ISSN: 2222-6990
Open access
The administration of small estates in Malaysia is currently hampered by significant inefficiencies, prolonged delays, and family disputes stemming from complex bureaucratic procedures, fragmented records, and a lack of technological integration. This systemic failure contributes to a growing number of frozen assets, which carry serious socio-economic implications and contradict Islamic principles of timely distribution. This study utilizes a phenomenological qualitative approach, conducting semi-structured interviews with four key informants, including officials from the Small Estate Distribution Section (JKPTG) and legal practitioners, to explore the potential of blockchain technology as a transformative solution. Thematic analysis identified four themes: (1) Inefficiencies in the current systems, (2) Documentation and ownership issues, (3) Jurisdictional & Legal Fragmentation and (4) Potential of Blockchain Technology. Findings confirm high acceptance of blockchain among practitioners, noting its potential to create a single, immutable digital vault for asset and heir data, utilize smart contracts for automated distribution, and reduce disputes through enhanced transparency. The study offers a conceptual framework and policy implications vital for successful digital transformation and administrative reform in Malaysia’s inheritance management system.
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