Weather Comparison
Penang vs Kuala Lumpur
Side-by-side weather comparison for May
May Weather: Penang vs Kuala Lumpur
| Metric | Penang | Kuala Lumpur | Better |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average HighHigher is warmer | 30°C (86°F) | 30°C (86°F) | Tie |
| Average LowHigher is milder | 26°C (79°F)▲ | 24°C (75°F) | Penang |
| Rain DaysFewer is drier | 27 days | 27 days | Tie |
| PrecipitationLess is drier | 237 mm | 235 mm▲ | Kuala Lumpur |
| Sunshine HoursMore is sunnier | 10h/day | 10h/day | Tie |
| HumidityLower is more comfortable | 82% | 82% | Tie |
| UV IndexLower is safer | 8 | 8 | Tie |
| Wind SpeedCalmer is better | 9 km/h | 9 km/h | Tie |
Which City is Better in May?
Penang and Kuala Lumpur 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.
Penang can feel quite hot at 30°C, so plan for heat. Kuala Lumpur runs hot at 30°C.
For travelers who prioritize dry weather, both cities are equally dry in May.
Temperature Comparison in May
Penang reaches an average high of 30°C (86°F) and drops to 26°C (79°F) at night during May. The daily temperature range is 4°C, meaning relatively stable temperatures from day to night.
Kuala Lumpur averages 30°C (86°F) for the high and 24°C (75°F) for the low, with a daily range of 6°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.
Rainfall Comparison in May
Penang receives approximately 237 mm of rainfall across 27 rain days during May. Rain is frequent, so waterproof gear is essential.
Kuala Lumpur sees 235 mm over 27 rain days. Both cities are equally rainy this month.
Both cities share similar humidity levels at 82%.
What to Pack: Penang vs Kuala Lumpur
Packing for Penang in May
Highs of 30°C, lows of 26°C, 27 rain days
- ✓lightweight breathable clothing
- ✓sunscreen SPF 50+
- ✓sunglasses
- ✓a wide-brimmed hat
- ✓waterproof jacket
- ✓compact umbrella
- ✓waterproof shoes
- ✓moisture-wicking fabrics
Packing for Kuala Lumpur in May
Highs of 30°C, lows of 24°C, 27 rain days
- ✓lightweight breathable clothing
- ✓sunscreen SPF 50+
- ✓sunglasses
- ✓a wide-brimmed hat
- ✓waterproof jacket
- ✓compact umbrella
- ✓waterproof shoes
- ✓moisture-wicking fabrics
Pack for both: lightweight breathable clothing, sunscreen SPF 50+, sunglasses, a wide-brimmed hat, waterproof jacket, compact umbrella, waterproof shoes, moisture-wicking fabrics. These items are useful in either destination during May.
Year-Round Comparison: Penang vs Kuala Lumpur
The table below shows average high temperatures and rain days for every month of the year, helping you find the best time to visit either city.May is highlighted for quick reference.
| Month | Penang | Kuala Lumpur | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| High | Rain | High | Rain | |
| Jan | 29°C | 15d | 29°C | 21d |
| Feb | 30°C | 16d | 30°C | 18d |
| Mar | 30°C | 23d | 30°C | 26d |
| Apr | 30°C | 28d | 30°C | 28d |
| May | 30°C | 27d | 30°C | 27d |
| Jun | 30°C | 22d | 30°C | 23d |
| Jul | 30°C | 21d | 30°C | 24d |
| Aug | 30°C | 24d | 30°C | 25d |
| Sep | 29°C | 26d | 30°C | 25d |
| Oct | 29°C | 29d | 30°C | 27d |
| Nov | 29°C | 27d | 29°C | 28d |
| Dec | 29°C | 21d | 29°C | 26d |
Penang Weather in May
Full forecast, packing tips, and activities
Kuala Lumpur Weather in May
Full forecast, packing tips, and activities