“There are mechanisms in place to ensure that all swimmers have the opportunity to qualify for big meets within the confines of the rules and regulations that govern our sport,” it said in a statement on Facebook today.

MSF explained that the selection was under the jurisdiction of state associations, and that the swimmers, coaches and relevant bodies involved were aware of such rules.

“Under Fina (Federation Internationale de Natation), the world body for the aquatic discipline, there are no provisions for a national ‘masters team’.

“The swimmer can choose to represent an affiliated club with a national federation worldwide at Fina-sanctioned events,” it said.

“Masters” swimmers usually compete in older age group categories, which begin from 25-29 and increase in five-year increments.

“Therefore, the issue of discrimination does not arise,” the MSF added.

The federation’s response follows a recent incident where national swimmer Cindy Ong alleged that she had been told she could no longer compete in the Malaysia Open swimming championships, despite meeting the merit requirements.

The national meet — set to be held from March 4 to 6 — will serve as the final qualifying event for this year’s SEA Games in Vietnam. Ong was seeking qualification for the 50m butterfly event.

Ong previously told a news portal that there was an arbitrary barrier that prevented swimmers above the age of 25 from participating in certain competitions.