Impulsive online purchasing: A challenge to Islamic values of simplicity

ONLINE shopping has become a normal part of modern life. With the rapid growth of digital technology and the widespread use of smartphones, people no longer need to go to physical stores to shop.

Today, many types of goods can be bought easily with just a few clicks on a phone and delivered straight to the doorstep in a short time. This convenience is also supported by various marketing strategies such as big discounts, flash sales, free delivery and limited-time promotions that are always available on e-commerce platforms.

Although this makes shopping easier and saves time, it has also led to a growing issue known as impulsive purchasing. Impulsive purchasing happens when people buy something suddenly without planning and thinking carefully about whether they really need it.

In many cases, these decisions are influenced more by emotions, advertisements and online shopping pressure rather than logical thinking.

In daily life, this situation can be clearly seen when people buy things they do not really need.

For example, some people buy new clothes even though they already have enough, some collect accessories or gadgets just because they are on sale and others buy items even when their needs are already fulfilled. This shows that buying behaviour is slowly changing from needs-based to want-based.

If this habit is not controlled, it can affect a person's financial management. Even though impulsive purchases may give temporary satisfaction, the long-term effects are often negative.

These include wasting money, increasing unnecessary expenses and buying items that are eventually not used. This can affect financial stability and overall well-being.

In Islam, managing wealth is seen as a responsibility (amanah) that must be handled properly. Islam teaches the principle of simplicity (wasatiyyah) in all aspects of life, including spending. In Surah al-Furqan, verse 67, Allah explains that "believers are those who do not spend excessively and do not be stingy, but stay balanced between the two."

Allah also warns against wasteful behaviour. In Surah al-Isra' verse 27, it is mentioned that those who waste are like the "brothers of devils". This shows that wastefulness is not only about money, but also related to moral values and a Muslim's responsibility in using the blessings given by Allah.

However, in today's world, practising simplicity is becoming more difficult. E-commerce platforms use strong marketing techniques such as "limited stock", "only a few items left", and "offer ends soon".

These messages create a sense of urgency and push customers to make quick decisions without time to think properly.

Besides that, social media also plays a big role in increasing this issue. People are often exposed to posts showing new products, trending items, and attractive lifestyles. Even though not everything shown is realistic, continuous exposure can influence how people see their needs. As a result, many purchases are made not because of real needs, but because of trends and social influence.

If this continues, it can lead to an unhealthy spending culture in society. People may become more emotional in their buying decisions rather than thinking rationally. In the long term, this can affect not only personal finances but also household financial stability and quality of life.

To overcome this issue, financial education based on Islamic values should be strengthened from an early stage. Parents and family members play an important role in teaching good spending habits through guidance. People who learn about budgeting, prioritising needs, and avoiding waste early in life are more likely to manage their money wisely in the future.

In addition, Muslims should also develop self-awareness in their spending habits. Islam encourages muhasabah, which means self-reflection before making decisions. Delaying a purchase for a while can help reduce impulsive buying and give time to think whether the item is really needed.

In conclusion, impulsive online purchasing is a growing issue in today's digital world. Although online shopping brings many benefits, it also requires self-control and discipline in spending. Islam has already provided clear guidance through the principle of simplicity (wasatiyyah) and the warning against wastefulness.

Therefore, practising wasatiyyah in daily life is very important so that people can spend wisely and responsibly. When this is done, it not only benefits individuals but also helps improve family financial stability and the well-being of society.

Nurhanis Syahirah Binti Hafizi is a Universiti Malaysia Terengganu (UMT) student.The views expressed in this article are the author's own and do not necessarily reflect those of Sinar Daily.