STRATEGI BANK DALAM MENINGKATKAN INKLUSI KEUANGAN MASYARAKAT MADURA

Abstract

This study aims to identify factors influencing financial inclusion in Madura and assess banking strategies for increasing financial participation, including partnerships with FinTech, the development of micro-waqf products, and financial education programs. The research background is based on the low level of financial inclusion in Madura, which is below the national average, with the majority of the population still relying on informal financial services. This study used a qualitative approach, distributing open-ended questionnaires to 120 respondents in three main Madura regencies (Bangkalan, Sumenep, and Pamekasan) and conducting semi-structured interviews with 12 bank branch managers. The data were analyzed using thematic analysis. The results revealed five main themes: (1) limited physical accessibility of branch and ATM networks, (2) the high demand for digitalization of services, especially for MSMEs, (3) public trust in sharia products as an opportunity for portfolio development, (4) low digital financial literacy, which hinders the adoption of modern services, and (5) the need for local policy support. The study's conclusions emphasize that an effective banking strategy must be multifaceted, encompassing the development of mobile service units, collaboration with local fintech companies, sustainable digital financial literacy programs, segmented Sharia product development, and policy advocacy with local governments. Implementing this strategy is expected to increase financial participation among Madurese, expand the customer base, and support inclusive economic growth in the archipelago.