Digital Economy, Media Literacy, Financial Inclusion, and Economic Growth in Emerging ASEAN Countries

Authors

  • Neng Nur Annisa STIS As-Sa'adah Sukasari Sumedang, Author
  • Nabila Tabassum RIMS, Riphah International University, Islamabad, Pakistan Author

Keywords:

digital economy, financial inclusion, inclusive economic growth, fintech, emerging ASEAN, MSMES, digital transformation, institutional quality

Abstract

Background: The rapid growth of the digital economy in emerging ASEAN countries has opened new opportunities for financial inclusion and economic development. However, digital expansion does not necessarily ensure broader participation in formal financial systems. In this context, media literacy and digital communication have become increasingly important in shaping how individuals access, interpret, and use digital financial services.

Purpose: This study examines the relationships among the digital economy, media literacy, financial inclusion, and economic growth in emerging ASEAN countries. It focuses on the role of financial inclusion as an intermediary mechanism connecting digital transformation and inclusive economic growth, while positioning media literacy and digital communication as enabling factors.

Methods: This study adopts a qualitative descriptive-comparative design based solely on secondary data, including policy documents, institutional reports, and relevant academic literature. The data were analyzed thematically to identify recurring patterns and institutional dynamics influencing digital financial inclusion across selected emerging ASEAN economies. The analysis is informed by Endogenous Growth Theory, Institutional Theory, the Financial Inclusion Framework, and the Media Literacy and Digital Communication Perspective.

Results: The findings suggest that the digital economy alone is insufficient to produce inclusive economic growth. Its contribution becomes more meaningful when supported by financial inclusion, media literacy, and effective digital communication. Digital transformation broadens access to financial services through fintech, mobile banking, and digital payment systems, while media literacy strengthens individuals’ capacity to assess and utilize digital financial information effectively. These relationships vary across countries depending on institutional quality, regulatory adaptability, literacy levels, and infrastructure readiness.

Conclusions: Inclusive economic growth in emerging ASEAN countries depends not only on digital transformation but also on the extent to which such transformation is accompanied by meaningful financial inclusion, strong media literacy, effective digital communication, and adaptive institutional support.

Research Contribution: This study contributes an interdisciplinary framework for understanding how the digital economy relates to economic growth through financial inclusion, while highlighting the enabling roles of media literacy and digital communication in inclusive digital transformation.

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Published

2026-04-05

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Vol. 1 No. 1 (2026)

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