Malaysians Are Swiping Right On Digital Banking
As technology continues to reshape the way we live, it’s no surprise that our banks are getting a digital makeover too. From e-wallets like Touch n’ Go (TNG) to digital neobanks in Malaysia such as GXBank, KAF Bank, and Aeon Bank, and now Malaysia’s latest addition—Ryt Bank, the world’s first AI-powered bank. Our local banking scene is slowly but surely going through a major digital glow-up.
While many still prefer the traditional way of banking by queuing at different outlets, these new-age digital banks are making banking fast, convenient, and secure, but also a whole lot cooler with their minimalistic interfaces and sleek physical cards.
Back when Bank Negara Malaysia approved five digital banking licenses in 2022, it officially changed the game for the banking industry, setting the stage for a new financial era. Although Malaysia’s digital banking industry may still be in its infancy stages, it shows strong potential for growth.
Globally: A new wave of banking has only just begun
Malaysia isn’t the only one riding the digital banking wave. Around the world, digital banks are making headlines for their advanced ways of banking. Take China, for example, where cash and cards are becoming almost unnecessary as people now pay by simply waving their hand, thanks to advanced biometric technology. Then we have South Korea’s mobile-only bank, KaKaoBank, which blends social media features, seamless mobile experiences, and financial services all in one app.
Coming back to Malaysia, there’s been a massive growth in our usage of e-wallets and digital banks. Many Malaysians no longer rely solely on traditional banking to save, spend, and manage their money. This demonstrates that digital banking services are the next step in revolutionising how we bank, making it smarter, faster, and more human-centred.
Malaysia’s Moment: Why are Malaysians shifting towards digital banks?
When GXBank became Malaysia’s first digital bank, it helped pave the way forward for how Malaysians handle money. In fact, over 92% of Malaysians have transitioned to digital financial services, a clear sign that Malaysians are ready for this shift.
With cashback perks and higher interest rates that encourage smarter saving habits, digital banks offer more than just convenience. They’re rewarding their customers for doing what we do best: spending. Whether it’s through a virtual or physical card, customers get to enjoy a banking experience that’s seamless, convenient and accessible.
Beyond the perks, digital banks are also bridging financial gaps that traditional banks often leave behind. Many underprivileged Malaysians don’t have access to loans or basic banking services due to unstable or low income, strict credit requirements or the absence of bank branches to help facilitate the procedures. Digital banks have transformed this narrative into an opportunity for inclusivity and accessibility.
“Digital banking serves as a solution to bridge the gap in financial inclusion by catering to the underserved and unserved market segments, in an effort to boost sustainable economic growth,” said Dr Siti Hawa Yusof, a lecturer at the School of Accounting & Finance at Taylor’s University.
As long as one has a smartphone with access to the app store, whether it’s Android or iOS, Malaysians will have a fair shot at financial stability and growth.
Everything from opening an account to transactions happen on your phone. All you have to do is download the app, sign up, and you’re good to go! Convenience is truly an understatement to what digital banks have to offer. Even international transactions are becoming easier and cheaper, with platforms like Wise and TNG offering competitive rates.
Still, as exciting as the shift is, it’s not without its challenges. When Ryt Bank first made headlines, many started raising concerns about cybersecurity. Their solutions stay true to their core approach: leveraging AI-driven security to address these issues head on. Their solutions include real-time fraud monitoring, “Guardrail Agents” that verify user identity, monitor transactions and secure AI development. Together, these innovations are redefining how digital banks detect fraud in Malaysia.
What we can look forward to
Digital banks are just getting started and their impact on how we bank and manage our money will continue to grow and adapt to our ever-changing world. As technology evolves, we can expect even smarter and more personalised financial tools designed to make banking simpler, secure and accessible for all Malaysians. The future of finance isn’t far away, it’s already here right in the palm of our hands.
