Public holidays around the world are typically used to commemorate significant cultural, historic, and religious events. And here in Singapore, they serve as an opportunity for relaxation, celebrating festivals, or taking a trip to wonderful destinations around Asia. From Chinese New Year to National Day, these public holidays in Singapore allow locals to recharge from their busy schedules or spend time with family or friends. But did you know that Singapore has the fewest number of public holidays in Southeast Asia?
ASEAN Fewest Public Holidays – Singapore
According to our study, Singapore is one of the worst countries in Southeast Asia for public holidays. Why is this? Because there are only 11 countries in Southeast Asia: Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, East Timor, Myanmar, the Philippines, Thailand, Vietnam, and Singapore.
Southeast Asian countries leading the way for public holidays are Indonesia at #1 with 27 dates, followed by Cambodia in second place, The Philippines at the third position, while Myanmar and Brunei round off the Top 5 with 19 public holidays each for 2025.
In contrast, Singapore observes 11 public holidays in 2025 including the upcoming Good Friday on April 18, Labour Day on May 1, Vesak Day on May 12, and Hari Raya Haji on June 7, to name a few. In fact, Singapore and Vietnam share eight and ninth place on the list each observing 11 public holiday dates. So, this makes both countries the third lowest in ASEAN for 2025 public holidays.
Here are the Top 10 Southeast Asia countries for public holidays in 2025:
- Indonesia (27 public holidays for 2025)
- Cambodia (22)
- The Philippines (21)
- Myanmar (19)
- Brunei (19)
- Thailand (17)
- Malaysia (12 federal public holidays)
- Vietnam (11)
- Singapore (11)
- Laos (10)
Additionally, Singapore could even be considered one of the countries with the fewest public holidays worldwide.
Interestingly, Nepal ranks as the best country in the world for public holidays. The nation offers its citizens between 35 and 39 public holidays annually. On the other hand, Switzerland is the worst country globally for public holiday dates with as little as seven yearly.
Meanwhile, public holidays in Singapore reflect the multicultural society, honour key cultural festivals, comprising Chinese, Malays, Indians, Eurasians, and expatriates from around the world. Certainly, Singaporeans love a good public holiday enabling them to reconnect with loved ones, enjoy vibrant cultural practices, and take up opportunities for leisure.
These statistics are counted from each country’s 2025 public holidays government website.
Looking ahead to 2026? Get the Singapore Public Holidays Guide 2026