Contextual Preferences toward Digital Economic Transactions:Evidence from Rural Muslim Leaders in Indonesia

Abstract

Religious leaders serve as influential agents of societal change and act as cultural intermediaries, making them well-positioned to advocate for innovative ideas, such as the digitalization of economic transactions, with the goal of achieving a cashless society. This study aims to explore the preferences of rural Muslim leaders regarding the digitalization of economic transactions. Using a qualitative research methodology, primary data was collected from the field, specifically focusing on rural Muslim leaders who met predefined criteria. Data collection techniques included interviews and observations, and measures to ensure data validity involved triangulation, member checking, and emic methods. Data was analyzed using domain and taxonomy analysis techniques. The findings indicate that the preferences of rural Muslim leaders toward the digitalization of economic transactions do not consistently reflect the principles of completeness, transitivity, and continuity. The preferences among these leaders can be categorized as follows: (a) a preference for digital transactions over cash transactions; (b) a selective preference for digital transactions under certain conditions; (c) a reliance on digital transactions due to a lack of alternative options; and (d) a preference for cash transactions when they are available. Overall, the findings demonstrate that the preferences of rural Muslim leaders are context-driven and situation-specific, rather than following a consistent or stable pattern. External factors such as the availability of options, ease of access, and compatibility with religious values significantly influence their decision-making regarding transactions.