Unveiling the nexus: unravelling the dynamics of financial inclusion, FinTech adoption and societal sustainability in Malaysia

PurposeThis study aims to examine the impact of perceived benefits-risk dynamics on financial inclusion, the factor driving fintech adoption, the mediating effects of financial inclusion on perceived benefit-risk dynamics and fintech adoption, and the societal sustainability effects of fintech adoption.Design/methodology/approachThis study used a quantitative study with 258 respondents in Sarawak, Malaysia. PLS-SEM was used to investigate the associations.FindingsThis study suggests that only non-monetary benefits and regulatory risks significantly influence financial inclusion. In addition, financial inclusion acts as an intermediary for non-monetary benefits and regulatory risks. Besides, a direct relationship exists between financial inclusion and fintech adoption, as well as between fintech adoption and societal sustainability.Research limitations/implicationsThis model explores a few benefits and risks. Also, technological and legislative changes may alter research outcomes. Besides, this study only samples Sarawak, Malaysia. Therefore, country-specific factors, including technology infrastructure, financial services accessibility and cultural variations, may affect participant responses. This study offers a novel perspective on fintech by including Valence, Public Good and Sustainable Information Society theories.Practical implicationsFinancial inclusion's non-monetary benefits must be emphasised to remove barriers and meet user requirements. Fintech firms should also work with authorities to comply with regulations and help marginalised populations by prioritising sustainability.Social implicationsFintech growth requires innovation, consumer protection and fair competition. Fintech firms can enhance financial inclusion to address inequalities (SDG10). Governments and fintech solutions should incorporate financial and digital literacy into education (SGG4).Originality/valueFinancial inclusion, fintech adoption and societal sustainability are examined using emotional, sociological and societal sustainability aspects.