SUNGAI PETANI: Residents in rural areas and micro-entrepreneurs are encouraged to use more electronic or e-payments that offer various benefits compared with conventional payment methods.
Bank Negara Malaysia deputy governor Datuk Marzunisham Omar said that in today's digital world, e-payments should be considered as an alternative payment method to save time and effort in conducting transactions.
"More consumers and merchants have familiarised themselves with using e-payment facilities such as debit cards, credit cards, QR (Quick Response) codes, Internet banking, and e-wallets during the Covid-19 pandemic.
"All transactions, including paying bills, repaying loans, and transferring money to children who are studying, can be carried out at your fingertips," he said at the launch of the e-Duit Desa programme in Jeniang, here, today.
Bank Islam Malaysia Bhd group chief executive officer Mohd Muazzam Mohamed and Kedah state finance officer Isahak Murat were present at the event.
Marzunisham said e-payments could be a stepping stone for merchants to become more competitive.
"Transactions can be recorded directly, facilitating account management and loan applications in the future. Traders also do not have to worry about providing small change."
Speaking to the media after the programme, Marzunisham said Bank Negara and other banking institutions are always committed to ensuring increased use of e-payments among the public.
"The use of e-payments in rural areas is on the rise and we will always be on the ground to ensure higher growth while increasing awareness on how to use e-payments safely."
Similarly, Muazzam hoped the state's implementation of the first e-Duit Desa programme will help the district go cashless. --Bernama