4. Theses

This paper explores the role of Islamic finance in promoting financial inclusion in Malaysia and achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The study uses a mixed-methods approach, combining a review of literature, empirical data collection, and data analysis techniques. The findings suggest that there are several factors driving the adoption of Islamic finance in Malaysia, including the availability and accessibility of Islamic financial products and services, government policies and support, and the attitudes and perceptions of stakeholders towards Islamic finance. However, the study also reveals significant barriers to financial inclusion in Malaysia, including low levels of financial literacy, limited access to financial services in rural areas, and cultural and religious considerations, particularly in relation to interest-based banking. The study recommends that policy makers, practitioners, and stakeholders should focus on enhancing financial literacy, expanding access to financial services, and promoting Islamic finance as a viable alternative to interest-based banking. This will require a concerted effort to build awareness, education, and capacity in the Islamic finance sector, as well as collaboration between the public and private sectors to develop innovative and sustainable financial products and services that cater to the needs of underserved and marginalized communities. The study contributes to the existing knowledge on Islamic finance and financial inclusion in Malaysia and provides useful insights for future research in this area.