Malaysiakini compares the key news and views in major newspapers. What is today's agenda for the English, Malay, Tamil and Chinese papers?

Front page

English newspapers

New Straits Times, Star and the Sun highlighted the appointment of Abdul Hamid Mohamad as the new chief justice while former Umno legal adviser Zaki Azmi - who was made federal court judge three months ago - is now the Judiciary's No 2 as Court of Appeal president.

NST also front-paged a global survey which showed that 74 percent of Malaysians felt that the elections in the country are free and fair while another 69 percent felt that the people are well represented by the government.

Star meanwhile highlighted the launch of a hotline that is meant for victims of domestic violence, child abuse and natural disasters.

The news of the additional five Hindu Rights Action Force (Hindraf) supporters being charged for attempted murder, bringing the total to 31, were also highlighted in the major English dailies.

Malay newspapers

Utusan Malaysia and Berita Harian both front-paged the appointments of the new chief justice and Court of Appeal president. Berita Harian also highlighted the same survey carried in the NST.

Utusan also quoted Pahang Menteri Besar Adnan Yaakob on its front-page report as denying he was marrying a second wife. He said the rumour is being circulated to destroy his political career.

Tamil newspapers

Malaysia Nanban, Tamil Nesan and Makkal Osai all reported on the hearing involving 31 Hindraf protesters yesterday.

Tamil Nesan also had a report on the Consumer Association of Penang urging Indian Malaysians not to waste their money and time by attending a concert to be held by Tamil movie stars from India later this month.

Editorial

The Sun lauded the Bar Council's decision to call off its Sunday's human rights day march, calling it a "brave, important and responsible" decision.

NST called on US president George W Bush to seize the opportunity to open direct and unconditional talks with Iran to resolve the nuclear crisis and other issues.

Utusan hoped the appointment of the new chief justice will restore the judiciary's integrity which has been tainted by numerous allegations.

Berita Harian reiterated Prime Minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi's call that local firms step up efforts to be included in the 50 fabulous companies award by Forbes magazine.

Tamil Nesan commended the government for banning the 'scratch and win' contest.