AI APPLICATIONS FOR FIQH RULINGS IN ISLAMIC BANKS: SHARĪʿAH COMMITTEE ACCEPTANCE

Purpose — The objective of this paper is to study acceptance of the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in the fiqh ruling process by Shariah committee (SC) members of Islamic banks in Malaysia.

Design/Methodology/Approach — This is a qualitative study using focus group interviews with ten SC members from different Islamic banks in Malaysia. Following the interviews, a thematic analysis of the transcribed data was conducted using computer-assisted qualitative data analysis software (CAQDAS).

Findings — The participants were generally receptive towards the utilisation of AI tools in the fiqh ruling process at Islamic banks. The participants recognise the potential of AI smart assistants for improving the efficiency and effectiveness of the fiqh ruling process. However, they raised some concerns and expectations that need to be addressed.

Originality/Value — The novelty of this research comes from sourcing first-hand perspectives of SC members of Islamic banks in Malaysia. Being the end users of AI systems for the fiqh rulings in Islamic banking, it is important to understand their perceptions, concerns and expectations.

Research Limitations/Implications — The size of the focus group was limited to ten participants to optimise group size and composition in order to allow adequate participation by each group member. Further sampling from more SC members may elicit additional findings.

Practical Implications — The first-hand views from the target users provide valuable input for initiatives related to the development of AI systems for the fiqh ruling process in Islamic banking.