If you're looking for a masterclass in how NOT TO communicate with candidates, this process is worth experiencing. I went through interviews and spoke with the hiring team, and was then asked to prepare a detailed market entry case study. Not a simple exercise either, a full strategy presentation covering target accounts, go-to-market approach, sales process, forecasts, and expansion plans. The case study was submitted on time as requested. Then... silence. No acknowledgment that it was received. No update. No timeline. Nothing. After waiting, I followed up via email and LinkedIn. Still nothing. Only after multiple follow-ups did I finally receive an update saying the hiring process had been put on hold. I completely understand that startups change direction. Roles get frozen. Budgets change. Priorities shift. What I don't understand is why candidates are expected to invest significant time and effort into a case study while basic communication somehow becomes optional. The most impressive part of the process was that it took several follow-ups just to get a simple status update. At the end of the day, the role being put on hold wasn't the issue. The communication was. Candidates can accept a yes. Candidates can accept a no. What candidates shouldn't have to do is chase repeatedly just to find out whether the process still exists. Best of luck entering the Malaysia market.