Preliminary study on the perception of E-Wallets usage by Malaysian online users

Abstract

E-wallet is a cashless payment method performed through applications. With wider accessibility to the Internet, the usage of e-wallets has increased and is believed to continuously grow among Malaysians. This preliminary study has been conducted on Malaysian online users to explore (i) background of Malaysian e-wallet users, (ii) their level of awareness, and (iii) their preference and perception on the usage of e-wallets in daily life. The self-administered survey through Google Form has been adapted based on two different surveys conducted by previous researchers. The convenience sampling method has been used so participation in the study is voluntary. A total of 119 responses from online users were collected, which found that 74% of the respondents know and use e-wallets. Majority of the users prefer to use it to pay for food and beverages. Other than that, based on the relationship testing between the users’ intention to continue to use an e-wallet, it depends on the benefit offered by the provider. They are likely to recommend the e-wallet platform to their relatives based on the perceived easiness factors. It is also determined by the other groups of respondents that the main reason for them not using e-wallets is due to the concerned that it will lead to transaction fraud. In conclusion, it is crucial for e-wallet providers in Malaysia to continuously improve their services by identifying and fulfilling the needs of their users to ensure their sustainability in the fintech industry.