08/02/2026

ON SUNDAY February 8, 2026 theSunday Special IV

Cashless in the kampung : Bridging the digital payment divide I N many parts of rural Malaysia, cash still reigns supreme. From the makcik running a warung by the roadside to the sundry shop WXFNHG EHKLQG SDGG\ ¿HOGV VPDOO BY DAYANA SOBRI

WUDGHUV RIWHQ ¿QG FRPIRUW LQ WKH SK\VLFDO exchange of ringgit notes. Yet, as Malaysia pushes towards becoming a fully digital economy, the question looms: Can tech nology truly bridge the payment divide between city and kampung life? According to Tee Kean Kang, chief FRPPHUFLDO Ṙ FHU RI 3D\GLEV WKH MRXUQH\ towards cashless inclusivity in rural Ma laysia is complex – one that intertwines infrastructure, education and trust. “In urban areas, cashless payments had already become second nature. Consum ers were used to scanning QR codes, tapping cards and paying via e-wallets – all supported by strong internet con nectivity and multiple payment options,” Tee explained.

If the cashless payment option is only via smartphone apps, we’re excluding the older generation and those without smart devices.”

Tee