainfall across 27 rain days during May. Rain is frequent, so waterproof gear is essential.

Penang sees 237 mm over 27 rain days. Both cities are equally rainy this month.

Both cities share similar humidity levels at 82%.