Enhancing Islamic Social Finance Through FinTech: A User Experience (UX) Analysis of the MyZakat Mobile Application

Abstract

As zakat institutions in the Global South undergo digital transformation, understanding user interaction with FinTech tools is vital for sustainable social finance. This study evaluates the effectiveness of the MyZakat mobile application, a digital initiative by the Zakat Collection Centre (PPZ-MAIWP), by analyzing user experience (UX) and technical performance based on survey data (N=145). Employing a quantitative descriptive methodology, the research assesses four key dimensions: application quality, user-friendliness, information content, and service delivery. The findings indicate a moderate level of adoption, with user-friendliness scoring the highest (mean=3.64), while application quality remains the primary area for improvement (mean=3.46). Qualitative feedback reveals a “spiritual UX gap,” where users demand the integration of traditional ritualistic elements such as Lafaz Akad and Niat into the digital interface. Furthermore, the study identifies technical hurdles in payment gateway stability as a critical factor influencing institutional trust. By synthesizing these findings with Maqasid al-Shari’ah principles, this study provides a roadmap for optimizing Islamic FinTech platforms to ensure they harmonize technical efficiency with the religious requirements of muzakki.