The evolution of the Internet has shifted from centralised to decentralised systems, particularly after the financial crisis in 2008. The Internet disrupts traditional financial systems and the consequent shift towards Blockchain Technology (BCT) for more transparent and accountable business practices. It outlines BCT’s origins and transformative potential in various domains. Thus, this study aims to investigate challenges in BCT adoption in various domains. This study adopted a bibliometric analysis based on the data obtained from the Scopus database. Based on the keywords used, which are related to BCT adoption in the article title, the study obtains 229 documents for further analysis. Various tools have been employed, such as Microsoft Excel to conduct the frequency analysis and VOSviewer for data visualisation analysis. This study reports the results using standard bibliometric indicators such as publication year, document type, source type, source title, languages, subject area, keywords analysis, geographical distribution, authorship, active institutions, and citation analysis. The analysis reveals that studies on BCT integration with the Internet of Things (IoT) suggest the highest cites followed by BCT adoption challenges. Since 2021, there has been a rapid accumulation of citations, highlighting the ongoing relevance and interest in BCT across diverse fields. Indonesia leads in academic contributions to BCT, while the United States excels in citation impact. Notably, China, Australia, Jordan, and Malaysia are interested in adopting BCT in Asia. In Europe, the United Kingdom stands out alongside Romania and Belgium for their commitment to the study as well. Prominent authors and keywords highlight BCT’s integration with IoT and supply chain. Findings underscore global academic engagement with BCT challenges and applications, offering a foundation for future research on practical hurdles, regulations, and technological intersections. Blockchain is just one of many IR4.0 technologies that will enhance governance when coupled with Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Big Data Analytics. Future research should focus deeper on practical challenges, regulations, and intersections of BCT with other technologies, building upon the findings of this analysis.

Purpose: This study aims to investigate discrepancies in e-payment collection processes related to Service Level Agreements (SLAs) and explore the feasibility of using Blockchain Technology and Smart Contracts (BCT-SCs) to enhance SLA monitoring and penalty enforcement on e-payment collection at the Malaysian Government Agency. Design/Methodology/Approach: An in-depth qualitative case study approach will be employed, utilizing the Technological-Organizational-Environmental (TOE) framework to guide the investigation. Findings: Recent data from Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM) indicates a significant increase in e-payment transactions, reflecting a growing reliance on digital financial services among Malaysian consumers. However, discrepancies in SLA adherence, as highlighted by the Auditor General of Malaysia in 2022, pose challenges to the efficiency and effectiveness of epayment systems. The study identifies the potential of BCT-SCs to improve SLA management, offering features such as decentralization, immutability, and real-time processing to enhance speed, security, and transparency. Research Limitations/Implications: The study is limited by its focus on a single case study at the Malaysian Government Agency. Generalizing findings to other contexts may require caution. Practical Implications: This research offers valuable insights for policymakers, practitioners, and industry stakeholders, providing guidance for the adoption of BCT-SCs to optimize epayment collection processes. By addressing SLA management gaps and promoting accountability, the study aims to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of the e-payment ecosystem. Originality/Value: This study contributes to the existing literature by examining the application of BCT-SCs in enhancing SLA monitoring and penalty enforcement in e-payment collection processes. The research provides a comprehensive analysis of the challenges and opportunities associated with SLA management in the context of digital financial services, offering practical solutions to improve accountability and optimize e-payment systems.