Flash Express, Thailand’s first startup to achieve unicorn status, is understood to be winding down its operations in Malaysia, according to information shared with WeirdKaya.
The Thailand-based logistics company made headlines in 2021 after becoming the country’s first unicorn, achieving a valuation of over US$1 billion just a few years after its founding.
Following its rapid rise in Thailand, Flash Express expanded regionally, including into Malaysia, where it has operated for four years.
However, despite its strong regional profile, several Flash Express staff told WeirdKaya that the company made an internal announcement on 17 December, informing employees of its decision to shut down its Malaysian operations.
Notice confirms operation cessation
An official notice circulating online has since confirmed that Flash Express Malaysia will cease operations in Malaysia on 31 January 2026.
According to the announcement, the company will stop accepting new shipment orders from 15 January 2026.
However, all orders placed before 15 January 2026 will continue to be delivered as usual.
In explaining the decision, the company cited intense market competition, high operating costs, and continuous losses as key reasons for shutting down its Malaysia business.
The statement added that Flash Express’ operations in other countries will not be affected by the decision.
‘There were no signs at all,’ employee claims
According to a staff member who requested anonymity, the announcement came as a shock to many employees, especially as the company had just celebrated its fourth anniversary in Malaysia.
Most staff were only notified of the shutdown last Wednesday (17 Dec) , with no prior indication that the business was facing closure.
“Last Monday, I was just briefed on how to fill in my year-end evaluation form, and my manager was planning the project for next year. ”
But by Wednesday, I was told that the company is shutting down. I was shocked because there were no signs at all,” the staff member said.
They added that employees have yet to receive clear information regarding retrenchment exercises or whether they would be offered transfers to the company’s Thailand branch.
So far, there has been no information on retrenchment,” the staff member added.
WeirdKaya has reached out to Flash Express’ PR team for an official comment and will update this article once a response is received.
Notably, the reported shutdown comes shortly after Flash Express Malaysia launched its year-end promotional campaign last week.
Businesses say shipments will stop mid-January
In addition, several business owners who rely on Flash Express Malaysia for deliveries shared that they were informed the company would stop accepting shipment orders starting 15 January 2026.
In one of its statements, Flash Express Malaysia said it would ensure a “complete and well-managed transition”.
Flash Malaysia Express deeply regrets having to make this decision and sincerely appreciates your unwavering support and trust throughout our journey.
We assure you that your businesses with Flash in other countries will remain fully unaffected and continue as usual,” the statement read.
