THE swimming industry may have to wait a little longer before returning to the pool.
Swimming and pool activities are still barred from recommencing, although the government has given the green light to several other sports to resume from June 15.
To date, national swimmer Welson Sim, who is under the Road to Tokyo (RTT) Olympics programme, is the only one allowed to undergo training under controlled conditions at the National Aquatic Centre in Bukit Jalil.
Yesterday, the Sports Ministry held an engagement session with the National Sports Council (NSC) and various stakeholders in the swimming industry.
One of the key points discussed was suggestions for the government to allow the reopening of swimming pools gradually — allowing national, state and club swimmers to resume training under strict standard operating procedures.
In a statement, the Sports Ministry said they had taken note of the suggestions yesterday and will present the case to the National Security Council on June 18.
While the wait continues, Amateur Swimming Union of Malaysia (Asum) secretary Mae Chen believes the discussion with the various stakeholders in the industry is a positive step to reopening the pools.
"I am relieved with the outcome of this meeting. The last few days have all been about getting the standard operating procedures (SOP) right," said Mae yesterday.
"Today's meeting was more an engaging discussion between the government agencies and the industry players like swimming schools, state associations and clubs.
"While our SOPs have been rather comprehensive, especially for competitive training, we needed the input from the industry people so that the ministry and the NSC can present a more solid case to the higher authorities next week.
"Of course, this waiting period is the most stressful but I believe that this is a very positive step forward.
"At the least, I believe that the Health Ministry should approve the reopening for competitive training as well as controlled and structured swimming programmes."
Meanwhile, Mae said US-based national swimmer Phee Jinq En will return to Malaysia next month.
The 22-year-old, who bagged two gold at last year's Philippines Sea Games, is now in Indiana.
"Jinq En will come home. Once she's done the mandatory swab test and quarantine period, we will reinsert her into the RTT programme. She will train under national coach Chris Martin."