'In my heart forever': Zayn Malik pays tribute to 'lost brother' Liam Payne

MANILA, Philippines — British singer Zayn Malik paid tribute to fellow artist Liam Payne, his former companion in the boy band One Direction, after the latter passed away at the age of 31.

The remaining members of One Direction released a joint statement on the group's social media accounts, its first post in over years since commemorating the boy band's 10th anniversary.

Zayn departed the group in 2015, a year before One Direction went on an indefinite hiatus. Despite this, he was still included in the joint statement that said he, Harry Styles, Louis Tomlinson, and Niall Horan were "completely devastated by the news of Liam's passing."

The four added they would cherish forever all the memories shared with Liam, miss him terribly, and sent love to his family, friends, and fans.

Related:  One Direction members 'devastated' by Liam Payne's death

On his own social media accounts, Zayn shared a throwback photo of him and Liam sleeping in a car accompanied by a personal statement.

Zayn said he found himself talking out loud to Liam in the wake of the latter's passing, lamenting the more conversations they could have had.

The singer thanked the younger Liam for being a pillar of support during difficult times and fighting homesickness.

"You were always more sensible than me, you were headstrong, opinionated, and gave no f**ks about telling people when they were wrong," Zayn continued. "Even though we butted heads because of this a few times, I always secretly respected you for it."

A post shared by Zayn Malik (@zayn)

Zayn also called Liam the "most qualified" when it came to music and could always rely on him whenever they were on stage together.

"I lost a brother when you left us and can't explain to you what I'd give to just hug you one last time, say goodbye to you properly, and tell you that I loved you dearly," he said.

He ended his statement hoping Liam was at peace and "knows how loved he is" by him and everyone who knew him.

Louis was the first member of One Direction to release his own personal statement, also referring to Liam as a brother and "somebody he looked up to everyday."

A post shared by Louis Tomlinson (@louist91)

"Liam was an incredible