The boy band has released its first group shot without Malik and have also started writing songs for their fifth studio album, Payne revealed on Twitter, reported New York Daily News.
Payne also divulged that he and his bandmates are writing with singer-songwriter Jamie Scott.
One Direction's follow-up to the 2014 album titled "Four" is scheduled to be released "later this year," according to the group's bio.
Malik's abrupt exit from the group upset the band's loyal fanbase, many of whom were concerned whether the group would go on without him.
"We're gutted Zayn chose to leave. But now after a few performances as a four-piece, we feel confident and determined to carry on stronger than ever," Payne added.