Here’s What You Need to Know About the Abrupt Shutdown of Popular Fitness App 1Fit in M’sia That’s Left Users Fuming

1Fit is an application that allows users to access a variety of gyms, studios, and fitness classes. Originating from Kazakhstan, the app had been operating in Malaysia since February 2024 and gained a significant following over the years due to its convenience and affordable pricing.

However, many loyal users were left shocked after the founder and CEO of 1Fit, Murat Alikhanov, suddenly announced via Instagram that the app would be shutting down in Malaysia.

Image Credit: Instagram

In the video, Murat explained that the company had allegedly invested USD4.2 million (approximately RM17.83 million) into building the app in Malaysia but ultimately found it unsustainable.

“We spent USD4.2 million to acquire new users, hire an A-level team, and make fitness accessible for everyone. We generated USD2.7 million (about RM11.46 million) in sales, and you can quickly figure out that the math doesn't add up."

"We tried to make the numbers work. We tried to raise more capital. We explored every option to keep things going, but in the end, we couldn't secure the funding needed to continue. We are heartbroken for our team, our partners, and our users who loved the product,” he stated.

Image Credit: Instagram

In another Instagram post, 1Fit announced that due to insufficient funding, they would initiate a formal liquidation process to wind down operations and settle obligations.

This means no new bookings or purchases can be made through the app. All refunds will be processed in strict queue order and are subject to available funds, in accordance with the liquidation process.

Additionally, users requesting refunds may do so via a link that directs them to a 1Fit WhatsApp chat.

Affected users report lack of official communication & transparency

Needless to say, the abrupt closure of the app has left many users frustrated.

In a press release shared with Rojak Daily, users who had subscribed many of whom paid in full for plans ranging from RM1,500 to RM3,500 were only given a Google Form to request refunds.

Image Credit: Google Form

“Suspiciously, it also asked users to tick a box confirming that they ‘understand refunds will follow queue order and available funds.’”

Meanwhile, users were also suspicious over how the form didn’t even ask for their bank details for the refund, which could possibly indicate that no actual refund process was being prepared in the first place.

As of June 14, many affected users reported a lack of official communication from 1Fit regarding refunds. Additionally, the company’s social media platforms and customer support channels have gone silent.

Additionally, users weren’t the only ones affected by the sudden closure. Several studios and gyms have also voiced their concerns, with some accusing 1Fit of owing them unpaid dues.

Image Credit: Instagram

On top of that, a number of influencers have come forward, revealing that they were asked to promote the app as recently as June, all without any indication that the business was on the verge of shutting down.

Image Credit: Instagram

1Fit has ceased operations in other countries

In a related report, Malaysia is not the only country where 1Fit has abruptly shut down.

The company also announced the termination of its operations in Mexico, citing financial difficulties and security risks to employees.

1Fit was launched in Mexico in August 2024, covering cities like Guadalajara, Mexico City, and Querétaro. However, the app unexpectedly ceased operations and relocated its team back to Kazakhstan.

Image Credit: DeDinero

A Mexican media outlet reported that 1Fit left the country without notifying users and partners, leaving behind debts and unfulfilled obligations.

Much like in Malaysia, most customers who had paid for one-year or six-month memberships have yet to receive refunds.

Alarmingly, Mexico and Malaysia are not the only overseas markets 1Fit has exited.

In 2022, the company ceased operations in Russia. A year later, after only six months of operation, 1Fit terminated its services in the United Kingdom, reportedly suffering a loss of approximately USD97,000 (about RM411,522).

Featured Image Credit: SDP Noticias, Instagram