Training in aikido has helped this Malaysian stay safe, happy and healthy

Raja Sazita started her aikido training more than 20 years ago and over the years has progressed to be a 4th dan black belt exponent. Aikido, she says, is a good sport for women of any age. — Photo: LOW LAY PHON/The Star

It was early in her aikido journey that Raja Sazita Raja Siffudin realised just how practical (and effective) the martial art is as a tool for self-defence.

She was out with her friends when a young man “tried to be funny” – he wrapped his arm around her and got too close for comfort and Raja Sazita wasn’t having any of that.