An annual motorcycle gathering in Malaysia is under increased scrutiny following a series of fatal accidents and a surge in traffic violations linked to the event. The 2026 edition of the RXZ Members gathering, held from July 31 to August 1 in Kuala Terengganu, saw five deaths and a sharp rise in road incidents, prompting calls from the public and authorities for a reassessment of its future.

The RXZ Members event, which has been held annually since 2017, centers on the Yamaha RX-Z motorcycle—a model that has maintained a devoted following despite production ending in 2010. Known for its association with Malaysia’s illegal street-racing subculture, the bike is often heavily modified for performance and appearance. The 2026 gathering attracted over 200,000 participants from Malaysia and neighboring Singapore, many of whom traveled in large motorcycle convoys along the east coast ahead of and after the event.

Terengganu police chief Mohd Khairil Khairudin reported that five fatalities were recorded during this year’s gathering, matching last year’s death toll. However, the number of road accidents more than doubled, increasing from 11 incidents in 2025 to 29 in 2026. The casualties included four men and one woman, aged between 20 and 48. Police actions during the event led to the seizure of 222 motorcycles, mostly for illegal modifications, and the issuance of nearly 2,000 summonses. Among those arrested was a Singaporean rider caught performing a dangerous “Superman” stunt on the East Coast Expressway during the approach to the event.

Tragic cases during the gathering included a 13-year-old boy seriously injured in a collision and now in a medically induced coma. Public attention also surged following a fatal crash in late July, when four riders lost their lives in a collision on the expressway near Kemaman. Video footage from the incident and subsequent event showed reckless riding behavior, including street racing and excessive revving, which drew widespread condemnation on social media and from medical professionals.

Healthcare workers along the route expressed concerns about the event’s impact on hospitals. Mahyuddin Mohamed, head of the orthopedic department at Kemaman Hospital, stated that the influx of injured riders strained medical resources, diverting beds, medication, and blood supplies from other patients.

Despite ongoing criticism, the RXZ Members gathering has traditionally enjoyed political support. Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim and leaders of the governing Parti Islam SeMalaysia (PAS)—which controls Terengganu—have both shown backing for the event. In 2025, the government provided a RM300,000 (S$98,000) grant to support the gathering. PAS Youth leaders have also publicly embraced the event as part of their outreach to younger Malaysians.

Nonetheless, public opinion continues to call for stricter regulation or a complete ban. Users on social media have highlighted the dangers posed by the event, emphasizing that a passion for motorcycles should not compromise public safety.

The Road Transport Department (JPJ) has indicated it will reassess its position regarding future gatherings. Director-general Aedy Fadly Nami emphasized that the department’s priority is public safety and that it will take action against organizers if the event continues to pose risks.

In response to rising concerns, RXZ Members’ programme director Mohamad Faizal Mat Ali suggested the possibility of ending the event after its 10th edition, slated for 2028. He noted that the gathering was never intended to continue indefinitely and may conclude sooner depending on circumstances.