Analysis of Factors Influencing Financial Technology Usage Among Students of Politeknik Tuanku Syed Sirajuddin, Malaysia

Abstract

This study aims to analyze the factors influencing the use of Financial Technology (FinTech) among students of Politeknik Tuanku Syed Sirajuddin (PTSS), Malaysia. The study employed a descriptive qualitative approach involving 50 students who had experience using digital financial services. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews, observation, and documentation. The interviews were conducted to obtain in-depth information regarding students’ experiences, perceptions, and considerations in using FinTech services. The results indicate that FinTech usage is influenced by seven main factors: perceived usefulness, perceived ease of use, trust, security, social influence, financial literacy, and digital literacy. Perceived usefulness and perceived ease of use emerged as the most prominent factors, as students considered FinTech services to be convenient, fast, flexible, and practical for conducting financial transactions. Digital literacy also plays an important role in enabling students to operate applications, understand features, maintain account security, and recognize potential digital risks. Meanwhile, trust and security are associated with the protection of funds and personal information, while social influence is primarily related to peers and the surrounding social environment. Financial literacy supports students’ ability to use FinTech services wisely and responsibly. The findings indicate that FinTech usage is influenced not only by technological aspects but also by users’ knowledge, abilities, trust, and social environment. Therefore, strengthening financial and digital literacy, along with improving awareness of digital transaction security, is important for supporting effective, safe, and responsible FinTech usage among students.