KUCHING: The hornbill design on Affin Bank's Kenyalang debit card for Sarawakians should not have become an issue, says Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah.
The state Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Minister said the bank had good intentions in displaying a hornbill on the card, regardless of the species depicted.
"I think what Affin has done is something good. Why must you narrow it down to this hornbill or that hornbill?
"This is making a mountain out of a molehill," he said after the opening ceremony of the Sarawak Legislative Assembly sitting on Monday (May 19).
The card's design was criticised by DAP's Pending assemblyman Violet Yong last week, who claimed it did not depict the rhinoceros hornbill, Sarawak's state bird.
Instead, she said it showed a great hornbill, which is not found in Sarawak.
However, Abdul Karim said there was no need to call attention to the hornbill species as the bird generally represents Sarawak.
"The bird on the card is a hornbill, so what is the issue? Personally, I see no need to change the design," he said.
Earlier on Monday, Affin clarified that the Sarawak state crest - which features a hornbill and the state flag - inspired the Kenyalang debit card design.
"The design featured is a symbolic creation, thoughtfully blending elements of the state crest as a tribute to Sarawak's rich cultural legacy," it said in a statement.
The bank also thanked the public for their support and interest in the Kenyalang card.
"Our priority is to ensure that our creativity and designs genuinely reflect what matters to the community we serve. Your feedback guides us and we remain committed to celebrating Sarawak with authenticity, pride, and respect," it added.
The card was introduced last month as part of Affin's Kenyalang savings account for Sarawakians.
The Sarawak government currently holds a 31.25% stake in the bank following its acquisition of shares from the Armed Forces Fund Board (LTAT) and Boustead Holdings Berhad last year.
