Kota Kinabalu Weather in January
January in Kota Kinabalu brings high temperatures, with highs of 29°C (84°F) and nights dropping to 24°C (75°F). The rainy season is in full swing this month, so frequent downpours are part of the picture.
Rainfall in Kota Kinabalu in January
As part of the rainy season, Kota Kinabalu sees around 18 days of rain in January, with an average of 200 mm (7.9 in). Rainfall this month is frequent and tends to be fairly heavy when it does fall. Packing waterproofs is a good idea.
Temperature in Kota Kinabalu in January
In January, Kota Kinabalu gets high temperatures, with highs of 29°C (84°F). Nights cool to around 24°C (75°F). Overall, the month follows a fairly predictable daily temperature pattern. With lows around 24°C (75°F), the nights are warm enough that a sheet is usually all you need for bedding.
Sunshine in Kota Kinabalu in January
With about 188 hours of sunshine, the area enjoys a nice balance of sun and rainy moments, creating a pleasant environment.
Wind Speed in Kota Kinabalu in January
Wind speeds average 1 m/s (2 knots) during January. At this speed, you'll experience mostly light air movement that's just barely noticeable. As an average, some days will be completely calm while others have gentle breezes you can feel on your skin.Our weather planner can help you find worldwide destinations with pleasant weather during this period. February typically offers the best weather for Kota Kinabalu.
Check the conditions for any month of the year.
For a detailed overview over the year and the best time to visit Malaysia, check out our Kota Kinabalu's climate page.
Kota Kinabalu Temperature in January
Min Temperature
24°C (75°F)
Max Temperature
29°C (84°F)
Chance of Rain
58%
Precipitation
200 mm (7.9 in)
Rainy days
18 days
Humidity
82%
Windspeed
1 m/s (2 knots)
Sunshine
188 hours
Percentage Sunshine
Daily Historical Temperatures
50-year average (1976-2026)
Based on our historical records, temperatures in Kota Kinabalu typically stay consistent throughout January, with daily highs averaging around 29°C (84°F). Nights are warm, with lows around 24°C (75°F).
Average temperatures in January
Daily Historical Precipitation
50-year average (1976-2026)
Average daily rainfall for each day of the month based on long-term records.
Average precipitation in January
Historical weather for Kota Kinabalu in January
Browse day-by-day weather records for Kota Kinabalu spanning 51 years. Select any month and year to see actual temperatures, rainfall, and conditions recorded on each day.
Kota Kinabalu historical weather extremes in January
According to our 41 years of weather records for Kota Kinabalu, the following extremes were recorded between 1984 and 2025.
- The warmest day in January was on January 12, 1992, with a maximum of 38°C (100°F).
- On January 17, 2021, Kota Kinabalu saw its coldest January day with temperatures maxing out at 23°C (73°F).
- Kota Kinabalu registered its coldest January night on January 28, 2014, with temperatures dropping to 20°C (68°F).
Best Places in Malaysia in January
Find out more about the weather in Malaysia and which places have the best travel conditions in this month. See all of Malaysia in January →
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What to Wear in Kota Kinabalu in January
Warm temperatures in January make for comfortable sightseeing weather. Pack breathable fabrics like cotton shirts, knee-length shorts or skirts, and comfortable walking shoes. A thin long sleeve for indoor spaces is handy. Heavy rain is guaranteed, please bring a good poncho and waterproof everything! It won't hurt to bring your sunglasses along, as you'll see some sunny periods.What To Do in Kota Kinabalu in January
We rated the following activities from 1 (least suitable) to 10 (best) to do.
Check the conditions for any month of the year.
For a detailed overview over the year and the best time to visit Malaysia, check out our Kota Kinabalu's climate page.
Temperature Rainfall Sunshine Humidity Wind Speed
See the full Kota Kinabalu climate overview or explore weather in Malaysia.
