I refer to the Malaysiakini report Chua's downfall: Who's the 'black hand'?

The sex scandal of Health Minister Dr Chua Soi Lek is not only very unfortunate but distressing as well. It may be a personal affair which we have no right to probe. But a wrong cannot become right just because it is personal and private. Moreover he is no ordinary person but a senior minister and a doctor who yields tremendous influence on the public, especially the younger generation.

Instead of being a shining example for the younger generation, unfortunately his adulterous behaviour has become an example of what our children should not follow. Chua must be commended for his courage to admit his wrongdoing and accepting the consequences. He did the right thing by resigning from all his public posts.

Not many politicians of his status may be willing to do that. Unfortunately, instead of showing remorse for his actions, he seems to have reacted with anger for being caught for his misbehaviour. Politicians must realise they are put there for a purpose – to serve the people. The people do not expect them to be saints but at least they should not to indulge in activities that bring shame to the posts they are holding.

The cabinet, being the highest governing body, should take the lead in paving the way for good morals and values. not just by words. but in actions as well. If people in high places do not behave by set norms, how can we expect the ordinary citizen to do so? What is happening to our country that is supposed to be religious and moral? Have immoral activities become an accepted way of life? Have illicit sex and adultery - like corruption - become an accepted way of life?

Of late, immoral sexual activities, crime and corruption are becoming so rampant that it is threatening to become a norm. Although we say they are evil and even sinful, we seem to contradict this by glorifying those (especially the rich, powerful and glamorous) who indulge in them.

Despite their immoral lives, these people instead become role models for our children which is really a deplorable. It is ironical that such immoral activities if committed by ordinary people are frowned at but glorified if indulged by the rich and powerful.

As parents, teachers, clergy members, elders and community leaders, we have the obligation to instill the moral values that are badly lacking in our children. Let us ask ourselves: ‘Are we the right role models for our children? Are we showing them the right examples in life?’ If we cannot lead them by example, who else can? How can we expect them to become better humans if they cannot find someone to show them the way?

This ministerial sex scandal is an unhealthy start for the new year. It is time for Malaysians to seriously think about whom they are going to elect as their representatives in the coming general elections. Do you want the immoral and corrupt to decide our destiny? Aren’t we mature enough to choose the right people to lead the nation? It is all in our hands and we must act wisely.