Malaysiakinis subscription service has encountered numerous technical problems since its launch on Feb 1. While the websites new look has been well received, some readers were not able to register themselves because of bugs in the new system.

We apologise for the difficulties that our readers have faced, said chief executive officer Premesh Chandran. Our technology team has been working round the clock to solve these problems. Due to the complex nature of the system and our limited resources, some glitches are taking longer to resolve.

There were also complaints from some readers about not receiving their passwords or not being able to log on to the website. Others have complained that their computers stall every time they visit malaysiakini.

Chandran advised all readers who have yet to receive passwords to click on the Forgot your password box which will trigger an e-mail to the reader with a new password.

There were problems with some of our scripts which we have now fixed. However, readers with older Internet browsers, especially those using older versions of Netscape, will need to update to newer versions, he said.

3,000 registered

Despite the teething problems, more than 3,000 readers have registered to date.

The response has been very encouraging, said Chandran. Our loyal readers are quite prepared to support malaysiakini. Were also very encouraged by the generosity of some readers who have decided to sponsor others. We are confident of hitting our target of 10,000 subscribers by the middle of the year.

Malaysiakini has been providing independent news for free since its launch in November 1999. Under the current subscription system, readers can continue to read the news and letters sections for free, but registration is required for the latter.

Readers who have problems registering or logging in can send an e-mail to subscribe@malaysiakini.com.