PETALING JAYA: It is not a good idea to use hotel swimming pools for swimming lessons says the Malaysian Association of Hotels (MAH).

Its chief executive officer Yap Lip Seng said safety is a big concern when it comes to allowing schools access to a hotel’s swimming pool.

“Most, if not all, swimming pools in hotels are meant for leisure.

"Which means they are not built with the needed size, shape, depth and design for swimming lessons, especially not for groups of children,” he told The Star.

“While there are hotels that are currently already providing their facilities for selected school activities on an ad hoc basis as part of their corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives, most hotel swimming pools are not designed for swimming lessons, especially for children.”

Yap was commenting on Education Minister’s Dr Maszlee Malik’s suggestion that hotels allow schools to use their swimming pools as part of their CSR efforts.

Yap added that there are also “accessibility concerns” as hotel facilities are paid for by tourists and hence dedicated for their exclusive use.

“From a tourism point of view, it could pose a negative impression on tourists,” he continued.

However, he applauded the ministry’s initiative and added: “we are open to explore possibilities that includes the private sector, not just hotels.”

“We do hope the ministry will study the idea carefully with practicability and safety of school children as priority.”

On Wednesday, Dr Maszlee said that this would enable more students to learn not only how to swim. It would also boost life-saving skills and safety awareness among them.

The suggestion drew flak from the public, with many questioning who would be responsible for the students’ safety.