Malaysians under 30 spend RM5.4b via BNPL in first half of 2026

KUALA LUMPUR — Malaysians aged 30 and below accounted for RM5.4 billion in Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) transactions during the first half of 2026, the Finance Ministry revealed on Tuesday. The age group completed 65.9 million transactions over the six-month period, demonstrating the significant penetration of deferred payment services among the country's youth.

The figures highlight a shift in consumer spending behaviour, particularly among younger Malaysians who have embraced BNPL platforms as an alternative to traditional credit facilities. These services allow consumers to purchase goods and services immediately while spreading payment over multiple instalments, often without upfront interest charges.

The scale of BNPL adoption among under-30s reflects broader digital payment trends reshaping retail and e-commerce in Malaysia. As fintech solutions continue to proliferate, regulatory bodies and financial institutions are increasingly focused on ensuring consumer protection and sustainable lending practices within the BNPL sector.

The Finance Ministry's disclosure comes amid growing scrutiny of short-term lending products and their impact on consumer debt levels. Industry observers have noted that while BNPL services offer convenience and flexibility, policymakers remain vigilant about potential risks to financial stability and household debt management among younger consumers.