Generation Z perceptions in paying Zakat, Infaq, and Sadaqah using Fintech: A comparative study of Indonesia and Malaysia

Abstract

Generation Z is the future generation with technology familiarity and is a trendsetter in financial technology. This study aimed to compare (similarities and differences) perceptions of Generation Z Muslims in Indonesia and Malaysia in paying Zakat, Infaq, and Sadaqah (ZIS). This study uses a qualitative approach with phenomenological methods through focus group discussions. This method was chosen because it allows substantial interaction between participants to compare objects more boldly. Initially, there were 43 Generation Z students from Indonesia and 25 Generation Z students from Malaysia. The total reduction of participants was carried out to find the most relevant and appropriate participants by determining the criteria for having paid ZIS using financial technology (Fintech) at least once. With 10 participants from each country from the final narrowing results, two stages of Focus Group Discussion were carried out. The findings show the similarity of perceptions of awareness of use, including the need and importance of usage benefits. The similarity of perceptions regarding reputation was also found in professionalism and reliability. In contrast, similar perceptions of satisfaction occurred in aspects of multifunction and usability. In addition, differences were found in the perception of data security. There are still suspicions about data security among Indonesian participants. No studies directly compare Generation Z Muslims in the two countries that pay ZIS through Fintech. This study confirms that it is essential to increase the security of personal data when using fintech. Then there is a feeling of security and comfort for Generation Z who donated ZIS.