PETALING JAYA: National para athlete Siti Noor Iasah Ariffin has a two-pronged mission at the Tokyo Paralympics.

After 16 years of involvement in athletics, Siti is hoping to finish her career on a high with a Paralympic medal.

Coming back with one will also be a nice way for the country to usher in Merdeka. The 32-year-old will run in the women’s 400m T20 (learning disabilities) heats on Aug 30 and hopefully to get into the final scheduled the next evening.

“Tokyo will likely be my last appearance at a multi-sport competition.

“I don’t think I will still be around for the 2024 Paris edition.

“I am 32 now and have been in sports for the last 16 years. I think it’s enough as I want to focus on my family after this,” said Siti, who is also the reigning Asian Para Games champion and record holder in the event.

Despite going in with the reputation as the Asian ranked No. 1, Siti admitted it’s going to be tough going up against the world’s best in the current situation made harder by the Covid-19 pandemic.

“Winning a medal will not be easy as I have not gone for competitions since Covid-19 struck early last year. I am not sure about my rivals’ form.

“My goal is to improve my personal best and hopefully, that is good enough for me to finish on the podium.