'It's okay because it goes back to the coaches, and they're more or less responsible for where we are today, so they deserve the credit too.

'As for youth development, 6 per cent is not really a big deal, especially since it's for a good cause.'

ZACH ONG, 17, SEA Games 100m backstroke champion

'The coaches definitely deserve the 9 per cent. Because when we do well, people look at the swimmers, but they don't recognise the coaches along with the swimmers.

'The SSA has helped us a lot by sending us for preparatory meets, so this 6 per cent is a way to give back by helping the younger ones.'

QUAH TING WEN, 15, SEA Games 400m individual medley winner

'A lot of money has been invested in the swimmers by the SSA.

'So, I don't think it's an unfair ask, that when they start to win, they appreciate the coaches and put back a little bit into youth development that made them successful.

'Besides, we're talking about an insignificant amount of money. The top swimmers worldwide have coaches and managers who get a whole lot more than 9 per cent.'

JOHN DEMPSEY, SSA's coaching director