Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia – Leading Malaysian swim academy, Sailfish Swim Academy, is diving headfirst into social responsibility with the launch of their new Super Saver program. This initiative aims to make swimming lessons accessible to underprivileged children in the Klang Valley area, ensuring financial limitations don’t hinder their ability to learn this vital life skill.
The program closely aligns with the Ministry of Youth and Sports’ KLAS Renang initiative, which emphasizes basic swim training for children. Recognizing the importance of water safety, Sailfish Swim Academy is dedicated to expanding access to this crucial skill, particularly for children from low-income families (B40).
Founded by Head Coach and SEA Games medalist Ryan Kee Zhen Hao, the academy’s core mission has always been to prevent child drownings through quality lessons and water safety education. Now, they’re taking a step further, focusing on inclusion and ensuring all children have the opportunity to learn and enjoy the benefits of swimming.
“Every child deserves a chance to learn how to swim, no matter their family’s background,” said Ryan. “Swimming isn’t just about survival; it’s fantastic for building confidence, discipline, and overall physical fitness. These affordable lessons aim to level the playing field, giving all children the chance to enjoy swimming and stay safe in the water.”
Significantly discounted compared to the regular monthly fee of RM270, the Super Saver classes are priced at just RM120. Open to children aged 5 to 16, the program boasts weekly sessions held at prestigious locations like Tropicana, Berjaya, and Bukit Kemuning clubs. These establishments have generously offered their facilities in support of this community-focused initiative.
Currently, around 100 students are enrolled in the Super Saver classes, but Sailfish Swim Academy has ambitious plans to expand. With an additional 400 slots opening, they aim to reach a wider range of underprivileged children.
But affordability isn’t the only goal. The academy also hopes to uncover hidden swimming talents through these accessible classes. By providing opportunities to children who might otherwise miss out, they hope to cultivate the next generation of Malaysian swimming champions.
“Unearthing hidden talent is a key objective,” added Ethan Chew Yizheng, Managing Director of Sailfish Swim Academy. “We believe exceptional talent can come from anywhere, but only if we provide the right opportunities and open doors to everyone, regardless of background. The recent Olympics showcased Malaysia’s immense potential in various sports, including swimming. With the right support system, we know countless young swimmers – maybe even future Olympians – are waiting to be discovered.”
To further their outreach, Sailfish Swim Academy has collaborated with several schools, including Tahfiz institutions and schools catering to children with special needs. They understand the importance of inclusivity and strive to create a supportive learning environment for all students, nurturing confident and capable young swimmers regardless of their background.
Read More: World-Renowned Oceanman Swim Competition Returns to Stunning Long Beach, Vietnam
Recognizing the need for broader accessibility, Sailfish Swim Academy welcomes collaboration with public and government agencies. Their ultimate goal is to bridge the gap for aspiring swimmers across Malaysia.
Currently serving approximately 1,500 students per month, the academy offers a range of classes from beginner to competitive levels, catering to children as young as 4 months old and up to 17 years. To accommodate their growing student base, Sailfish is expanding its reach by launching classes at Gamuda Cove, with registrations opening in September 2024.
For more information about Sailfish Swim Academy and how to enroll your child, visit their website at https://www.sailfishsa.com/.
