Hong Kong leader Leung Chun-ying has suggested a new recreational activity for workers. Writing on his blog, he proposed that workers go swimming in the Central waterfront.

According to ocal newspaper The Standard, Chief Executive Leung Chun-ying explained the idea of swimming in the Central waterfront as a recreational activity for workers during their lunch or free time. On his blog, he claims that the waters have leisure and aesthetic values.

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Apart from swimming, Leung also suggested workers could go fishing - taking inspiration from the three angling zones idea he mentioned during this year's policy address.

Leung stated during the address that the Leisure and Cultural Services Department will set up the angling zones as early as next year in the following areas: Tsing Yi, Tai Pao and the Central waterfront. The waterfront near the International Finance Centre in Central is a perfect venue for swimming or fishing after lunch, Leung said. He noted that these activities are good a substitute for going to the gym.

While they sound good, the Hong Kong leader's ideas have not not welcomed by some.

According to the BBC, Victoria Harbour is so polluted that it could take 20 years to make it safe for swimming. At the moment, anyone who dares to jump into the water will face high chances of getting infected with E. coli and salmonella.

These sentiments were echoed by Harbourfront Commission member Paul Zimmerman. He noted that although the suggestion is good, it is not feasible. According to Zimmerman, the harbor traffic and water quality will make it entirely unsafe.

Critics say there is also a health risk in swimming with a full stomach. More so, anglers are not so keen with the idea as well. According to one bait shop owner, fish are hard to catch at noontime because of heat and noise. He added that fishing takes more time than the 45 minutes left for lunch breaks.

What do you think of Leung's ideas? Share us your thoughts by leaving your comments below.

TagsHong Kong, Chief Executive Leung Chun-ying, Central waterfront, Victoria Harbour