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

Both the Star and New Straits Times reported that Prime Minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi has denied speculations that he will step down from the post, reiterating his stand that he would not run away from his responsibilities.

The Star also headlined that the Selangor state government has opened investigations into allegations of massive land cheating.

Malay newspapers

Berita Harian and Utusan Malaysia led with Abdullah denying speculations that he will resign as the prime minister.

Berita Harian also reported that the ulama in Malaysia and Indonesia have called for a boycott of Dutch products as a protest to the anti-Islamic film from Netherlands.

Utusan reported that Cuepacs will boycott the two Labour Day celebrations by Human Resources Ministry if their five points demands are not meet by the government.

Tamil newspapers

The Tamil dailies also led with Abdullah’s assurance that he would not quit his post as the prime minister.

Tamil Nesan reported a call made by the MCA for the release of five Hindraf leaders presently detained under the ISA.

Makkal Osai reported a remark by MIC president S Samy Vellu that he was rejected by the people from whom he had worked hard for.

Editorial

Responding to the new Pakatan Rakyat, New Straits Times said the Islamic state issue still remains an unsolved issue although PAS has not played it up during the elections. The daily also said that the leaders in the alliance should declare their common stand on Islamic state and hudud laws.

Berita Harian said the new Pakatan Rakyat must work together to form a common principles to ensure their new coalition state government perform better.

Utusan Malaysia said the Malaysian move to boycott Dutch products was necessary to pressure the Netherlands not to play with sensitive religious issues.