Digital Payments Surge in Malaysia as Transactions Hit 8.44 Billion in 2025
PETALING JAYA: Malaysia’s shift towards a cashless economy gathered further momentum in 2025, with Payments Network Malaysia recording a total of 8.44 billion digital payment transactions throughout the year.
The figure highlights a substantial rise in the use of electronic payment methods, reflecting a broader transformation in how Malaysians conduct financial activities in their daily lives. From retail spending and transport fares to peer-to-peer transfers and small business transactions, digital payments have become deeply embedded in everyday routines.
Chief Executive Officer Praveen Rajan said the continued expansion signals a long-term behavioural shift among consumers and businesses alike.
“Digital payments are now widely accepted as the preferred method of transaction, supported by ongoing innovation and close collaboration between banks, non-bank institutions, merchants and the government,” he said.
Growing participation across sectors
The increase in transaction volume has been driven by stronger participation from financial institutions across the board. Banking institutions recorded a growth of 30.69 per cent in digital transactions, while non-bank players posted a significantly higher increase of 71.7 per cent.
This trend reflects a more dynamic and inclusive payment ecosystem, where a wider range of service providers are contributing to accessibility and innovation.
The growth is in line with initiatives led by Bank Negara Malaysia under the Financial Sector Blueprint 2022–2026, which focuses on building a secure, efficient and inclusive digital payment infrastructure nationwide.
Rising daily usage and consumer confidence
On average, Malaysians carried out around 6.3 million digital transactions each day in 2025, marking a clear increase compared to the previous year. Transaction volumes were particularly high during festive seasons and major holidays, reflecting stronger reliance on digital payment platforms.
The steady rise in usage suggests growing public confidence in the safety, convenience and reliability of digital payment systems.
DuitNow QR expansion boosts adoption
A major contributor to this growth has been the rapid expansion of DuitNow QR acceptance points. In 2025 alone, 681,250 new locations were added, including 267,780 among micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs).
This expansion brings the total number of registered touchpoints nationwide to more than three million, significantly improving access for both consumers and merchants.
The wider availability of QR-based payments has helped accelerate adoption, particularly among small businesses seeking cost-effective and efficient payment solutions.
Strong growth beyond urban centres
Notably, digital payment adoption is no longer limited to urban areas. States such as Terengganu, Kelantan and Kedah recorded the fastest growth, with transaction volumes in rural regions increasing threefold compared to the previous year.
This development underscores the success of efforts to promote financial inclusion and ensure that digital payment services reach all segments of society.
PayNet reaffirmed its commitment to enhancing the national payment infrastructure, focusing on security, stability and accessibility as Malaysia continues its transition toward a fully digital economy.
-wilayah.com.my
