Persepsi Pengguna terhadap Pentingnya Sertifikasi Syariah dalam Keuangan Digital Islam

Abstract

The rapid development of Islamic digital finance requires service providers not only to offer technological convenience but also to ensure compliance with Sharia principles. However, limited attention has been paid to how users interpret Sharia certification in digital financial services. This study explores users’ perceptions of the meaning, importance, and role of Sharia certification in the use of Islamic digital financial services. An exploratory qualitative design was employed. Participants were selected through purposive sampling based on their experience using Islamic digital financial services and their knowledge of Sharia certification or governance. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews and analyzed thematically using open coding, axial coding, and theme development. Four major themes emerged. First, Sharia certification was perceived as a form of religious assurance that provides users with a sense of security and confidence in conducting financial transactions. Second, it served as an indicator of institutional credibility that strengthens trust in service providers. Third, users generally had limited understanding of the certification process and underlying Sharia governance mechanisms. Fourth, Sharia certification tended to be a secondary consideration compared with usability, security, and service quality. These findings indicate that Sharia certification functions not only as formal evidence of Sharia compliance but also as an institutional signal that shapes user perceptions and trust. The findings imply that service providers should strengthen transparency and user education regarding certification procedures, the role of Sharia Supervisory Boards, and Sharia governance mechanisms.