International Men’s Day 2026: what it is and celebration ideas

International Men’s Day falls on Thuesday, 19 November 2026, giving us a reason to appreciate the fathers, brothers, partners, friends and colleagues who make everyday life a little better. 

Think about the dad who insists he doesn’t need anything for his birthday, the friend who’s always ready for a late-night mamak session or the colleague who quietly helps everyone when work gets hectic. They’re not necessarily expecting a celebration, but that doesn’t mean a little appreciation wouldn’t make their day. 

Beyond gifts and greetings, International Men’s Day is also an opportunity to recognise positive male role models, encouraging conversations about men’s wellbeing and acknowledge the contributions men make to their families, workplace and communities. Whether you’re planning a small surprise, a good meal or a thoughtful gesture, here are some meaningful ways to celebrate International Men’s Day in Malaysia. 

How did International Men’s Day begin and why is it celebrated today? 

If you’re only hearing about International Men’s Day now, you might assume it’s a relatively new celebration. In fact, the modern observance began in 1999 when Dr Jerome Teelucksingh, a history lecturer from Trinidad and Tobago, introduced it to recognise positive male role models and highlight the contributions men make to their families and communities.

He chose 19 November in honour of his father, whom he described as an example of the values the day seeks to celebrate. Over time, the observance gained support in countries around the world and evolved into an occasion that recognises positive male role models, encourages discussion about men’s wellbeing and celebrates the many ways men contribute to society.

Today, International Men’s Day is marked through community events, workplace initiatives and personal celebrations, but its message remains simple: taking time to appreciate the men who make a positive difference in our lives.

How to celebrate International Men’s Day for loved ones in Malaysia 

The most meaningful activities are often those that reflect the interests, relationships and experiences of those we love and appreciate. Here are a few ideas that feel personal without being overly complicated. 

Treat him to his favourite meal 

If there’s one thing that brings Malaysians together, it’s food. Maybe your dad has a favourite nasi kandar spot he never gets tired of visiting. Your brother might prefer a proper burger, while your friends are always up for a late-night mamak session. Instead of choosing somewhere fancy just because it’s a special occasion, pick a place you know he’ll enjoy. You could organise a family dinner, meet your friends for supper or surprise a colleague with lunch. 

If you’re looking for somewhere new, Near Me in TNG eWallet can help you discover nearby restaurants and participating dining deals. The best part isn’t necessarily the meal itself. It’s having time to catch up without everyone rushing off to their next commitment. 

Send a little surprise with Money Packet 

If your brothers or friends are scattered across different places, you can still send them something to brighten their day. With Money Packet in TNG eWallet, you can share eWallet credit with a group through a QR code or link. Use the Random option for a little added fun and ‘competition’, or the Equal distribution option for something more ‘peaceful’ and fair. You could send a Money Packet to your group chat with a simple message wishing everyone a happy International Men’s Day. It’s a light-hearted way to celebrate together, even when meeting in person isn’t possible. Just check the applicable account and transaction requirements before sending. 

Plan a getaway he’ll actually enjoy 

If your father, partner or friends enjoy travelling, why not turn International Men’s Day into an excuse to plan a trip together? For a relaxed weekend, you could head to Ipoh for white coffee, tau fu fa and a stroll around the Old Town. If he enjoys beaches, Langkawi offers a change of scenery, while Penang combines heritage streets with plenty of places to eat. 

For something beyond Malaysia, you could start planning an overseas holiday that you’ve been meaning to go on but never quite organised. The trip doesn’t have to happen on 19 November. Sometimes, having something to look forward to is part of the gift. Once you’ve agreed on a destination, you can search for flights and hotels through Travel in TNG eWallet, subject to available services and booking conditions. Before confirming, compare the total prices, travel dates and cancellation terms so the experience remains enjoyable from the planning stage onwards. 

Put something aside for a gift worth waiting for 

Not every thoughtful gift needs to be bought immediately. Maybe you’ve been thinking about getting your dad a new watch, treating your partner to a holiday or buying your brother something related to his favourite hobby. Instead of making a rushed purchase, you could start planning ahead. 

For example, if you’re hoping to spend RM600 on a future gift, putting aside RM100 each month for six months would help you reach that amount through regular contributions. For money you’ve already set aside, GO+ in TNG eWallet is an investment option that offers potential returns through an underlying money market fund managed by Principal Asset Management Berhad. However, GO+ is not a bank deposit or guaranteed savings account. Returns may fluctuate, and the product is not protected by Perbadanan Insurans Deposit Malaysia (PIDM). The idea isn’t to spend more just because it’s a special occasion. It’s to plan for something meaningful without putting unnecessary pressure on your finances.

Make time for his favourite hobby 

Sometimes, the best gift is simply having someone join you in something you enjoy. If your friend loves badminton, organise a game. If your brother enjoys gaming, spend an evening playing together. If your dad likes fishing, ask whether you can join him on his next trip. You don’t have to be particularly good at the activity. What matters is showing interest in something that’s important to him. And if he’s the type who prefers a quiet afternoon at home, that’s worth respecting too. A celebration should feel enjoyable for the person being celebrated, not like another obligation. 

Check in with someone you haven’t spoken to in a while 

Not every International Men’s Day celebration needs to be cheerful or elaborate. Sometimes, the most meaningful thing you can do is reach out to someone who might need a little support. Maybe a friend has been dealing with work pressure, a family member has been unusually quiet or someone you know has been going through a difficult period. A simple message asking how they’re doing can create an opportunity for an honest conversation. You don’t need to offer solutions to every problem. Listening without judgement and encouraging professional help when appropriate can make a difference.

International Men’s Day celebration ideas for the workplace 

International Men’s Day is also an opportunity to recognise colleagues who make the workplace more supportive. A team lunch can give colleagues time to chat outside their usual work responsibilities. A friendly badminton match or casual sports activity can offer a change of pace. You could also invite colleagues to share appreciation messages for teammates who have helped them, whether through mentoring, encouragement or simply being dependable during busy periods. 

If your workplace wants to focus on wellbeing, consider arranging a short session about managing stress, work-life balance or preventive healthcare with a qualified professional. The aim isn’t to single people out or create a competition over achievements. It’s to recognise positive contributions and encourage a healthier working environment. 

Simple ways to wish someone a happy International Men’s Day 

You don’t need a perfectly written message to make someone feel appreciated. In fact, the more personal it is, the better. 

• For your father, you could say “Happy International Men’s Day, Dad! Thank you for always looking out for us, even when we forget to say it.” 
• For your partner “Happy International Men’s Day! I appreciate all the little things you do and the way you make everyday life better.” 
• For your brother or friend “Happy Men’s Day, bro! Thanks for always having my back. Let’s catch up soon.” 
• For a colleague “Happy International Men’s Day! Thanks for being someone the team can always count on.” 

You can make these messages more meaningful by mentioning a specific memory or something you genuinely appreciate about the person. It doesn’t have to be long. It just has to sound like you.

Why support matters just as much as celebration 

International Men’s Day 2026 is  often associated with gifts, meals and thoughtful gestures, but sometimes the most meaningful thing you can offer is your time and support. Appreciation doesn’t have to wait for birthdays, anniversaries or major achievements. Sometimes, it’s the people who quietly show up for us every day who deserve a little extra recognition. 

Whether you’re treating your dad to his favourite meal, catching up with an old friend, planning a weekend getaway or simply sending a thoughtful message, choose something that feels personal. If you’re celebrating from afar, you can share a Money Packet through TNG eWallet. And if you’re planning a future trip together, GOtravel in TNG eWallet can help you explore available flights and hotels. It’s about recognising the people who show up for us throughout the year and making sure they know their efforts don’t go unnoticed. 

FAQs 

Who started International Men’s Day? 

The modern International Men’s Day observance was established by Dr Jerome Teelucksingh in Trinidad and Tobago in 1999. 

Is International Men’s Day a public holiday in Malaysia? 

No. International Men’s Day is not a gazetted public holiday in Malaysia. However, individuals, workplaces and communities can organise activities to mark the occasion. 

Is International Men’s Day the same as Father’s Day? 

No. Father’s Day focuses on fathers and father figures, while International Men’s Day recognises men and boys more broadly, including their contributions, wellbeing and challenges. 

How can I celebrate International Men’s Day? 

You can celebrate by spending quality time with the men in your life, sending appreciation messages, organising a meal, participating in men’s health activities or supporting a relevant community cause. 

What is a good gift for International Men’s Day? 

A thoughtful gift reflects the recipient’s interests. It could be a favourite meal, a book, a hobby-related item or a shared experience. A sincere appreciation message can also be meaningful without requiring any spending.