Future behavior in <i>waqf</i> digitalization: integrating UTAUT and DIT theories

Purpose This paper aims to explore the impact of digitalisation on waqf activities, focussing on blockchain, crowdfunding and artificial intelligence to predict future trends in digitalisation within waqf activities. Design/methodology/approach The study used a quantitative approach to combine the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) and Diffusion of Innovation Theory (DIT) to comprehensively analyze the elements that affect the adoption of digital technology. SmartPLS software conducted the data analysis after collecting the data using SPSS. In this study, 310 respondents comprising Muslims who contribute to waqf were collected. Findings This research provides important insights into the elements influencing future behavior and can help policymakers promote and facilitate the digitalisation of waqf activities, not only in Malaysia but also in similar situations worldwide. Research limitations/implications Analysis indicated that four hypotheses were validated, implying that effort expectancy, compatibility, observability and trialability are significant determinants affecting intention. The findings suggest significant potential for further research. This paper delineates numerous methodological challenges and concerns while proposing recommendations for further research. Future research could use additional search phrases and engines not incorporated in this study to provide a more comprehensive overview. This study primarily concentrates on the applications of waqf development, digitalisation, blockchain, crowdfunding and artificial intelligence. Practical implications The four hypotheses regarding facilitating condition, performance expectation, relative advantage and social influence were not supported as they were found to have no significant impact on intention. For practitioners, based on the findings, it can give some insight into digitalisation’s influence on the intention of contributing to waqf in society. As for the researchers, there could be some ideas to study other than the factors mentioned in this study, as well as the supporting literature for their studies. Originality/value This paper provides useful insights on how emerging technology can potentially disrupt the traditional waqf landscape. It emphasizes the unique contributions of digitalization in improving transparency and accessibility, blockchain in ensuring security and trust, crowdfunding in mobilizing resources and artificial intelligence in optimizing decision-making processes.