Exploring the Future of FinTech with a Bachelor of Financial Technology degree at Universiti Malaysia Pahang Al-Sultan Abdullah
The financial technology (FinTech) landscape is evolving at an unprecedented pace, driven by groundbreaking advancements in artificial intelligence, blockchain, big data, and digital finance. Globally, the FinTech market is projected to reach a value of USD 698.48 billion by 2030, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 20.3% from 2023 to 2030. This rapid growth underscores its transformative impact across multiple sectors, including banking, insurance, investment, and e-commerce.
FinTech is revolutionising traditional financial services by enabling faster transactions, enhancing accessibility through digital banking, and offering innovative solutions such as decentralised finance (DeFi) and robo-advisors. In Malaysia, the Future Skills Framework Blueprint highlights the importance of equipping the workforce with advanced digital and interdisciplinary skills to meet the demands of an increasingly technology-driven economy. FinTech, being a critical component of this shift, requires expertise that spans financial acumen, technological proficiency, and innovative problem-solving.
This forward-thinking programme aligns closely with the objectives of the Future Skills Framework Blueprint by equipping students with critical skills such as data analytics, cybersecurity, blockchain development, and digital financial innovation. It also fosters adaptability and creative thinking—key competencies highlighted in the blueprint for building a resilient workforce in the face of rapid digital transformation.
This expansion is driven by increasing digital adoption, supportive government initiatives, and a progressive regulatory environment. The Malaysian government has implemented policies to foster FinTech innovation, such as the establishment of the Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC) and the introduction of regulatory sandboxes by Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM) to facilitate the testing of new financial technologies. The digital payments segment is a significant contributor to this growth, with projections indicating a market volume of USD 42.02 billion by 2028, growing at a CAGR of 10.92% from 2024 to 2028. This trend reflects the increasing consumer preference for digital payment methods and the expansion of e-commerce in the region.
Moreover, Malaysia’s FinTech landscape is diverse, encompassing various sectors such as payments, lending, e-wallets, remittances, insurtech, and wealthtech. The country is also a significant player in the Islamic FinTech market, holding 12% of global Sharia-compliant assets, ranking third worldwide.
These developments underscore the importance of equipping professionals with interdisciplinary expertise in finance and technology to meet the evolving demands of the industry. Recognising this need, the Faculty of Industrial Management at Universiti Malaysia Pahang Al-Sultan Abdullah (UMPSA) proudly announces the launch of its Bachelor of Financial Technology with Honours (Bachelor of FinTech - MQA/PA17519) programme, preparing students to thrive in Malaysia's dynamic FinTech sector.
UMPSA’s Bachelor of FinTech programme aligns with Malaysia’s vision of becoming a global FinTech hub. By equipping students with cutting-edge skills and fostering innovation, the programme directly contributes to national economic growth and technological progress. The curriculum also emphasises Malaysia’s unique position in the Islamic finance market, presenting opportunities to integrate Shariah-compliant financial solutions with modern technologies. Set to welcome its first cohort in October 2025, the programme serves as a vital step in preparing future leaders to navigate and shape the complexities of financial technology while contributing to Malaysia’s goal of becoming a global FinTech hub.
To ensure the learning experience is innovative and aligned with industry needs, the programme will be offered in two distinct modes: the coursework mode and the industry mode (3u1i). The 3u1i mode integrates three years of university learning with one year of industrial attachment, ensuring students gain valuable real-world experience. Both pathways are designed to furnish students with a strong theoretical foundation and the hands-on skills necessary for excelling in the FinTech domain. The programme’s curriculum is meticulously designed to reflect the latest industry trends and technological advancements, offering courses such as:
• Financial Technology Innovation: Exploring cutting-edge technologies that are redefining financial services.
• Cybercrime and Investigation: Preparing graduates to tackle the growing challenges of cybersecurity and fraud prevention.
• Blockchain Technology and Digital Currencies: Exploring blockchain fundamentals and its role in the digital economy.
• Data Mining: Utilising data analytics to drive strategic financial decision-making.
• Technical Analysis and Trading Strategies: Developing skills to analyse and navigate financial markets.
These modules empower students to become adaptive, forward-thinking professionals capable of addressing the ever-changing needs of the financial sector.
The FinTech industry has revolutionised traditional financial services by introducing innovations like digital payments, robo-advisors, and decentralised finance (DeFi). This shift has created a pressing need for talent who understands the interplay between finance, technology, and regulation. Graduates of the Bachelor of FinTech programme will not only meet this need but will also play a pivotal role in shaping the future of financial services. The programme prepares students for diverse career opportunities in:
• Digital Banking and Financial Services: Driving innovation in payment systems and financial product design.
• Investment and Capital Markets: Enhancing strategies for asset management and trading.
• Cybersecurity and ICT Solutions: Strengthening financial systems against emerging digital threats.
• FinTech Startups: Fostering entrepreneurial ventures in the rapidly growing FinTech ecosystem.
As one of the pioneers in FinTech education, Universiti Malaysia Pahang Al-Sultan Abdullah (UMPSA) provides a platform to nurture competent graduates equipped to face the challenges of the future financial sector. With a comprehensive curriculum aligned with industry needs, this programme not only prepares students for promising careers but also contributes to the nation’s economic and technological advancement. Through its innovative approach, UMPSA plays a vital role in shaping a generation of FinTech professionals capable of driving positive change on a global scale.
For more information, please visit https://fim.umpsa.edu.my.
Keyword/tag
Program Sarjana Muda Teknologi Kewangan, FinTech
Director (Rating and Sustainability Division), Centre for Strategic & Quality Management (PPSK) and Lecturer at the Faculty of Industrial Management (FPI), UMPSA.
E-mail: irene@umpsa.edu.my
Head of Programme (Fintech), Faculty of Industrial Management (FPI), UMPSA.
E-mail: norwazli@umpsa.edu.my
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