Fintech Samir Supports BI's QRIS-Based Credit Scoring Initiative

Enhancing Credit Assessment in Online Lending

PT Sahabat Mikro Fintek (Samir), a prominent fintech company, has expressed support for Bank Indonesia's proposed use of QRIS transaction history in credit scoring for the online lending industry. According to Andreas, Samir's Chief Technology Officer, this development is seen as positive for enriching risk assessment practices in the fintech sector.

Balancing Innovation and Prudence

While welcoming the new data source, Andreas emphasized the need for careful implementation. Key considerations include establishing clear data standards, ensuring robust data protection measures, and confirming infrastructure readiness. "The principle of prudence remains our priority," Andreas stated, highlighting the importance of maintaining a balanced approach between innovation and risk management.

Current Credit Assessment Practices

Samir currently employs a comprehensive approach to evaluating borrower creditworthiness, combining factors such as:

1. Payment history
2. Product usage patterns
3. Income stability
4. Financial behavior indicators

This multi-faceted assessment helps maintain risk quality while protecting consumer interests. Andreas noted that while QRIS data could provide valuable additional insights, particularly for micro-businesses, its accuracy can vary across different segments. Therefore, it should be used in conjunction with other variables to avoid biased assessments.

Challenges and Implementation Strategy

Andreas outlined several challenges associated with implementing QRIS transaction history in credit scoring, including:

1. Data standardization issues
2. Variations in user behavior
3. Ensuring personal data protection

To address these challenges, Samir plans to adopt a gradual integration approach, conduct rigorous model validation, and ensure full compliance with regulatory requirements. This strategy aims to balance the benefits of new data sources with the need for security and accuracy in credit assessments.

Bank Indonesia's Vision for Digital Credit Scoring

Bank Indonesia's Deputy Governor, Juda Agung, recently revealed plans to utilize QRIS digital footprints as a basis for credit scoring, particularly for micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs). This initiative is supported by artificial intelligence (AI) technology, which can process the digital transaction data generated through QRIS. Juda Agung described AI as a "very intelligent assistant" that can significantly enhance financial inclusion by expanding access to credit for underserved segments.