Letter to the Editor
By Jason Teo
This article serves as a follow-up to my previous piece titled ‘[Letter to the Editor] Hornbill on AFFIN card not Sarawak’s emblem, says zoologist’. I have noticed that some individuals have misquoted me or rephrased my earlier statements to make me sound more aggressive, which I do not endorse. For those of you who want to know my original message and tone, please refer to link above. Additionally, I have seen my previous article being used as political ammunitions, which is something I also do not support. It is precisely because of this growing misinterpretation that I feel compelled to write this follow-up article.
Let’s Take a Step Back
While it is true that the hornbill illustration on the Affin Kenyalang Visa Debit Card is inaccurate, it is important to note that such inaccuracies are not unique to Affin Bank. Over the few years, I have encountered many similar mistakes made by various organisations and political parties across the spectrum. I have even come across instances where the Toco Toucans (Ramphastos toco) were used to represent our Rhinoceros Hornbill (Buceros rhinoceros). These observations were what initially motivated me to start the educational campaign to share with Sarawakians (and even Malaysians) on how to correctly identify our State Emblem.
My key point is this: Yes, the illustration depicts a Great Hornbill (Buceros bicornis) with a modified casque which cannot be found in Sarawak, but mistakes are part of being human. Let us acknowledge the error, but also extend understanding. Let’s take a step back and refocus our efforts.
We have lost the plot
I truly believe that we all began this conversation with good intentions, namely to prevent further confusion on how our Kenyalang looks like. However, somewhere along the way, the issue became highly emotional and, regrettably, politicised. I am confident that AFFIN Bank, along with many others, has received our message loud and clear. Plus, I also think AffinBank bank may have reasons that is out of their control that resulted them not being able to change the hornbill illustration. If our goal was to raise awareness about the importance of using the correct hornbill, I would argue that we have already succeeded. Therefore, it is time to take a step back, reflect, and move forward in a constructive manner.
To AffinBank
Please know that I hold no ill will toward your organisation. I have been advocating for awareness of our State Emblem’s accurate depiction long before this issue gained political traction. My previous article was written solely to address the confusion that arose. I have individuals approaching me, seeking clarification on the appearance of our State Emblem, often while referencing the illustration on the AFFIN Kenyalang Visa Debit Card, which was also being publicly defended by individuals of influence.
It was never my intention to shame your organisation, and I sincerely apologise if my article contributed to any uproar. That said, I would like to respectfully and earnestly request that you avoid describing the illustration as an artistic adaptation inspired by Jata Negeri Sarawak and the Sarawak Flag, for two reasons:
- Brand Integrity: I will not elaborate it here because I know some people will use it for political purposes, but those with some ecological knowledge and are internet savvy could easily refute that claim with substantial evidence.
- Public Confusion: As a highly respected and influential institution, your words carry great weight. It is vital that your statements do not unintentionally lead to further confusion among Sarawakians.
I trust that the message has been clearly received and that, moving forward, AFFIN Bank will use the correct hornbill in future materials.
To politicians
I respectfully ask politicians to not use this as political ammunitions any further. I understand that we both agree that using the correct State Emblem is important, but the current stalemate appears to have made it challenging to rectify any existing inaccuracies. The awareness has been effectively raised. Let us now take a step back, allow tensions to cool, and find a way forward together.
To Everyday Sarawakians
I understand that many of us feel deeply passionate about the political parties we support. At the same time, I truly believe we all want what is best for Sarawak. Our shared priority should be to educate fellow Sarawakians (and even Malaysians) on how to correctly identify our beloved Kenyalang. Unfortunately, the discourse has shifted from educational to political. Thus, let us channel our energy back into raising awareness through learning and teaching, rather than continuing to direct discontent towards AFFIN Bank.
So once again, I humbly ask, let us take a step back and let the dust settle. Let us return to the spirit of education. After that, let us move forward together, informed and united!
This is the personal opinion of the author and does not necessarily represent the views of DayakDaily. Letters to the Editor may be lightly edited for clarity.
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