Zayn Malik is putting his touring plans on hold following the death of his One Direction bandmate Liam Payne.

Malik, 31, announced on Instagram Stories today that the US leg of his tour was being put on hold following Payne's death on October 16.

"Given the heartbreaking loss experienced this week, I have made the decision to postpone the American leg of the STAIRWAY TO THE SKY tour," Malik said of the shows, which were scheduled to begin on October 23.

"The dates are being rescheduled for January and I will post them as soon as they are set in the next few days. Tickets remain valid for the new dates," he added.

Malik concluded: "I love you all and thank you for your understanding."

Payne died earlier this week after falling from a hotel balcony in Buenos Aires.

Malik, along with fellow One Direction members Harry Styles, Louis Tomlinson and Niall Horan, posted a joint statement on October 17 reacting to Payne's death.

"We are completely devastated by the news of Liam's passing. The memories we shared with him will be treasured forever. For now, our thoughts are with his family, friends and fans who loved him by our side. We will miss him terribly."

Malik also posted his Instagram tribute to Payne on Oct. 17.

"I lost a brother when you left us and I can't explain what I would give you just to hug you one last time and say goodbye properly and tell you I love you and respect you so much .

“I will forever hold all the memories I have with you in my heart, there are no words to justify or explain how I feel right now, other than devastated. I hope that wherever you are now, you are well and at peace and know how much you are loved."

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